AkwaibomTv, Uyo (2025)

21/06/2025

‼️NEWS ROUND‼️

*God Has Sent Me On For the Good of A”ibom , Says Governor Umo Eno*

…*Reaffirms Commitment to ARISE Agenda at Government House Prayer Meeting*

🎈Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the ARISE Agenda, declaring that his steps are divinely ordered and guided by enlightened state interest.

🎈Speaking on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at the monthly Government House Prayer Meeting held at the Latter House Chapel, an emotion-laden Governor Eno thanked the State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who was present at the service, and declared: “God has sent me ahead.”

🎈The Governor officially pronounced the ARISE Agenda as the singular and official blueprint of his administration, with the ARISE uniform as its symbol of unity and purpose.

🎈Governor Eno emphasized his administration’s resolve to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio in delivering good governance, noting that collaboration with the federal government is essential for the accelerated development of Akwa Ibom.

“There are things the State cannot do alone. We must secure the confidence of the federal government. That is enlightened state interest,” he stated.

🎈Acknowledging the weight of recent political decisions, the Governor noted that the decision was not taken lightly, as it is both emotionally charged and deeply reflective but “like the children of Issachar, we must understand the times. Leadership requires vision, courage, and timely decisions, even when they are not easy,” he said.

🎈The Governor called on church leaders to take an active interest in state affairs by offering spiritual guidance and prayer support. He stressed that “every administration is for a purpose,” and urged the people to move forward in unity.

“We need to create more opportunities for our people in the bigger Nigerian space. Let’s not be stuck in one spot, running around the teacup. I know where I am going, and God will see us through to success.”

🎈He concluded by affirming that his administration will continue its programmes and projects under the ARISE Agenda without distraction, urging Akwa Ibomites to support the journey ahead.

“I respect people who make decisions, and I ask that my own decisions also be respected. If we align and realign rightly, we will get what we need as a State,” the Governor added.

20/06/2025

USORO AKPABIO: UNVEILING THE LADY BEHIND THE GLOW

Aniekeme Finbarr

I was in the company of friends when news broke that President Tinubu had appointed a new MD for the South South Development Commission (SSDC). My friends were stunned. ‘Another Akpabio again?’ one of us screamed. The first name drew blanks, and we easily linked the surname to a prominent politician we all knew but that face looked very familiar to me. I went onto Facebook to confirm: it was the Usoro I knew. After messaging family sources to reconfirm, it was the same good old Usoro Offiong Akpabio

I allowed my friends to continue their fruitless guesses and theories. But as men, we couldn't help remarking on her striking beauty in that elegant gown. Usoro Akpabio, however, transcends mere physical beauty, she has always been a dazzling gem hidden in plain sight.

She is a proud product of the University of Calabar, armed with elite credentials from Oxford University’s Saïd Business School and Imperial College London, and forged in the high stakes crucible of global energy and government strategy.

Usoro is not just stepping into this office at the ripe age of 45, she is deploying a unique arsenal honed over 17 years at the absolute apex of complex national development. Her work has been in various roles in oil and gas trading, government relations, business development, and public-private sector collaborations. She most recently served as Group General Manager, Trading, Government and Client Relations at Century Energy Group.

I recall she was Vice President/Senior Manager Business Development, Energy, and Government Relations at Taleveras Group of Companies Ltd, where she was very effective at energy and infrastructure trading.

She has acted as a Senior Strategic Consultant to a major refinery project in Nigeria, leading operational and legislative integration efforts that helped align production strategies with government policy frameworks and regional supply agreements. Her work has included coordinating high-level engagements with the National Assembly and advancing compliance with international product standards.

Usoro Akpabio arrives not merely with a resume, but with a proven blueprint for orchestrating complex progress. Her rise follows nearly two decades mastering the intricate dance between high stakes commerce and impactful public good. She is very respectful, and a kind hearted leader.

Forget dry policy papers; Usoro Akpabio has operated where billion-dollar energy deals intersect with grassroots empowerment, where navigating legislative corridors translates directly into community upliftment.

