₦airaland Forum

By Godwin Edet, Uyo

There are moments in governance that transcend policy papers, budget estimates, and official communiques. There are moments that crystallize, in one unforgettable image, the very essence of leadership. His Excellency Pst Umo Eno’s march through rain and mud to inspect critical infrastructural projects in Eket and Nsit Ubium is one such moment.

The photos were striking: a governor, undeterred by inclement weather, trudging through muddy terrain to assess the progress of roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, and security projects. It was not a carefully choreographed political spectacle. It was leadership in its rawest and most authentic form, a leader physically present where development is being forged and where the hopes of ordinary people are being built, brick by brick and kilometre by kilometre.

Because every delayed road is more than an engineering setback; it is a farmer unable to get produce to market. Every unfinished bridge is more than concrete left hanging; it is a community cut off from opportunity. Every abandoned school project is a child deprived of a conducive learning environment, and every uncompleted hospital is a patient denied access to quality healthcare.

This is why Pst. Umo Eno’s rain-soaked inspection should be understood as something far deeper than routine oversight. It is a declaration that under his watch, excuses will not replace execution and bureaucracy will not impede development.

Rain and mud are often metaphors for the obstacles that stand between vision and reality. They represent the difficulties that confront leaders and Governments, the frustrations that accompany development, and the inconveniences that often tempt public officials to postpone action.

Yet, while the heavens opened and the roads became difficult to navigate, Pst. Umo Eno,Ph.D pressed forward.

In that singular act lies a profound lesson in leadership: progress must never be suspended because conditions are imperfect.

Great leaders do not wait for sunny days to serve their people.

They put on their boots and walk into the storm.

Indeed, the most enduring leaders in history are not those who governed from the comfort of luxurious offices, but those who understood that leadership sometimes requires muddy shoes, wet clothes, and physical exhaustion.

The pictures of Pst. Umo Eno, Ph.D navigating difficult terrain in pursuit of accountability speaks to an important truth: leadership is presence, not proclamation.

A governor’s most valuable asset is not merely the authority vested in his office but the trust reposed in him by the people. That trust is strengthened when citizens see a leader willing to endure discomfort to ensure that promises become reality.

This is the essence of servant leadership.

It is leadership that regards public office as a sacred trust rather than a privilege. It is leadership that understands that the true measure of power lies not in ceremony but in service.

The projects inspected by the Governor are themselves monuments of social justice.

Roads and bridges are not simply infrastructure; they are economic arteries that stimulate trade, facilitate movement, and unlock opportunities. Schools are not merely buildings; they are factories of human capital and engines of future prosperity. Hospitals are sanctuaries of hope where lives are saved and dignity is restored.

Every completed project narrows the gulf between neglect and opportunity, between poverty and prosperity.

This is why the Governor’s insistence on timely completion is neither political theatrics nor administrative impatience. It is a moral imperative.

Communities waiting for roads cannot indefinitely postpone economic aspirations. Families waiting for healthcare facilities cannot suspend their medical needs. Young people yearning for educational opportunities cannot place their dreams on hold because projects remain incomplete.

The Governor’s December deadline, therefore, is not arbitrary; it is an acknowledgment that Akwa Ibomites deserve to enjoy the dividends of governance within a reasonable timeframe.

By charging contractors to expedite work and devise means of operating round the clock, Pst. Umo Eno,Ph.D has sent a clear message that public projects are sacred obligations to the people of Akwa Ibom State.

Equally significant is the culture of accountability this administration continues to entrench.

Indeed, one of the greatest tragedies in public administration is the phenomenon of abandoned projects - silent monuments to broken promises and squandered opportunities.

Pst. Umo Eno,Ph.D appears determined to ensure that Akwa Ibom does not add to that unfortunate catalogue.

His march through rain and mud was, therefore, a march against complacency, against administrative indifference, and against the culture of abandoned dreams.

It was a reminder that governance demands vigilance.

How many leaders would leave the comfort of their offices to inspect projects under heavy rain? What stronger evidence of commitment exists than a governor personally traversing muddy construction sites to ensure that development is on course?

History has a remarkable way of remembering leaders.

It remembers not merely the titles they held but the burdens they willingly carried. It remembers those who chose responsibility over convenience and service over comfort.

On that rain-soaked day in Eket and Nsit Ubium yesterday, Pst. Umo Eno Ph.D carried more than an umbrella against the storm. He carried the hopes of communities awaiting roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, and economic opportunities.

And in doing so, he offered a timeless lesson in leadership: that genuine leadership is not afraid of rain, mud, or difficulty.

It wears boots, marches into the storm, and presses forward until promises becomes reality.

