IBOM Herald, Uyo (2026)

20/08/2026

THE ALL NATIONS CHRISTIAN MINISTRY INTERNATIONAL AT 22: IMPACTING LIVES, WINNING SOULS TO THE KINGDOM

By Ibom Herald

We take a bend briefly from Politics, the Arise Agenda and Governance to identify with the All Nations Christian Ministry International and Her Undersheperd, His Excellency the Governor Pst Umo Eno-PhD, as the Church marks her 22nd Anniversary Celebration and annual Convention.

"And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the LORD's house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it"

_Isaiah 2:2 KJV_

Back in 2003, this writer resided at No. 1 Ibok Street off Edem Udo Street, Eket and by 2004, a Church building by the Royalty Hotel Along Edem Udo Street had added to the landmarks along the road. The Church had flags of many Nations hoisted on its frontage.

A new Ministry was birthed 22 years ago.
Today, Isaiah 2:2 had since backed up the hoisting of the flags of many Nations.

The All Nations Christian Ministry International (ANCMI), with headquarters in Eket, Akwa Ibom State, stands today as a kingdom-focused assembly under the undershepherdship of Pastor Umo Bassey Eno (as he then was) now His Excellency Pst Umo Eno-PhD, the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State. Marking 22 years since its founding. The Ministry embodies a vision of building a community of Christian believers that transcends race, tribe, colour, tradition, and denominational barriers.

The Undersheperd's spiritual journey began long before the formal establishment of ANCMI. Born some six decades ago, he grew up in the environment of The Apostolic Church, Maboju Assembly in Lagos (LAWNA Territory). He was among the pioneer members, serving as a choir boy, church interpreter (noted for his fluency in Yoruba), member of the evangelical team, chairman of the building committee, and initiator of welfare efforts. He was ordained a deacon as a bachelor in 1985. Prophecies concerning his future leadership, including governorship, were reported in prayer meetings and services there from as early as 1980, with further confirmations into the mid-1990s. His mother, Deaconess Eka Bassey Umo Eno, was also deeply involved in the church’s prayer groups.

In the mid-1990s, the Founder of this Ministry relocated to Eket to establish his Private business, Royalty Hotels & Recreations Ltd which began modestly in 1997. The formal founding of All Nations Christian Ministry International followed in 2004 in Eket. The name itself drew inspiration from a prophecy received years earlier at Maboju around 1983. linked to Isaiah 2:2, which speaks of all nations flowing to the mountain of the Lord’s house; her Excellency Pastor (Mrs.) Patience Umo Eno who has gone to be with the Lord , played a pivotal role in affirming and recording this direction for the Ministry’s identity.

The early years centred on establishing a Bible-believing, non-discriminatory fellowship at its worship centre, 2 Edem Udo Street, Eket. The founder was ordained as an apostle and serving as Undershepherd, had combined pastoral leadership with his entrepreneurial and later public-service calling. His late wife, Pastor (Mrs.) Patience Umo Eno, was ordained a pastor in the ministry, served as First Lady of All Nations, Women’s Leader, and Advisor for the Women of Faith Fellowship, organising prayers, skills programmes, and support for members. The Ministry’s community arm, Bridge of Hope, has extended practical help—medical support, housing, youth empowerment, and aid to widows and the vulnerable—reflecting the founder’s longstanding philanthropy that predated his political journey and acts of humanity as the Governor of Akwa Ibom State.

His Spiritual father, Pastor Simeon Afolabi, Founder and Serving Overseer of Firstlove Assembly, with over 30 years in ministry, author of devotionals and books, and known for restoration-focused teaching, has been a consistent spiritual voice associated with ANCMI. He had ministered at the church’s Discovery Conventions including the 21st anniversary in 2025 and earlier editions, emphasising dependence on God, the word of God over human opinion, and prayerful stewardship of leadership. His presence underscores a broader relational network of ministers supporting the work.

The Governor's spiritual mother, Bishop (Dr) Enobong Essien had also featured in ANCMI programmes, including preaching at the 2024 Discovery Convention on themes such as “The Gift of Men,” sharing scriptural insights and personal experiences of divine provision and protection. Such guest ministers have contributed to the spiritual nourishment and mentoring atmosphere around the founder and the congregation.