She is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts UK ( FRSA ) and a Fellow Chartered Economist (FCE). She holds professional memberships with the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), Nigerian Gas Association (NGA), National Heritage Council and Endowment for the Arts, International Association of Safety Professionals (IASP), and African Women in Leadership Organisation (AWLO).

For me, the most electrifying aspect of her appointment is the profound humanity she brings. Usoro Akpabio’s legacy is already etched in communities through the Usoro Akpabio Educational Foundation, providing life changing surgeries, restoring access to clean water, empowering women, and offering scholarships. She has been recognized globally for her humanitarian zeal (including the African Achievers Award at the UK House of Commons), she embodies the principle that true development uplifts every citizen. This is not detached philanthropy; it is the core of her leadership philosophy.

Usoro Akpabio is a proud Uruan lady from Akwa Ibom State whose formative years were rooted in Calabar, where she attended Auntie Margaret International Nursery School and Federal Government Girls College, both in Calabar. These early experiences instilled in her a strong sense of community, discipline, and public service, values that have shaped her distinguished career.

The message is clear: The South South region of Nigeria has gained more than an administrator; it has secured a visionary architect of prosperity. She knows the way, She will hit the ground running. We have a smart lady with a smile that can disarm tension and launch development initiatives with equal ease.

Here comes our new MD with a track record of turning complex challenges into tangible successes and a heart deeply invested in the people.

✅Aniekeme Finbarr is a decorated communicator, recognized with the Prestigious Edward R Murrow Fellowship by the US Department of State.

16/06/2025

AKWA IBOM YOUTH MINISTRY TO UNVEIL ROADMAP, YOUTH POLICY FOR TARGETED EMPOWERMENT

By IfiokAbasi Okop, Victor Oton, Treasure Esop

In a bid to streamline youth-focused initiatives and ensure the effective delivery of Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Youth Development is finalising a comprehensive roadmap and a dedicated youth policy tailored to the state’s needs.

This was stated by the Commissioner for Youth Development, Dr. Ekerete Ekanem, during an interview on ARISE AKWA IBOM, a flagship radio programme from the Office of the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Ekerete Udo, aired on Comfort 95.1 FM. According to him, the youth roadmap, structured on a quarterly timeline, will serve as a measurable action plan to track and assess the Ministry’s progress and impact across the state.

Dr. Ekanem also announced that the Ministry is developing a new Akwa Ibom Youth Policy, aimed at harmonising all youth-related initiatives. He said the policy will prioritise inclusion, accountability, and sustainability, and will serve as a guide for all government interventions involving young people.

He also emphasised that over 60 percent of the beneficiaries of Governor Eno’s empowerment programmes, including agricultural grants, equipment support, and training, have been young people. Many of them, he noted, are already contributing to food production, enterprise development, and digital innovation across the state.

On data and access, the Commissioner revealed that the Ministry is working closely with the Ministry of Science and Digital Economy to build a credible youth database. To address access gaps, he disclosed that a hybrid registration model, combining online and offline channels, will be deployed to ensure that youths without digital access are not excluded.

Responding to concerns about inclusivity, Dr. Ekanem noted that the current administration is the most youth-inclusive in the state's history, with over 40 youth aides appointed across the 31 local government areas, and a deliberate effort to empower Akwa Ibom youths regardless of their political affiliation.

“This is the first time in history that a governor has appointed over 40 youth aides, as personal assistants or special assistants, drawn from various federal constituencies and local government areas. It is also the first time a governor is carrying out such open and inclusive empowerment initiatives across party lines.

The commissioner urged the youths of Akwa Ibom State to take advantage of this opportunity, make the most of the empowerment programmes provided, become gainfully employed, and continue to advocate for peace while supporting the Governor’s vision for the state.

14/06/2025

AKSG Moves to Enforce Industrial Safety, Tours GTL Pumar Facility

As part of ongoing efforts to institutionalize best practices in health, safety, and environmental management under the ARISE Agenda, the Akwa Ibom State Government has moved to enforce strict adherence to workplace safety and environmental standards across industrial operations in the state.