Godwin Edet is Personal Assistant, New Media to the Governor, PR Strategist, Political Communicator, A Pan Africanist, A Fine Artist(A Sculptor) and writes from Aka Offot in Uyo Local Government Area.

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has applauded the arrival of the first batch of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses in the State, describing the development as a major step towards transforming the State transportation system.

Governor Eno, who spoke shortly after receiving and inspecting the buses, disclosed that the 20 vehicles received were part of the 50 ordered by his administration to provide easier, safer, and more efficient transportation service across the 31 Local Government Areas of the state.

The Governor commended the Ministry of Transport, the contractor, the military, and other stakeholders involved in the successful delivery of the buses, noting that the next phase is to complete the bus terminal facilities, install tracking devices, and introduce a modern ticketing system.

He said the initiative aligns with his administration’s commitment to making transportation “easy and simple” for Akwa Ibom people, adding that the state’s improved road network provides the needed foundation for the new transportation system.

Governor Eno described the project as part of the gradual emergence of a new era of infrastructure delivery in the State, saying that the administration’s projects are entering a period of visible results.

He urged Akwa Ibom people to remain confident in government’s efforts, stressing that "meaningful development requires patience, planning, and consistent execution."

The Governor used the occasion to congratulate the Ministry of Transport and the people of the State for the milestone, describing the new transport intervention as a sign of a brighter future for the state.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Anthony Luke, commended the Governor for his remarkable vision and the decision to turn-around the State transport sector.

Dr. Luke noted that the arrival of buses is a testimony to the fact that the Governor is very intentional and concerned about making life better for the people.

With the Governor to receive the buses were the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; the Executive Assistant and Chief Delivery Advisory to the Governor, Mr. Aniefiok Johnson; the Managing Director of Akwa Ibom Investment Corporation, AKICORP, Mr. Imo-Abasi Jacob; Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Entrepreneurial Development, Mr. Ime Uwah, and other government officials.

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno on Sunday, June 28, fulfilled yet another major promise to the people of Akwa Ibom as Ibom Air commenced its scheduled commercial international flights between Uyo and Accra, barely one month after assuring that the route would become operational before the end of June 2026.

Choosing to lead by example, the Governor left the State’s official aircraft behind and travelled aboard the inaugural commercial flight alongside other passengers, demonstrating his confidence in the State-owned airline and the world-class aviation infrastructure developed by his administration.

An elated Governor Umo Eno, in an in-flight interview, appreciated God for yet another milestone recorded in the aviation and tourism development of Akwa Ibom State.

“We give God all the glory for yet another milestone in the aviation and tourism development of our State. Today, we have commenced scheduled commercial flights between Uyo and Accra on Thursdays and Sundays for a start, allowing the flying public to enjoy the premium services offered by Ibom Air.

“More frequencies will follow as we plan to spread into other markets. This is all part of our robust tourism development plan aimed at opening up Akwa Ibom for business, investment and leisure.”

The commencement of the service marks a major milestone in Governor Eno’s vision of transforming Akwa Ibom into a regional aviation hub, providing direct access to Ghana while opening new opportunities for trade, tourism, investment and connectivity across the West African sub-region.

At exactly 3.05 pm. Ghana time, Captain William Uwemedimo Iyoho, assisted by Second Officer Mfoniso Mkpong, welcomed Governor Eno, some members of the State Executive Council and other passengers aboard Ibom Air Flight QI641 bound for the Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo.

Second Officer Mkpong who piloted the flight is one of the young pilots recently trained by the Akwa Ibom State Government under Governor Umo Eno at the Airbus Pilot Training Academy in Angoulême, France.

The flight was operated with one of Ibom Air’s CRJ-900 Bombardier aircraft and completed the journey from Accra to Uyo in one hour and 20 minutes. The cabin crew comprised Ukeme Essien and Inyeneobong Enyina, whose professionalism contributed to a pleasant experience for passengers.

On board were the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Frank Archibong; Commissioner for Information, Hon. Aniekan Umanah; Commissioner for Science and Digital Economy, Dr. Frank Ekpeyong; Managing Director of Hensek Integrated Services, Engr. Uwem Okoko; Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Ibom Air, Mr. George Uriesi; General Manager, Marketing, Mrs. Annie Essienette; golfers and other passengers.

Ibom Air’s successful operation officially established the Victor Attah International Airport as a bona fide international gateway into and out of Nigeria while providing seamless connectivity for passengers travelling between Abuja and Accra through Uyo.

Speaking on the milestone, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Ibom Air, Mr. George Uriesi, described the inaugural operation as a defining moment for the airline and the country’s aviation industry.

He disclosed that the airline successfully transited passengers from Abuja to Accra and another eight from Accra to Abuja through Uyo, demonstrating the airport’s growing role as a regional aviation hub.

