Posted by Seun Abimbola, IKEJA.



Otuekong Evans Akpanobong, President of the Akpanobong Group - a dynamic and diversified conglomerate with interests in oil, gas, shipping, finance, and construction - has spoken out about the impressive progress made by Governor Umo Eno in Akwa Ibom.

The Mkpat Enin born business mogul while fielding questions yesterday from Journalists and Bloggers in Uyo, the State capital, said, as a stakeholder in Akwa Ibom, he has assessed the Governor’s 100 plus days in office, and can confirmed that he has recorded unprecedented achievements beyond the expectations of the people of the state.

His words: "His Excellency the Governor hit the ground running since he took office, and his gargantuan achievements in just 5 months have been nothing short of extraordinary.

"Between May 29 and today, this Christ-centric leader has touched all areas in his blueprint and every nook and cranny of our state has felt the fresh breathe of his ARISE Agenda."

The former Mkpat Enin Chairmanship aspirant under the platform of PDP, specifically eulogized Governor Eno for the recent release of a whooping N4.6 Billion for payment of the outstanding arrears owed to retired teachers, local government workers and civil servants in the state, and for providing palliatives to help cushion the impact of fuel subsidy removal.

The President of Akpanaobong Group also lauded Pastor Eno for the massive remodeling work ongoing at the Christ the King (CKS) Primary School, Wellington Bassey Way, Uyo, as well as approving the remodeling of one Primary School each in the 10 Federal constituencies of the State.

Otuekong Akpanabong said he was also impressed by the governor's initiative to transform Ndiya Street and the Akpan Andem market, noting that, "the street was once an eyesore, but through the governor's efforts, it has been revitalized and now shines like a beacon of hope. Additionally, the provision of solar lighting, water supply, and modern toilets in the market has improved the lives of the traders, and will continue to benefit them for years to come."

He added: "I've also been struck by the governor's compassion for the small-scale vendors selling their wares on the roadside across the State. The governor has taken the time to stop and talk with these individuals and understand their needs, and he has even gone so far as to empower them with resources and opportunities. This is a true example of leadership that is both visionary and compassionate."

Answering a reporter's question on how he intends to support Pastor Eno's ARISE Agenda, Akpanobong, whose company recently performed a modern-day miracle by turning the Calabar Power Plant's old, weathered turbines into gleaming, brand-new works of art, revealed the secrets of how Ibom Power Plant can achieve greater efficiency and productivity.

Armed with a wealth of experience and expertise, Akpanobong is certain that he can use his skills to generate a large amount of revenue for the State. According to him, this would not only create jobs for young people and improve their future prospects, but also make Akwa Ibom a cynosure of all eyes across African continent

He however, appealed to those who are still furious over the outcome of the 2023 general elections to set aside their anger and support the Governor's programmes as encapsulated in his ARISE Agenda.