This commitment was demonstrated during an inspection of GTL Pumar Limited on Friday, June 13, 2025.

The company, which specializes in the production of brake pads and auto accessories, recently relocated its operations to Usung Mbat Enen Road, Ikot Edwek Itak, Ikono Local Government Area.

Leading the inspection team, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Health, Safety, and Environment, Mrs. Jayne Ufot, described the visit as part of a broader initiative to instill safety consciousness across all industrial activities in the state.

According to her, Governor Umo Eno’s priority is to ensure that workplaces across Akwa Ibom are not only productive but also safe, secure and free of hazards.

While commending GTL Pumar for complying with the directive of the Governor to relocate from their former site, she expressed concern over the absence of basic safety protocols at the new facility, stating that the current level of compliance was "zero."

"We are happy that the environment here is a lot better than where they were previously, and I commend the company for relocating as directed by the Governor.

"since this is our first visit, we are giving them room for improvement. We expect to see a more positive safety culture, a better-equipped health facility, regulated work hours, and full PPE compliance among the workers during our next visit,” she said.

Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Projects, Prof. Akaninyene Ekong acknowledged the physical improvements in the new facility compared to the old site but described the operational safety standards as “significantly low.”

He emphasized that no punitive actions would be taken yet, as the goal was to familiarize the company with the state’s expectations on compliance.

On her part, Prof. Comfort Etuk of Akwa Ibom State Infrastructural Maintenance Agency, commended GTL Pumar for employing locals in its operations while underscoring the importance of creating a safer work environment.

She lauded the Governor’s establishment of the HSE Directorate as a timely intervention to raise awareness and improve workplace safety across the state.

Responding on behalf of the company, Mr. Peter Yuan, the Marketing Manager of GTL Pumar Ltd, thanked the inspection team for their visit and assured that all observations and recommendations would be addressed as a matter of priority.

Other members of the inspection team included Engr. Solomon Eyo, Mrs. Emmanuela Ibok, Mr. Peter John, Mr. Peter Asuquo and Mr. Ekemini James.

02/05/2024

GOV UMO ENO DONATES PATROL VEHICLES TO SECURITY AGENCIES
.. Says A'Ibom not safe haven for criminals

In line with the security management aspiration of the ARISE Agenda, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has donated Toyota Hilux Trucks to security agencies in the State, to boost their operations.

This is in addition to fourteen gunboats recently donated by the Governor for the security of the waterways.

Presenting the vehicles to the State Commissioner of Police, CP Waheed Ayilara, Gov. Eno noted that it was part of government's effort at ensuring that the State is rid of criminal elements and remains one of the most peaceful and safest for its citizenry and investors.

He noted that his administration will stop at nothing to ensure that peace and security in the State is maintained.

Governor Eno hinted that the state was also setting up a Tactical Command Control Centre to enhance information sharing and synergy among the relevant agencies and thanked the service commanders for the robust relationship between the various security agencies and the state government.

He commended their diligence in carrying out changes in the command without allowing security gaps, adding, "we are determined because the primary duties of any government is to secure the lives and property of its citizenry and their welfare, we are determined to make sure we don't fail in that regard.

"We'll do anything to ensure that criminals flee Akwa Ibom shores whether it is by sea or land. We are donating these vehicles towards the realization of those goals and objectives of government and the benefit of our people.

"I had promised that I'll give whatever it takes to continue to improve security in this state. We had donated the boats and we will make sure all 14 of them are put to use. We're going to support with land vehicles and other gadgets. We're setting up a Tactical Command Control Centre in Akwa Ibom so that all the services can work together," he said.

The governor however cautioned that the vehicles were designated for security operations within Akwa Ibom State and not to be taken outside for other purposes that will thwart government's intentions for acquiring them.

Receiving the vehicles on behalf of the security agencies, the Commissioner of Police, CP Waheed Ayilara, commended the governor's genuine intentions and efforts to support security operations, assuring that the vehicles will be utilized optimally to ensure security of lives and properties in the State.