According to him, the world-class terminal offers travellers a dignified airport experience and reflects Governor Eno’s commitment to building a modern aviation ecosystem.
He thanked the Governor for his leadership and unwavering support, noting that the achievement had changed the aviation landscape in Nigeria.

Ibom Air will operate the Uyo-Accra route twice weekly, on Sundays and Thursdays, offering travellers from Akwa Ibom, Abuja and neighbouring states a convenient and stress-free gateway to Ghana and the West African sub-region.

It will be recalled that on May 2, 2026, Governor Eno, accompanied by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, and other key stakeholders, flew on the maiden international flight from Uyo to Accra following the inauguration of the international terminal at the Victor Attah International Airport.

At that historic event, the Governor assured the people of Akwa Ibom and the travelling public that scheduled commercial international flights would commence in June 2026.

With Sunday’s successful commencement of schedules flights , Governor Eno has fulfilled that promise, translating vision into reality and strengthening Akwa Ibom’s emergence as a strategic tourism and aviation gateway to the Gulf of Guinea .

Beyond opening the international route, the milestone underscores
aviation capacity development exemplified by the emergence of Second Officer Mfoniso Mkpong among the new generation of pilots trained under Governor Eno’s aviation development programme.

By Godwin Edet
270626

There exists a profound misunderstanding at the heart of public discourse on infrastructure. Too often, societies evaluate monumental projects by what they cost rather than by what they eventually catalyse. We possess an unfortunate tendency to confuse expenditure with investment, invoice with value, and construction with consequence. Yet economics, at its most sophisticated, teaches a more enduring lesson: the true worth of an asset is measured not by its price tag but by the magnitude of the possibilities it perpetually creates.

This is the grammar of transformational infrastructure.

The proposed 5,000-capacity Ibom Convention Centre, together with the adjoining Ibom Hotels, should therefore be interpreted not merely as an assemblage of reinforced concrete, structural strength, and architectural elegance. It is, more profoundly, an engine of economic propagation, an institution designed to convert transient human gatherings into enduring cycles of wealth creation.

The distinction is not semantic; it is civilizational.

Like rainfall upon fertile terrain, it descends in Ibesikpo Asutan but ultimately nourishes the entire Akwa Ibom State.

A convention delegate checking into a hotel appears, at first glance, to have purchased nothing more than accommodation. Yet beneath that deceptively simple transaction lies a remarkably intricate economic choreography. The hotel employs receptionists, housekeepers, chefs, engineers, accountants, security personnel, gardeners, and maintenance technicians. The chef purchases vegetables from local farmers, seafood from fishermen, poultry from producers, spices from traders, and beverages from distributors. The laundry contracts local suppliers. The florist decorates conference halls with flowers cultivated by nearby growers. The shuttle operator refuels at local filling stations. The printer produces conference materials. The photographer captures moments that become tomorrow’s marketing collateral. The software developer maintains registration platforms. The event planner commissions stage designers, lighting technicians, audiovisual specialists, translators, decorators, musicians, and creative professionals.

One visitor arrives.

Hundreds of livelihoods quietly awaken.

This is the silent arithmetic of prosperity, an economy whose equations are written not in textbooks alone but in pay slips, market stalls, family incomes, business expansions, and entrepreneurial aspirations.

No city has ever become globally competitive by relying exclusively upon its natural endowments. Comparative advantage may be inherited, but competitive advantage is consciously constructed.

Cities that become meeting places frequently become marketplaces.

Despite unprecedented advances in virtual communication, global corporations continue to invest billions in face-to-face conferences because trust, perhaps humanity’s most valuable economic currency, is seldom downloaded. It is cultivated through presence. Negotiations acquire texture around conference tables that no video call can fully replicate. Investors frequently commit capital not only because they have analysed spreadsheets, but because they have encountered competence, credibility, and character in person.

Technology may distribute information.

Only human interaction generates conviction.

This is precisely why the Ibom convention infrastructure has become indispensable player within the architecture of the modern knowledge economy. It creates what urban economists describe as agglomeration effects, the extraordinary productivity that emerges when talented individuals, institutions, enterprises, and ideas are intentionally concentrated within shared spaces. Innovation is rarely born in isolation. It flourishes where curiosity collides with expertise, where ambition intersects with opportunity, and where serendipity is afforded an address.

Seen through this prism, the Ibom Convention Arena possesses significance extending far beyond hospitality. It represents an opportunity to diversify economic activity by nurturing sectors that thrive upon connectivity rather than extraction. It will also amplify the fortunes of Ibom Air through increased passenger traffic, strengthen hospitality through sustained occupancy, invigorate transportation networks, expand demand for agriculture, energise creative industries, stimulate retail commerce, encourage digital entrepreneurship, and create opportunities for countless small and medium-sized enterprises whose prosperity depends upon the circulation of people rather than the extraction of minerals.