From its Eket base, ANCMI has grown both spiritually and numerically. With thousands of members across various assemblies in Akwa Ibom State and beyond. Mission fields and outreaches had been established in other locations such as Onna field which was dedicated in August 3rd 2025, others fields in Ibeno, Ikot Abasi, Idung Iniang, and Uyo had since been established .

The Church's annual Discovery Conventions and anniversary celebrations continue to draw worshippers for teaching, worship, and empowerment. The Presiding Pastor, Pastor Ndaeyo Udomfuk, handles day-to-day pastoral oversight while the Undershepherd maintains the overarching vision.

Spiritually, the ministry emphasises kingdom principles, the authority of Scripture frequently referencing the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19, practical faith, and service. Numerically and organisationally, it has expanded from a local fellowship into a multi-assembly presence with community impact through Bridge of Hope and related welfare initiatives. Pastor Umo Eno’s public role as Governor has not diminished the church’s identity; he continues to participate in services, conventions, and dedications, framing leadership as an extension of undershepherd responsibility.

The Church has been consistent in her Annual convention and anniversary Celebrations, recent convention themes were :

2016- 12th Anniversary Discovery Convention: More than Conquerors , Romans 8:35-39

2023- 19th Anniversary: “Rebuilding the Tabernacle of David”
Scripture: Acts 15:16

2024- 20th Anniversary: “The Gift of Men” 1st Chronicles 12:22( AMP)

2025- 21st Anniversary: “They Are Men, Not God”
Scripture: Isaiah 45:5 / Numbers 23:13–26

At 22 years, All Nations Christian Ministry International stands as a testimony to steady growth rooted in early prophetic direction, faithful pastoral labour, and relational spiritual covering. From the foundations laid in Lagos prayer meetings and the pioneering steps in Eket, it has developed into a kingdom-focused community that continues to raise believers while serving its wider society. The journey of its Undershepherd, from choir boy and deacon to apostle, entrepreneur, and Governor, illustrates the intertwining of personal calling, church planting, and public service under divine guidance.

As the Church marks 22 Years and her 2026 Anniversary and Convention with the theme “The God of All Possibilities” with Scripture text from
Jeremiah 32:27, what started two decades ago is today impacting lives and harvesting souls to the Kingdom of God.

The Lord's Kitchen continues to carry out the great Commission as Commanded by our Lord Jesus Christ.

To God be the glory, Happy 2026 Church Anniversary!

20/08/2026

APPRECIATION SERIES 050- THE ARISE AGENDA'S SAFETY OFFICER

By | Anietie Umana

It all started on June 11 2026 with Series 001 that spotlighted the SSG, so far, we have done 49 Series covering almost all the members of the State Executive Council, Personal Aides to the Governor, Chairmen of Boards and Parastatals etc, the idea was a personal way of appreciating His Excellency the Governor's appointees whom were all appointed at the pleasure of the Governor, and have thus far, added value to the Arise Agenda and have all served His Excellency and the State well.

We have been encouraged and also appreciated in return, it was worth the while, as we wrap up the Series with this
50th piece, we celebrate his Excellency's return from a fruitful official engagement abroad on one hand.

On the other hand, we appreciate one of the SSA to the Governor for her role in the Arise Agenda of His Excellency, as he delivers on his campaign promises.

His Excellency the Governor, Pst Umo Eno-PhD, returned from an oversees engagement yesterday 18th August 2026, while in Canada, he had conducted the pre-delivery inspection of Ibom Air’s latest brand-new Airbus A220-300 aircraft and toured the Airbus production facility in Mirabel, Quebec, Canada.

Also while In Montreal, Canada, his Excellency the Governor met with Mr. Constant van Schaik, CEO of SAMCO Aviation Services, and representatives of Airbus as he works to bring the Aircraft Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility at the Victor Attah International Airport into full operation and further strengthen Ibom Air.

The Governor's trip centered on Air transportation, if there is any place where safety is given premium attention, it is in the aircraft and Airport. Firefighting equipment, personnel and other safety measures are usually put on ground when an Aircraft is about to take off or land.

_"We are committed to interpreting the Governor's vision by ensuring that safety is everyone's responsibility. We will train and retrain our newly recruited safety officers with the skills needed to protect not only our infrastructure but also the lives of every Akwa Ibomites,"_

The statement above was made by this Worship minister on December 21st, 2025, while speaking at Comfort FM's program "ARISE Akwa Ibom" with the Past National Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Safety Engineers, Prof. Akan Ekong.