The State Commissioner for Internal Security and Waterways, Gen. Koko Essien (Retd.), in his description of the components of the vehicles, said the vehicles were fitted with state-of-the-art gadgets to ensure secured communication among the patrol teams, with base stations at the various security offices.

State Executive Council members , Leaders of thought, political stakeholders including Political Leader for Uyo Senatorial District, Senator Effiong Bob, among others witnessed the presentation.

16/04/2024

Press Release

AKWA IBOM GOVERNOR MEETS PARAMOUNT RULERS, CONSTITUTES A 7-MAN COMMITTEE OVER TRADITIONAL RULERS’ LAW

Playing his dual roles as Akwa Ibom State Governor and a reconciliation Pastor, Governor Umo Eno, this morning, hosted Paramount Rulers drawn from 29 out of the 31 local government areas of the State, to find lasting solutions to the lingering issue arising from the amended Akwa Ibom State Traditional Rulers’ Law, at the State Executive Council Chambers. The Paramount Rulers of Ibeno and Ini Local Government Areas respectively were absent on health grounds.

In an athmosphere of peace and unity, the Governor thanked the Paramount Rulers and assured them of his government’s readiness to work with them to find a lasting solution to the matter.

“ I thank you most sincerely for heeding my call. It is through your support and the support of all Akwaibomites that I was elected to this office.

“I always pray that God will help me to always do my best to satisfy the majority of Akwa Ibom people.

“I have gone to Ibibio, Annang and Oro lands to sue for peace on this issue and let me thank Barrister Ekpenyong Ntekim for accepting to cooperate with us to resolve this matter out of court.

“The position of everyone from your submissions, is that you have all agreed on the principle of rotation for the position of the President -General of Akwa Ibom State Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers.

“We won’t want to meddle into this issue involving our revered traditional fathers. That is why we are setting up a 7- man Committee drawn from this revered body to make recommendations concerning the mode or structure of the rotation and submit the conclusions to us, in two weeks.

“We will thereafter, send the recommendations to the State House of Assembly for further considerations”, the Governor said.

There was a spirit of unanimity in the Chamber on the constitution of the committee by the Governor, as expressed by the following Paramount Rulers: Edidem (Prof.) Amanam Udo, Paramount Ruler of Etim Ekpo and Owong Okon Abang, Paramount Ruler of Mbo as well as Edidem Clement Francis Ekpenyong of Ibesikpo Asutan, who all spoke in total support of the setting up of the committee, on behalf of their colleagues.

In his speech, the Chairman of the State Traditional Rulers Council, Odidem Bassey Etim Edet, thanked the Governor for the excellent manner he has handled the matter and supported the idea of a committee to look into the issue as proposed by the Governor.

Also speaking, the Oku Ibom Ibibio and President General of Akwa Ibom State Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers, His Eminence, Ntenyin Solomon Etuk, CFR, also sued for peace, emphasizing that, “we are all bound by the same cords of unity. It is not about me, it is about the unity and peace of our dear State.

“I am an in- law in Annang land, and my son is married in Udung Uko Local Government Area, in Oro land. We are all one and we must embrace peace for our State to progress”, he said, while expressing support for the committee.

In his vote of thanks, Barr. Ekpenyong Ntekim a Counsel to some Royal Father who had initially instituted a court action on the issue, described Governor Umo Eno as a man of peace.

He thanked the Governor for his ingenuity in setting up the committee and expressed his support, stating that it represents the best way to resolve the lingering issue.

This position was also echoed by the State Attorney General, Mr Uko Udom, SAN.