This is development in its most sophisticated form, not an economy dependent upon a single resource, but an ecosystem in which one opportunity continuously generates another.

Every international conference successfully hosted subtly recalibrates how a destination is perceived. Every satisfied delegate becomes an informal ambassador. Every investment forum expands networks previously unimaginable. Every exhibition quietly announces to the world that a city possesses not merely infrastructure, but institutional competence, organisational maturity, and the confidence to participate in global conversations.

Reputation, after all, is itself an economic asset.

Akwa Ibom Government spend fortunes constructing it.

Citizens inherit its rewards.

Thus, the ultimate significance of the Ibom Convention Centre may not reside in the elegance of its architecture,Its greater promise lies in its capacity to reposition Akwa Ibom State within the mental map of investors, entrepreneurs, academics, innovators, diplomats, and global institutions. For economies do not merely compete through taxation, incentives, or natural resources. Increasingly, they compete through perception. And perception, when reinforced by credible infrastructure, often becomes the invisible currency from which tangible prosperity is minted.

The future, therefore, may not remember this project simply because concrete was poured.

It may be remembered because confidence found a permanent address in Akwa Ibom State through His Excellency Pst. Umo Bassey Eno, Ph.D.

Godwin Edet is Personal Assistant, New Media to the Governor, PR Strategist, Political Communicator, A Pan Africanist, A Sculptor and writes from Aka Offot in Uyo Local Government Area.

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has encouraged youths to remain committed to their dreams and visions, saying that determination and hard work will eventually make their ideas visible and appreciated.

Governor Eno stated this during an evening of worship organised by his daughter, Mrs Jayne Ufot, tagged "Worship with Jayne Music Concert," where he commended her courage and initiative in putting together the programme.

The Governor said he deliberately allowed his children to pursue their interests as long as they aligned with the values of God, noting that Jayne’s persistence in promoting the event demonstrated the importance of believing in one’s vision.

“Each of us has a vision, and needs to work hard towards it. Sometimes people may not believe in that vision, but you are the owner of the vision. You don’t mind what people say; you pursue the vision and when the vision speaks, everyone will see it.”

Governor Eno described the event as a lesson in determination, recalling how Jayne continued to publicise the programme until it became a reality.

He praised her organisational ability, describing her as a “master event planner,” and thanked guests and supporters who contributed to the success of the religious musical concert.

In an exhortation, the Lead Pastor of the God of Wonders (G.O.W) Service and Ministry, Evangelist Ayang-Ifiok Umoren, said there have been some misconceptions about worship, and explained that worship is about a person or people and their relationship with God and fellow humans.

Taking his text from 2 Chronicles 20:21-22, he highlighted the power of worship, stressing that great and mighty things take place during worship.

In a brief on the event, the host, Mrs. Ufot, said it was the manifestation of a burden she has carried since childhood in the choir, stressing that it was not a product of impulse but a childhood vision.

She said the vision is to have an assemblage of people worshiping God, adding that it was a vision of pure worship and reverence to God, not an entertainment event.

Mrs. Ufot, best known as Jayne Jesus, appreciated her father, Governor Eno and mother of blessed memory, for their godly upbringing and admonished parents to train their children in the way they should go, for, as the Bible says, when they are old, they will not depart from it.

She appreciated the Governor for honouring her, and everyone for taking part in the worship service, and expressed hope that they were blessed.

The service featured prominent artistes including; Progress Effiong, Chris Vic, his brother, Rehosax, Ity Charis, Joseph Festus, and the Harmonic Choral.

Essien Ndueso

In public policy, the true measure of development is not the size of a building but the number of lives transformed by an investment. This is a principle that appears to guide the administration of Governor Umo Eno as Akwa Ibom State continues to pursue a people-centered approach to youth empowerment and economic development.

For some critics, the conversation around technology and innovation in Akwa Ibom State remains fixated on the Ibom Science Park, a project conceptualized nearly three decades ago during the administration of Obong Victor Attah. Their argument is simple: until the Science Park is completed, every other initiative in the technology sector falls short.

However, a closer examination of present realities suggests that development is not about preserving old dreams at all costs; it is about adapting to current realities and creating solutions that meet today's challenges.

Governor Umo Eno has chosen a different path one that prioritizes accessibility, inclusiveness, and practical impact over monumental structures.

Across Akwa Ibom State, the administration has established technology and development hubs designed to equip young people with skills relevant to the 21st-century economy.

These centres provide training in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), digital innovation, creative arts, communication, entrepreneurship, and a wide range of vocational and professional skills.