Professionally, She is an OSHA-certified and NEBOSH-certified Occupational Safety and Health Professional.

Academically She holds a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) from the University of Findlay, Ohio.

She is registered as an international member of the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE).

Mrs Jayne Ufot, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Health, Safety and Environment—an office whose responsibilities speak directly to human and material safety has actively led regulatory operations that included;

Overseeing the health and safety compliance, and spearheading safety audits across critical public infrastructure, such as the Victor Attah International Airport and other Government facilities.

She has institutionalised several health, safety, and environmental (HSE) initiatives aimed at establishing Akwa Ibom as a "safety-first" state. Under Governor Umo Eno’s administration, these policies are designed to move safety from mere policy statements into a measurable workplace culture.

Specifically, she has facilitated the establishment of a dedicated Department of Occupational Safety within the civil service. This department standardises workplace safety and is spearheaded by a Permanent Secretary.

Through the implementation of Establishment Circular No. 1, Akwa Ibom State, formalized the federal policy on the Occupational Safety Officers Cadre, creating direct paths for professional safety employment in government.

Her office led rigorous, structured safety reviews across all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). These audits assessed infrastructure compliance gaps, with individual risk reports delivered directly to State Commissioners and the Governor to safeguard public servants.

Through her, Government has enforced strict safety protocols for infrastructure projects. Construction firms operating in the state are required to adopt mandatory safety frameworks, explicitly forbidding sub-standard materials (like uncertified scaffolding) to eliminate preventable hazards.

Over 100 safety officers were recruited, together with legal professionals they had undergone specialized training to enforce safety codes at construction sites, public buildings, hotels, and schools.

Her office actively drives a "school-to-school" outreach campaign. This includes establishing dedicated Safety Clubs in technical colleges and secondary schools to foster risk awareness from an early age.

The importance of health, safety and environmental responsibility will only continue to grow as Akwa Ibom expands its infrastructure, industrial activities, aviation facilities, agricultural investments, tourism assets and other areas of economic development.

Aside safety, she has a passion for singing, she has a call in the gospel music ministry, she recently organized the maiden edition of "Worship with Jayne" music concert, a spiritual gathering that brought some gospel music artist together, the event took place on Friday, June 26, 2026.

To the Governor's Senior Special Assistant on Health, Safety and Environment, Mrs Jayne Ufot, thank you for your service to Akwa Ibom State.

Take your Flowers!

PhotoCredit: Official page, Office of the SSA on Safety, Health and Environment.

17/08/2026

APPRECIATION SERIES 049- THE GOVERNOR'S CITY PLANNER

By | Anietie Umana

"We will not allow encroachments to derail the State development plan. Private development must not be allowed to block public access to government facilities".

_His Excellency the Governor issued this directive on the 14th of August 2025 directing the Uyo Capital City Development Authority (UCCDA) to clear illegal structures around the Tropicana Complex_

1st November 2023 may as well go down in the history of his Excellency's first term as the date he appointed the second largest batch of personal aides and made one key Appointment, the first and highest batch had been the appointment of 368 Ward PAs earlier on 1st October 2023.

On the aforementioned date, the Secretary to Government conveyed his Excellency's approval for the appointment of 37 Youth and 50 Media Aides. Another Press Release was issued same day, this time only one Appointment was made, and it was this astute Politician that got a new job. Recently the writer met him at his residence, such a jolly good fellow who "landed" well.

Himself a one time Councilor and Leader of the Uyo legislative Council at the time, appointed 25 aides to serve under his office. He was Chairman South-South Councilors forum and was a key stakeholder in the Nigerian Councilors forum between 2008-2011.

Again, as the Member representing Uyo State Constituency, he appointed 35 Aides as a reward for their support which saw him win the election to the House of Assembly in 2019 under the campaign Mantra, "Jesus Project". He served between 2019-2023. He was Chairman House Committee on NDDC.

He had served briefly as Honorary Special Adviser to his Excellency the Governor on Agriculture before he got a higher calling.