The members of the constituted 7-Man Committee are:

1. HRM Edidem Etim Charles Daniel Abia,FCA, Paramount Ruler of Eket - Chairman

2. HRM Edidem (Dr.) Edet Akpan Inyang, Paramount Ruler of Itu- Member

3. Edidem(Prof.) Amanam Akpanudo Uko, Paramount Ruler of Etim Ekpo, Member

4. HRM Akuku Okon Udo Ukut, Paramount Ruler of Ikot Ekpene LGA, Member

5. HRM Owong Okon Asukwo Abang, Paramount Ruler of Mbo LGA, Member

6. HRM Edidem Ita Edet Okokon, Paramount Ruler of Okobo LGA, Member

7. HRM Okuku (Dr.) Ime Udousoro Inyang,JP, Paramount Ruler of Ibiono Ibom LGA, Member; while Dr.Emmanuel Umontuen, Secretary, Akwa Ibom Traditional Rulers Council, wil function as the Committee Secretary

Others present at the meeting were the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Udeme Otong, the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, Director General of Government Business, Chief Assam Assam,SAN, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Frank Archibong, and the Political Adviser to the Governor, Prince ( Dr.) Godwin Ntukudeh.

Ekerete Udoh
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
April 16, 2024

15/04/2024

GOVERNOR ENO PAYS TRIBUTE TO LATE ABIA UTIBEUNE...tasks family on sustenance of patriach's legacies

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has described the late Elder Abia Uttipbeune Abia, 79, as an embodiment of the Christian virtues of love, peace and bridge building across communities, as he condoled with the bereaved family over his demise.

The governor expressed the condolences on behalf of the government and people of Akwa Ibom State while speaking at the funeral in honour of the deceased at Salvation Army Primary School, Edo, Esit Eket Local Government Area over the weekend.

Governor Eno described the deceased as a man of high moral standards, known for his virtues of justice and equity and urged members of the family to be consoled by the good impresion he left behind.

He assured the widow of the deceased, Deaconess Rebecca Abia and other members of the family of the continuous comfort and support of the local church and people of the state whom the departed Elder had impacted, as he recalled the counsel and prayers the late Elder offered for him to succeed during the 2023 electioneering, describing his presence at the funeral as a testimony to fulfilment and answered prayers.

The Governor further acknowledged the life of purpose, contentment and advancement of common humanity led by the Oniok Edo patriach in the 79 years of his sojourn on earth and prayed that God receives his soul and grants him a befitting rest as he goes home, while urged his survivors to endeavour to sustain the legacy of their father by emulating his godly and sound moral dispositions.

In his words, "We thank God that Ete has lived to the ripe old age of 79 and on behalf of the government and people of Akwa Ibom State, I stand here to register our condolences on the passing of our father.

"He was an embodiment of peace, love, Christian virtues and a bridge builder in this community. I've met him a few times and his disposition has always been that of peace.

“So we're here to celebrate his life, a life of purpose, contentment and advancement of common humanity".

In a message of appreciation on behalf of the family, son of the deceased, Mr. Elvis Utibe Abia, thanked God for honouring the event with a fair weather and such a large gathering of witnesses, particularly describing the governor's presence at the event, despite his busy schedule, as an honour the family will never take for granted.

15/04/2024

Press Release

REMAINS OF LATE NOLLYWOOD MAKE-UP ARTIST ARRIVE AKWA IBOM FOR INTERMENT

Following the condolence visit to the family of the late Nollywood make- up artist, Abigail Edith Frederick by His Excellency, Governor Umo Eno, over the weekend, where he promised to help facilitate the return of the remains of the late make- up artist, her body has been successfully brought back home for a proper burial later today, by the family.

Governor Eno, had during the visit to the family in Ikot Udoma, Eket Local Government Area, offered automatic employment to the elder sister of the late Theatre Arts graduate, promised assistance to her two undergraduate sisters, and approved the remodeling of her family house in Eket.

May her soul rest in perfect peace.

Ekerete Udoh
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
April 15, 2024

14/04/2024

GOVERNOR ENO JOINS ABEL DAMINA TO CELEBRATE DAUGHTER’S MARRIAGE

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has urged couples to embody godliness and allow ample time for integration as they enter into the institution of marriage.

Governor Eno delivered this message while addressing guests at the marriage ceremony between Jesimiel Damina, daughter of the prominent Uyo-based preacher Pastor Abel Damina, and her heartthrob, Salem Ibrahim from Nasarawa State.