Unlike a centralized facility that primarily serves those living within urban centres, these hubs are strategically positioned to ensure that youths from all 31 local government areas have access to training opportunities.

The model is simple but highly effective.
Each training cycle accommodates approximately 100 participants. With multiple training sessions conducted throughout the year, each centre can train up to 1,000 youths annually. Replicated across the state's local government areas, this translates into at least 31,000 young people gaining practical skills every year.

This approach democratizes access to opportunity.

A young person in Eastern Obolo, Ini, Mbo, Ika, or Oron now has a pathway to digital skills acquisition without needing to relocate to Uyo or any major urban centre. The emphasis is no longer on building a single iconic structure but on creating multiple access points where innovation and learning can thrive.

This raises an important question: what delivers greater value to the people a single technology complex serving a limited number of beneficiaries, or a decentralized system that reaches thousands of youths annually across the state?

The answer appears increasingly obvious.

The debate becomes even more significant when viewed against the current condition of the Ibom Science Park site itself. Survey indicates that the facility has suffered decades of abandonment and environmental degradation. Significant portions of the area have been threatened by erosion and ravine encroachment, while the existing structures may have to pass an integrity test.

Any attempt to revive the project would first require substantial investments in land reclamation, environmental remediation, structural assessment, and reconstruction before any meaningful technological activities could commence.
Such realities inevitably raise concerns about cost-effectiveness and return on investment.

Indeed, modern innovation ecosystems have evolved considerably since the original Science Park concept was conceived in the early 2000s. Around the world, many successful technology ecosystems now thrive through networks of innovation centres, university-based research hubs, startup incubators, and distributed digital learning platforms rather than stand-alone science monuments.

Innovation no longer depends solely on large physical infrastructure. It depends on people, skills, connectivity, and access to knowledge. The most valuable investment is often not concrete and steel but human capital.

Governor Umo Eno's strategy appears to reflect this understanding.
Rather than pursuing projects for their symbolic value or public spectacle, the administration has consistently emphasized investments that directly impact citizens.

The state's technology hubs represent an effort to meet young people where they are and prepare them for opportunities in the digital economy.

The administration's investment philosophy also reflects a broader commitment to prudence and sustainability. Every major project undergoes rigorous evaluation to determine its viability, economic value, and long-term benefits to the people of Akwa Ibom State. That exactly explains the role of the Special Purpose Vehicle, Akwa Ibom Investment Corporation, AKICORP, headed by Pastor Imo-Abasi Jacob. This team scrutinizes, weighs, measures and filters the pros and cons of any idea or concept before making recommendations to the Governor for execution. This is in line with the belief of the State Chief Executive who has repeatedly stated that he would not be coerced into pumping public funds, into a project that may not be viable.

The objective is not to build monuments for applause but to create assets that generate measurable outcomes.
This practical approach is particularly important at a time when governments worldwide are increasingly required to justify every expenditure against competing developmental priorities.
For thousands of Akwa Ibom youths who have gained access to digital training, entrepreneurship support, and innovation programmes through the state's development centres, the benefits are already tangible.

They are acquiring skills that can lead to employment, self-reliance, and participation in the global digital economy.

Development, after all, is not merely about preserving the past.
It is about preparing for the future.
While history will always remember the vision behind the Ibom Science Park, today's realities demand solutions that are scalable, accessible, and responsive to the needs of the people.

There is also a practical economic question that cannot be ignored. If the Ibom Science Park remains as viable and commercially attractive as its protagonists profer, why has there been no significant scramble by investors to take advantage of the opportunity? In every thriving sector, investors compete vigorously for projects capable of generating sustainable returns and long-term value. If the Science Park still represented a compelling business proposition in today's technology-driven economy, one would reasonably expect strong interest from private-sector players eager to participate in its redevelopment. Yet, despite years of public advocacy for the project, there has been no visible rush from investors willing to commit resources to its revival.

Governor Umo Eno has, in fact, made it clear that the state is open to credible investors who can unlock value from the site, and has expressed a willingness to support alternative investments that may deliver greater economic benefits to Akwa Ibom State. Rather than channel their energy into abusing the Governor, the naysayers should come with at least one credible investor who is ready to accept the challenge of transforming that failed project into a viable productive technology incubation venture. But such would be with an embargo that such an investor will not end up roofing the building for use as hostel accommodation for nearby Uniuyo or Uyo City Polytechnic Students.

Richard Peters

The recent outburst and politically motivated remarks by Sen. John James Udoedehe about wanting to contest the 2027 election to arrest poverty in Akwa Ibom State have once again exposed the desperation of certain political actors bent on sustaining a media onslaught against Governor Umo Eno for selfish political gains.