An indigene of Etoi Clan in Uyo Local Government Area, he began learning the ropes of politics as Chief of Staff to a one time Chairman of Uyo LGA, Hon. Chris Udofia in 2003. Since then, his trajectory has been that of service to the people as a Public Servant.

The spotlight falls on Rt. Hon. Anietie Eka, the Executive Chairman of the Uyo Capital City Development Authority (UCCDA), a seasoned grassroots politician, former Uyo Council legislator and former State legislator whose stewardship is currently helping to redefine the landscape of Uyo as one of Nigeria's beautiful/cleanest and fastest-growing State capitals.

Since assuming office as Executive Chairman of the Uyo Capital City Development Authority, he has approached the assignment with determination, discipline and a clear understanding of Governor Umo Eno's vision of building a modern, orderly and investor-friendly capital city.

His stewardship at the UCCDA has been driven by one overriding objective—to consolidate on urban development where his predecessor had left, while preserving the beauty and master plan of Uyo.

Recognising the dangers posed by illegal structures, indiscriminate trading and unauthorized developments, the Authority under his leadership has embarked on sustained enforcement exercises aimed at restoring order across the metropolis. Illegal structures erected on government land, under high-tension power lines, within designated green areas and along major road corridors have been removed in line with the City's master plan.

Under his leadership, UCCDA has intensified efforts to reclaim public spaces, restore green areas and improve environmental sustainability, while encouraging developers to comply with approved building standards before commencing construction.

Perhaps one of the boldest interventions under his watch was the removal of the notorious illegal scrap market and criminal hideout at Nung Oku, Ibesikpo. For years, residents had complained that the area had become a haven for criminal activities and environmental degradation. Under his supervision, the Authority reclaimed the site, restoring security and order in line with the Governor's vision for a cleaner and safer capital city.

Another defining achievement of his administration has been the restoration of aesthetics at the iconic Ibom Plaza.
Once threatened by indiscriminate street trading, congestion and activities inconsistent with its status as the heart of the capital city, the Plaza has witnessed remarkable improvements through coordinated enforcement and urban management initiatives. He has consistently maintained that Ibom Plaza should reflect the pride, beauty and identity of Akwa Ibom State as the gateway to the capital.

As you enter the capital city from Ikot Ekpene or Itu, both gateways to the City, his signatures are written and splashed in form of paintings and decor on the Flyover pillars and concrete works, under the flyover is now a Serene relaxation spot where citizens sit and relax in an atmosphere of calm and comfort.

His contribution became even more evident during the remodelling and reopening of the Ibom Plaza. Working in line with the vision of the Governor, the project introduced modern features including enhanced security facilities, solar-powered lighting, public entertainment infrastructure and art galleries that celebrate the rich history and culture of Akwa Ibom State. The Governor publicly commended him and his team for delivering the project within schedule, describing it as an important component of the State's urban renewal and tourism agenda.

Urban renewal often requires difficult decisions that may not be immediately popular, but he has consistently demonstrated the courage and resolve to place the long-term interest of the city above temporary conveniences. His insistence that Uyo must remain orderly, beautiful and investment-friendly reflects a leader who understands that sustainable development demands discipline as much as vision.

His leadership style is equally defined by accessibility, teamwork and results. He has encouraged collaboration between UCCDA, security agencies, private organisations and community stakeholders in advancing the Governor's vision for a world-class capital city. One example is his engagement with private-sector partners to promote sustainable urban development and investment in Uyo.

Every successful administration requires dedicated public servants willing to translate vision into visible results.
For his Excellency the Governor, Rt. Hon. Anietie Eka has proven to be one of those dependable hands.

Through decisive urban renewal initiatives, environmental sanitation, development control and the restoration of key public spaces, he has contributed significantly to making Uyo beautiful, safer, more attractive and better prepared for future growth.

As this Appreciation Series continues to celebrate men and women whose dedication has contributed to the success of the ARISE Agenda, Rt. Hon. Anietie Eka stands tall as a shining example of disciplined leadership, courage, administrative competence and unwavering commitment to public service.

To The Governor's City Planner, the Executive Chairman of the Uyo Capital City Development Authority, Rt. Hon. Anietie Eka, Ibom Herald celebrates your passion for restoring order, beautifying the State Capital and supporting His Excellency's vision of a modern, secure and well planned Capital City

Take Your Flowers!