The Governor congratulated the couple and their families for marrying early and emphasized the importance of growing together by experiencing disagreements, making mistakes, correcting them, and understanding each other better throughout the journey.

Stressing modesty in managing gender-based roles, Governor Eno advised the bride to be diligent in reflecting the high moral and religious values she represents in her marriage, while urging the groom to avoid any tendencies of domestic violence.

He shared, “For the bride and groom, this is an opportune time to wed. Many wait until they have everything, but I believe your spouse from youth is your best companion. You evolve together, learn from mistakes, and resolve issues without resorting to physical altercations because any man who lays hands on his wife is, in my view, behaving like an animal.”

“Additionally, anyone nurtured in Pastor Abel Damina’s teachings will create a good home. You, as his biological daughter, bear a significant responsibility. The world has high expectations of you, and I trust God will empower you to uphold his name and all it signifies,” Governor Eno added.

He expressed gratitude to Pastor Damina and other Christian leaders for their support during the 2023 Governorship election, acknowledging Pastor Damina as a trusted supporter.

“I am immensely grateful for your contributions, publicly acknowledging the counsel and advice you provide quietly yet effectively. It is a remarkable quality, and I thank you,” Governor Eno expressed.

During a sermon titled “The Love of God” based on John 3:16, The General Overseer of the Redeemed Evangelical Mission, Bishop Mike Okonkwo, stressed that if Christians embody God’s love, there would be no contest over submission among couples, as those who experience such love are willing to sacrifice anything for it.

He described God’s love as not contingent on actions or deservingness but as unwavering, irrevocable, immeasurable, irresistible, and non-transactional, with boundless mercy and forgiveness.

The highpoint of the event was the solemnization of the holy matrimony and the declaration of Jesimiel Damina and Salem Ibrahim as husband and wife by Bishop Okonkwo, following declarations of commitment led by Bishop Fred Addo of the International Praise Cathedral, Kaduna State, Nigeria.

13/04/2024

Press Release

GOV ENO VISITS FAMILY OF LATE NOLLYWOOD MAKE-UP ARTIST

…offers automatic employment to elder sister
…directs renovation of family house
…promises assistance to the undergraduate sisters

Living to his billing as the epitome of compassion, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, on arrival from an official engagement in Abuja, this afternoon drove straight to the family compound of the late Nollywood make- up artist. Abigail Edith Frederick, in Ikot Udoma, Eket Local Government Area, where he consoled the bereaved family.

Showing deep emotions, Governor Eno, sat with the grieving family members and told them he feels their pain.

“This is deeply unfortunate, a young girl, 24 years old, who, finished her Youth Service just last year, and decided to pursue her passion.

“This is a reflection of our Arise spirit. It shows that our young people are willing to go out there, not begging, not waiting for handouts, but to pursue their passions.

“It is sad and unfortunate that her life ended the way it did.

“Once I was fully briefed, I decided to come here personally with the full complement of Government to console and encourage the family.

“You are not just the Governor when people are celebrating. In times and moments like this, you become the Mourner- in-Chief and give them hope.

“I trust the Holy Spirit will perfect the hope in their lives.

“Coming here means we care. You know Akwa Ibomites are like Americans. We don’t leave each other behind. Government will be with the family and support them.”

The Governor thereafter gave an automatic employment in the State Civil Service to the surviving elder sister of the deceased, and directed the SSA on Humanitarian Services, Umo Ekpo to renovate the family house and bring it to modern standards.

The Governor also assured of Government’s assistance to the two sisters of the bereaved who are undergraduates at the University of Uyo, said to be sponsored by the late Nollywood make- up artist.

Ekerete Udoh
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
April 13, 2024

13/04/2024

AKWA IBOM STATE
MINISTRY OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

PRESS RELEASE

OUR DEEPEST CONDOLENCES...

On behalf of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Akwa Ibom State, I would like to extend our most sincere condolences to the families of all the Nollywood Artistes who lost their lives in the unfortunate boat mishap on the Anam River, in Anambra State.