While it can be understood that the time for political mudslinging is here, it is necessary to caution the local man and others deliberately overheating the polity through sponsored propaganda and divisive narratives disguised as opposition politics to lace their propositions with verifiable facts, rather than sensational talk.

For the record, the administration of Governor Umo Eno has remained focused on poverty reduction through strategic infrastructure development, rural integration, economic empowerment, and human capital investment.

The Governor has taken several deliberate steps aimed at reducing poverty and improving livelihoods across Akwa Ibom State through economic empowerment, rural development, social welfare, and job creation initiatives.

Regarding support for Small Businesses and Traders, this administration has rolled out empowerment schemes for traders, farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs through grants, business support funds, and equipment distribution aimed at boosting small and medium-scale enterprises.

Recognising agriculture as a major tool for poverty reduction, the government has invested in farm settlements, support for farmers, seedlings distribution, and programmes encouraging youth participation in agriculture to enhance food production and create jobs.

Also, several road projects, rural electrification schemes, and water projects have been initiated in communities across the state to open up rural economies and improve access to markets and social services.

Governor Umo Eno's administration has continued interventions in education and skills acquisition through vocational training programmes, scholarships, and youth empowerment initiatives intended to reduce unemployment.

Meanwhile, the consistent payment of backlog of gratuities, workers’ salaries and pensions has helped sustain household incomes and support local economic activities.

Through direct support programmes for vulnerable groups, women, youths, and the elderly, the administration has attempted to cushion the effects of economic hardship on low-income households.

By sustaining relative peace and stability in the state, the government has created a more conducive environment for businesses and investments to thrive, which indirectly contributes to poverty reduction. What more can one ask?

Across the State, roads are being constructed and rehabilitated to ease movement, stimulate commerce, and improve the living conditions of citizens. Projects such as the 10.4km Idoro–Ukpom Road linking Uyo and Abak, the ongoing expansion of the Udom Emmanuel Boulevard, the reconstruction of strategic internal roads across Uyo metropolis, and several constituency roads in rural communities are all opening up economic corridors and connecting farmers and traders to markets.

Every kilometre of road constructed translates into economic opportunities for engineers, artisans, transporters, food vendors, labourers, suppliers, and small business owners. Senator Udoedehe should check the figures properly and understand that in every road project executed by this administration, hundreds of people are directly and indirectly benefitting economically.

Beyond roads, the administration has embarked on several life-changing programmes targeted at reducing poverty and expanding opportunities for ordinary citizens. Through the ARISE Compassionate Homes initiative, hundreds of homes are being constructed for vulnerable and low-income citizens across the 31 local government areas, with beneficiaries also receiving business support grants to improve their livelihoods.

In Uyo Federal Constituency alone, Governor Umo Eno empowered over 1,187 beneficiaries with grants worth over N492 million under the ARISE Farmers Scheme, ARISE Traders Scheme, Equipment Support Scheme, and MSME grants. These interventions directly support traders, farmers, transporters, entrepreneurs, and young business owners.

The administration has also approved over 357 youth-led projects across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to deepen youth empowerment and job creation, while ongoing infrastructure projects spanning over 1,500 kilometres of roads across the 31 local government areas continue to stimulate economic activities statewide.

Under Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, abandoned landmark projects are receiving renewed attention. The reconstruction of the Ibom International Convention Centre and the 200-room Ibom Hotel, alongside the development of the ARISE Palm Resort and ARISE Park, are strategic investments aimed at boosting tourism, attracting investors, and creating employment opportunities for Akwa Ibom people.

Independent reports have also shown that the ARISE Agenda has created over 30,000 direct jobs, impacted more than 800,000 beneficiaries, and injected billions of naira into grants and empowerment programmes across the State.

While political activities ahead of future elections are gradually gathering momentum, it is important that political actors maintain decorum and civility in public discourse. Politics should not degenerate into reckless attacks and media manipulation simply because some individuals seek to rehabilitate tainted political images or force themselves back into public relevance through sensationalism.

Akwa Ibom people deserve issue-based engagements, not propaganda. The State has continued to enjoy peace, stability, and purposeful leadership under Governor Umo Eno, and no amount of politically motivated distortion can diminish the visible progress being recorded across sectors.

Akwa Ibom people should therefore remain vigilant and refuse to be misled by divisive narratives designed solely to create disaffection where none exists.

Richard Peters

The recent outburst and politically motivated remarks by Sen. John James Udoedehe about wanting to contest the 2027 election to arrest poverty in Akwa Ibom State have once again exposed the desperation of certain political actors bent on sustaining a media onslaught against Governor Umo Eno for selfish political gains.