07/05/2026

WHAT UMO ENO CANNOT DO DOES NOT EXIST IN THE ARISE AGENDA: THE ROAD TO 2027

| BY ANIETIE UMANA

“When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice.” This wisdom finds contemporary relevance in Akwa Ibom State, where the administration of His Excellency Pst Umo Eno-PhD has, in just three years, has redefined governance through a deliberate, people-focused development blueprint encapsulated in the ARISE Agenda.

Ab initio, the ARISE Agenda was not designed as just a mere policy framework, but as a comprehensive social contract—one that touches every layer of society and addresses human Capital development and provision of basic infrastructure. Today, the evidence across the state suggest that His Excellency the Governor has not only identified the critical levers of development but has also acted decisively to address them.

At the core of his governance model is a clear understanding: development must be holistic. Under Governor Eno, Akwa Ibom has witnessed a strategic blend of infrastructure expansion, human capital development, economic empowerment, and above all, the Governor has achieved Peace like never before witnessed in the State's history, the Governor has created a peaceful atmosphere where we have an Akwa Ibom United, where the Political tention hitherto experienced during political seasons like we have now, have been neutralized.

One of the most visible hallmarks of this administration is its aggressive infrastructure drive. Roads are being constructed and rehabilitated across urban and rural communities, bridging long-standing connectivity gaps and opening up economic corridors. These projects are not isolated interventions; they are part of a broader vision to stimulate commerce, ease transportation, and improve quality of life. There are several minor and major road construction contracts that are ongoing, commissioned and more are being awarded across the State

The upgrade of the Victor Attah International Airport to full international status and on Saturday the 2nd of May 2026 the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace development together with His Excellency the Governor boarded an Ibom Air flight to Ghana and that flight signaled the commencement of International flights in Akwa Ibom's Victor Attah Airport.

This milestone achievement is poised to reposition Akwa Ibom as a regional hub for business, tourism, and global connectivity. By expanding the state’s access to international markets, the administration is laying a foundation for sustained economic growth and investment inflows.

The ARISE Agenda also places strong emphasis on human capital development. Through targeted programs in education, healthcare, and skills acquisition, the government is investing in its greatest asset—its people. From scholarships and training initiatives to improved healthcare delivery systems, the administration is equipping citizens with the tools needed to thrive in the competitive world.

In the agricultural sector, deliberate policies are reviving farming as a viable economic activity. Farmers are being supported with inputs, training, and access to markets, thereby strengthening food security while creating employment opportunities. This renewed focus on agriculture aligns with the broader goal of diversifying the state’s economy beyond oil dependence. The Ibom model farms is poised to harness and revolutionize the agricultural sector, just last week, His Excellency the Governor commissioned the Ibom Equipment and leasing company, this Company will no doubt aid the Production of food in the state.

The administration’s commitment to social welfare is also evident. Various empowerment schemes amounting to a whooping Ten Billion Naira have been rolled out to support small businesses, artisans, and vulnerable groups. These initiatives are not only reducing poverty but also fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and self-reliance.

Perhaps one of the most remarkable aspects of Governor Eno’s stewardship is fiscal discipline. In an era where many subnational governments rely heavily on borrowing, Akwa Ibom has charted a different course. The ex*****on of numerous capital-intensive projects without resorting to bank loans speaks volumes about prudent financial management, efficient resource allocation, and a commitment to sustaining that fiscal discipline throughout his Administration.

This approach ensures that future Administrations are not burdened with unsustainable debt, while still enjoying the dividends of present-day development. It is a governance style that underscores the possibility of achieving ambitious goals within available means when leadership is guided by vision and discipline.

The ARISE Agenda also reflects a governance philosophy anchored on inclusivity and accountability. By engaging stakeholders across sectors and communities, the administration has fostered a sense of ownership among the people. Development, in this context, is not imposed—it is shared.

As the state looks toward 2027, the trajectory is clear. The first term has laid a solid foundation, marked by impactful policies such as the Arise Health Insurance scheme where the Elderly receive free medical care, transformative programs, and landmark projects such as the World Class Arise Palm Resort, The development of the Oron Maritime Corridor, the 350 bed World Class Ibom international Hospital, the 5000 capacity Ibom Convention center, State of the art Security and command Center, the Arise model Health Centers across the 31 Local Government Areas, the Arise model Primary schools, the Arise Compassionate Homes, The Judges Quarters, the Commissioners quarters, Ibom luxury Estate, the Arise Elderly Citizens Centre etc.