Our particular condolences go the family of Ms. Abigail Edith Frederick, a true Akwa Ibomite who had an undiluted passion to Arise and shine.

The hardest goodbyes are the ones we don't get to say but Abigail’s demise is no doubt a painful loss, which has certainly created a huge vacuum in her family and by extension the Creative Industry.

It is true that some of the most beautiful things in life end suddenly and without warning, but that doesn't make them less lovely. We therefore, urge the affected families to be consoled by the fact that their offsprings though gone too soon, lived purposeful lives .

May the gentle soul of Ms. Abigail Edith Frederick and all the Nollywood Artistes involved in the mishap rest in peace!

Signed:

Charles Udoh KSJI
Honorable Commissioner

April 13, 2024

26/03/2024

Press Release

GOV ENO DOLES OUT N1.5BN INTEREST-FREE TRADERS’ LOAN
…launches free food voucher programme

Akwa Ibom State Governor Pastor Umo Eno, today, launched the free food voucher programme for the vulnerable and the neediest at the popular Itam market, located in Itu Local Government Area.

Flanked by the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, the two Senators representing Akwa Ibom North East and South respectively, Senator Aniekan Bassey and Senator Ekong Sampson respectively, the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah and other top government officials, Governor Eno, was messianic as he spoke of his government’s bottom -up approach, where the poor and the vulnerable would be assisted to Arise and shine.

The free food voucher for the vulnerable, is a key element of the Bulk Agency Bill that was signed to law a week ago, and the Board, equally inaugurated by the Governor, last week.

The key responsibility of the Agency, is to provide free staple food items : Garri, rice and beans to the most vulnerable through the Social Register.

At the launch of this programme today, the Governor was hailed as a leader with compassion, and the joy and happiness on the part of the recipients was palpable.

They prayed for the Governor and promised to stand by him, support him and continue to pray for the success of his administration.

“This is an incredible people - oriented program. This Governor is truly a Pastor. Look at the Christ-like humility he has shown here.

“He is standing right there, supervising the distribution of the food items; he greeted and touched the recipients.

“This is rare to see in people occupying such an exalted office,” Honourable Anietie Eka, a political chieftain from Uyo local government area, had observed.

Governor Uno Eno’s humanitarian acts are what has defined him. In his inaugural address on May29. 2023, he had clearly signaled the direction of his government: The need to bring governance closer to the people and have them be invested and take ownership in governance. “To those who may not be able to put food on your table, I will be your advocate and champion.”

Today, at Itam market, he took bold steps to do exactly, stating that, “ When leaders are faced with daunting social problems, they usually think outside the box and that’s what motivated me to set up the Bulk Purchase Agency and the free food voucher drive initiative.

“We had reviewed all of the options, and this for us, remains the best. We are partnering with the market leaders and I want to thank them for the cooperation we have so far received from them.

“Let me repeat here that this is purely an interventionist act; the solution to our food security remains the need for us to go back to the farm. Yesterday, I paid an unannounced visit to a farm run by one of your young men and I was so impressed with what the young man is doing and we pledge to support him. I will continue to pay visits to farms run by both people in government and others.

The highlight of the day’s event, was the announcement by the Governor of a 1.5 billion interest free -loans to Akwa Ibom traders to be managed by the Ibom Fadama Micro Finance Bank.

“ I have heard of how some of you go to some places to get loans with very high interest rates and that has, made the cost of food to go up, and before you finish paying the loans, you cannot meet up with your market or trading obligations anymore.

“I have come to tell you not to take such loans anymore. Consequently, we are releasing five hundred million Naira interest -free loans to each of the three senatorial districts (1.5 billion Naira in total,) to help your business.

The Governor also promised to construct a car park, provide solar panel light, modern toilet facilities, all of which were the prayers of the leadership of the Itam Market.

The Governor directed the Transition Chairmen of the remaining 29 councils ( Itu and UyoLocal Government Councils, having been covered by today’s launch ) to ensure they launch the free voucher food program by next Tuesday.

Ekerete Udoh
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
March 26, 2024

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