While it can be understood that the time for political mudslinging is here, it is necessary to caution the local man and others deliberately overheating the polity through sponsored propaganda and divisive narratives disguised as opposition politics to lace their propositions with verifiable facts, rather than sensational talk.

For the record, the administration of Governor Umo Eno has remained focused on poverty reduction through strategic infrastructure development, rural integration, economic empowerment, and human capital investment.

The Governor has taken several deliberate steps aimed at reducing poverty and improving livelihoods across Akwa Ibom State through economic empowerment, rural development, social welfare, and job creation initiatives.

Regarding support for Small Businesses and Traders, this administration has rolled out empowerment schemes for traders, farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs through grants, business support funds, and equipment distribution aimed at boosting small and medium-scale enterprises.

Recognising agriculture as a major tool for poverty reduction, the government has invested in farm settlements, support for farmers, seedlings distribution, and programmes encouraging youth participation in agriculture to enhance food production and create jobs.

Also, several road projects, rural electrification schemes, and water projects have been initiated in communities across the state to open up rural economies and improve access to markets and social services.

Governor Umo Eno's administration has continued interventions in education and skills acquisition through vocational training programmes, scholarships, and youth empowerment initiatives intended to reduce unemployment.

Meanwhile, the consistent payment of backlog of gratuities, workers’ salaries and pensions has helped sustain household incomes and support local economic activities.

Through direct support programmes for vulnerable groups, women, youths, and the elderly, the administration has attempted to cushion the effects of economic hardship on low-income households.

By sustaining relative peace and stability in the state, the government has created a more conducive environment for businesses and investments to thrive, which indirectly contributes to poverty reduction. What more can one ask?

Across the State, roads are being constructed and rehabilitated to ease movement, stimulate commerce, and improve the living conditions of citizens. Projects such as the 10.4km Idoro–Ukpom Road linking Uyo and Abak, the ongoing expansion of the Udom Emmanuel Boulevard, the reconstruction of strategic internal roads across Uyo metropolis, and several constituency roads in rural communities are all opening up economic corridors and connecting farmers and traders to markets.

Every kilometre of road constructed translates into economic opportunities for engineers, artisans, transporters, food vendors, labourers, suppliers, and small business owners. Senator Udoedehe should check the figures properly and understand that in every road project executed by this administration, hundreds of people are directly and indirectly benefitting economically.

Beyond roads, the administration has embarked on several life-changing programmes targeted at reducing poverty and expanding opportunities for ordinary citizens. Through the ARISE Compassionate Homes initiative, hundreds of homes are being constructed for vulnerable and low-income citizens across the 31 local government areas, with beneficiaries also receiving business support grants to improve their livelihoods.

In Uyo Federal Constituency alone, Governor Umo Eno empowered over 1,187 beneficiaries with grants worth over N492 million under the ARISE Farmers Scheme, ARISE Traders Scheme, Equipment Support Scheme, and MSME grants. These interventions directly support traders, farmers, transporters, entrepreneurs, and young business owners.

The administration has also approved over 357 youth-led projects across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to deepen youth empowerment and job creation, while ongoing infrastructure projects spanning over 1,500 kilometres of roads across the 31 local government areas continue to stimulate economic activities statewide.

Under Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, abandoned landmark projects are receiving renewed attention. The reconstruction of the Ibom International Convention Centre and the 200-room Ibom Hotel, alongside the development of the ARISE Palm Resort and ARISE Park, are strategic investments aimed at boosting tourism, attracting investors, and creating employment opportunities for Akwa Ibom people.

Independent reports have also shown that the ARISE Agenda has created over 30,000 direct jobs, impacted more than 800,000 beneficiaries, and injected billions of naira into grants and empowerment programmes across the State.

While political activities ahead of future elections are gradually gathering momentum, it is important that political actors maintain decorum and civility in public discourse. Politics should not degenerate into reckless attacks and media manipulation simply because some individuals seek to rehabilitate tainted political images or force themselves back into public relevance through sensationalism.

Akwa Ibom people deserve issue-based engagements, not propaganda. The State has continued to enjoy peace, stability, and purposeful leadership under Governor Umo Eno, and no amount of politically motivated distortion can diminish the visible progress being recorded across sectors.

Akwa Ibom people should therefore remain vigilant and refuse to be misled by divisive narratives designed solely to create disaffection where none exists.

By: Celestine Mel

The title of this intervention is borrowed from a popular sermon delivered by Leader Olumba Olumba Obu, the founder of the Brotherhood of the Cross & Star. I read that sermon, which was later adapted into a handbook titled “The First Step”, several years ago. In it, the "Father," as he is affectionately known by his adherents, admonished that for anyone to aspire to inherit the mercies and kingdom of God, they must first take a definitive step toward godliness. He defined this first step as accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, eschewing bitterness, loving the brethren unconditionally, rejecting sin, practicing peace, and committing to noble causes.