Other silent achievements include; payment of over 82BN backlog of gratuities arrears paid to civil servants dating back to previous Administrations, payment of the 13 Month Salary, Payment of Bursaries and Waec Exams fees just to mention a few.

The expectation for a second term is not merely continuity, but consolidation and expansion as more people oriented programs and Projects will see the light of day as His Excellency, Governor Umo Eno is poised to complete all ongoing projects while initiating new ones that will further deepen the state’s developmental drive. The vision is dynamic, evolving with the needs of the people, yet firmly rooted in the principles that have defined the administration so far.

Indeed, the unfolding story of Akwa Ibom under the ARISE Agenda reinforces a bold assertion: when leadership is purposeful and governance is people-centered, the boundaries of possibility expand. In such a context, it becomes increasingly plausible to say—without exaggeration—that what Umo Eno cannot do may well not exist within the scope of the ARISE Agenda as every strata of development had been achieve to the exclusion of what is not needed by the people

For the people of Akwa Ibom, the journey continues—driven by hope, sustained by action, and guided by a leadership committed to leaving no sector untouched and no citizen behind.

Governor Umo Eno-PhD is Working..

12/04/2026

AKWA IBOM'S ROAD TO ECONOMIC PROSPERITY: THE LETTER "E" IN THE ARISE AGENDA.

| By ANIETIE UMANA

Economy can easily be defined as "the structure or conditions of economic life in a country, area, or period"

This concluding series on the ABC of the letters of the ARISE AGENDA seeks to x-ray the economy vis-a-vis the ARISE AGENDA.

At the heart of the development philosophy of His Excellency the Governor, Pst. Umo Eno-PhD in Akwa Ibom State lies a bold and transformative pillar “E” (Economic/Industrial Advancement and Wealth Creation) in the ARISE Agenda.

This pillar is not merely an economic framework; it is a strategic blueprint for prosperity, designed to empower citizens, stimulate enterprise, industrialize the state, and ultimately create a strong socio-economic base that will shape political outcomes heading into the 2027 elections.

The “E” component seeks to restructure the economic architecture of Akwa Ibom State by:

Transitioning from a salary-dependent economy to a production and enterprise-driven economy, Creating wealth at the grassroots level, Positioning the state as a regional hub for investment, tourism, and agro-industrialization, Building a resilient middle class.

CORE POLICY FRAMEWORKS UNDER THE “E” includes :

MSME DEVELOPMENT & ENTREPRENEURSHIP POLICY which guarantees Access to finance through grants and soft support, Enterprise formalization and mentorship, Promotion of cooperative financing systems

AGRICULTURAL ECONOMY & RURAL WEALTH POLICY which has boosted Value chain development in cassava, rice, palm oil, fisheries, Mechanized farming systems, Rural economic hubs and farm estates

INDUSTRIALIZATION & INVESTMENT PROMOTION POLICY creates; Incentives for investors and manufacturers, Promotion of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) which will lead to Reactivation of dormant state industries

TOURISM, HOSPITALITY & CREATIVE POLICY which brings about Monetization of culture, festivals, and heritage during the December Christmas Unplugged, Expansion of hospitality infrastructure, Branding the state as a tourism destination.

YOUTH EMPLOYMENT & DIGITAL ECONOMY POLICY; Skills-to-income programs, ICT training and outsourcing opportunities, Startup incubation and innovation hubs.

The Economic blueprint of his Excellency the Governor, has achieved much gains and has improved the Economy of the State. For example , internally Generated Revenue of the State has seen steady increments from ₦2 billion to ₦7 billion following the implementation of the Treasury Single Account (TSA) policy. This Courageous move by the Governor is part of efforts to strengthen the state’s financial independence and fund development projects.
The adoption of the Treasury Single Account (TSA) is credited with this rapid revenue growth, allowing better tracking and collection of funds.
The goal of the revenue increase is focused on funding the state's budget and supporting infrastructure development. Recent reports suggest robust economic performance and increased revenue.

This has led to significant strides in the development of the state's economy.

KEY PROJECTS & PROGRAMS UNDER THE “E” in the ARISE AGENDA;

MSME & ENTERPRISE EMPOWERMENT- ARISE MSME Grant Scheme, Direct financial grants to traders, artisans, and startups, Focus on women and youth-led businesses

ARISE Equipment Support Programme- Distribution of tools to small-scale entrepreneurs which has Boost productivity and reduces startup barriers.

Cooperative & Microfinance Strengthening Initiative- Expansion of cooperative societies to all the 369 Wards of the State that will leas to Grassroots wealth pooling and credit access

AGRICULTURE & AGRO-INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT; ARISE Farm Programme, Provision of inputs, seedlings, and extension services, Support for large-scale and smallholder farmers. The establishment of the Ibom Model Farms will no doubt boost food production and scale up the revenue base of the state . Other Demonstration farms across local governments will complement the IBOM model farms.
Training, employment, and productivity hubs will aid Agro-Processing Facilities, Cassava processing plants, Rice mills, Palm oil refining facilities and Reduction in post-harvest losses.

Another sector capable of boosting the Economy of the State is through TOURISM, HOSPITALITY & CREATIVE INDUSTRY, under this sector, the State has been well positioned through the ARISE Tourism Development Programme , under this initiative, Upgrade of tourist sites and attractions, Promotion of cultural festivals, Hospitality Sector Expansion, Support for hotels and resorts, Capacity building for service providers, Creative Industry Growth, Film, music, arts, and fashion promotion are all targeted as drivers in this area of the State's Economy.

Youth play a critical role in development of our economy, and so His Excellency the Governor has initiated various youth programs al geared toward building the economy and to make the youth self reliant. There are various youth programs which includes; ARISE Youth Employment Scheme, Job creation across sectors, Digital Skills & ICT Empowerment, Training in tech, freelancing, and remote work, Startup & Innovation Support, Incubation hubs for tech entrepreneurs through the Youth friendly Centres across the State.

The Governor has done much in Investment Promotion & building the Business Climate in the State. This he has achieved through; Investment Summits, Attracting local and foreign investors, Ease of Doing Business Reforms, Faster approvals and reduced red tape, Diaspora Investment Drive and Engaging Akwa Ibom indigenes abroad..

There has been gains & Achievements Since the inauguration of his Excellency the Governor, Pst Umo Eno in 2023,

The “E” pillar has recorded measurable progress: Thousands of small businesses supported, Increased entrepreneurial activity across urban and rural areas,
Direct jobs through empowerment programs, Indirect jobs via agriculture, construction, and services
Boost in local food production, Expansion of agro-processing value chains, Reduction in rural poverty.

The Economy thrives on activities that generate income , as so one way of ensuring that is though the Budget, the
Governor signed the 2026 Akwa Ibom State Budget, titled "The People's Budget of Expansion and Growth," into law with a total of ₦1.584 trillion. The budget prioritizes infrastructure and economic growth, allocating 76% (₦1.168 trillion) to capital expenditure and 24% (₦416.6 billion) to recurrent expenses.
Key Details of the 2026 Budget:
Total Budget Size: ₦1.584 Trillion.
Capital Expenditure: ₦1.168 Trillion (approx. 76%).
Recurrent Expenditure: ₦416.6 Billion (approx. 24%).
Key Focus Areas: Infrastructure (roads and bridges), agriculture, education, and health.
Key Projects: Development of rural infrastructure, strengthening food security, and investment in human capital.

With the total implementation of the budget, the State will continue to consolidate and record significant gains in the economy which will lead to the general prosperity for her citizens.

The “E” in the ARISE Agenda represents the practical pathway to prosperity in Akwa Ibom State. It is a huge deliberate, structured, and inclusive approach to wealth creation that touches every segment of society—from farmers and traders to tech entrepreneurs and investors.

As implementation deepens, this pillar is poised to Entrench sustainable development, Build a resilient economy.

Ultimately, the success of this economic blueprint will determine not just the prosperity of the people, but also the enduring legacy of the administration.

We call on all well meaning citizens of Akwa IBOM state to support His Excellency the Governor for a Second term by voting for him during the Elections in February 2027.

IBOM Herald

20/08/2026

20/08/2026

17/08/2026

07/05/2026

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