By any measure, these are daunting requirements. Yet, Leader Olumba insisted that one must take this initial step before any other can follow. It is neither easy nor convenient, but it remains indispensable for those who seek the beautiful rewards promised to the faithful.

I must admit, there is no theological relationship connecting religion to the subject of this monologue. Instead, I am borrowing that powerful spiritual analogy to highlight the sheer scale of the historic events that have unfolded over the last two weeks across my beloved home state of Akwa Ibom, and indeed, Nigeria.

It is no secret that I maintain a laser-focused, almost stubborn interest in the affairs of my state and country. No matter where fate and duty plant my feet, my heart maintains an unyielding allegiance to home. Many in the diaspora know this exact feeling; this irresistible, magnetic pull. There is something about the concept of “home” that defies logical or scientific explanation. The soil of your birth has a way of anchoring your emotions and pinning your psychology. The surreal warmth of returning to parents, kindred, and lifelong peers is an experience that vocabulary often fails to capture. It brings to mind the words of Maya Angelou, who beautifully captured this universal ache when she wrote that _“the ache for home lives in all of us because it is the safe place where we can go as we are and not be questioned”._

Just days ago, the ruling All Progressives Congress conducted its gubernatorial primary elections. Pastor Umo Eno, the affable and unconventionally grassroots Governor of Akwa Ibom State, was on the ballot. Remarkably, he stood as the sole aspirant for the office, a historic second in the long 39-year legacy of our state, after his political father - Gov Udom, in 2019. I had initially finalized plans to travel home to stand by him, moved by the visible, life-changing strides his administration has made in lifting the rural poor through smart, targeted initiatives. I expected a fierce political battle, as has always been our tradition. But when the official list of aspirants was published, it became clear that no one was willing to step into the ring with him. To conserve my official leave for another time, I shelved the trip. It came as no surprise when the teeming people of the state enthusiastically affirmed the Governor to contest for a second term in 2027. A worthy first step.

Five days prior, the Senate primary race yielded an equally profound outcome. Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio, who represents my district and brilliantly presides over the entire National Assembly, was unanimously affirmed by party members across the Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District. My relationship with this race has evolved. In 2023, I pitched my tent with Akpabio’s fierce opponent, doing everything within my literary power to produce a different outcome. Today, however, I openly support his return. The majority of our people recognize that he has been exceptional, skillfully navigating the treacherous minefields of national politics over the past three years with uncommon dominance. He deserves a united home front as he continues to project the core virtues of the Akwa Ibom spirit: loyalty, enterprise, patriotism, and an unwavering belief in possibility. His leadership of the National Assembly so far has been mature and retrospective, balancing complex political algebra with leadership differential equations to produce answers that move our nation forward. Alongside Senators Ekong Sampson and Aniekan Bassey, he easily clinched his ticket for another consecutive term. In a political landscape where many ranking members across Nigeria failed to solve for ‘X’ in their domestic simultaneous equations and lost their seats, Akwa Ibom has secured continuity. If we act strategically rather than emotionally, this all-three ranking status gives our state a massive competitive edge. This, too, is a worthy first step.

Then there is the story of my friend and brother, Dr. Patrick Umoh, who was on the ballot to break a decades-old jinx as the first representative from the Ikot Ekpene/Obot Akara/Essien Udim Federal Constituency to secure a consecutive return to the House after one term, since the creation of man. Our friendship began three years ago, high above the clouds, on an Ibom Air flight from Abuja to Uyo. He had read my commentary and recognized me; I, conversely, knew little about him. During the grueling 2023 cycle, I was deeply insulated within my own political choices, heavily invested in Pastor Umo Eno for Governor, Prince Ukpong Akpabio for House of Assembly, Barr. Emmanuel Enoidem for Senate, and Senator Bola Tinubu for President. These choices were deeply personal, and I spared no effort in fighting for them.

When the dust settled, Tinubu, Eno, and Prince Ukpong triumphed. Emmanuel Enoidem did not. His loss stung deeply like a bee, because he and I shared an unapologetic, fierce camaraderie. We still do.

It was in the heavy, somber aftermath of that loss that I boarded the flight to Uyo. As I sat in my seat, a tall, lanky young gentleman walked down the aisle, leaned over my shoulder, and extended a warm hand with an infectious smile: "Hello Celestine Mel, I am Dr. Patrick Umoh, your newly elected representative in Abuja."

I froze, my brain scrambling to connect the face to the posters I had dismissed on lampposts during the campaigns. I had been so consumed by the PDP machinery that I hadn't imagined an APC candidate winning my federal constituency. That single, humbling gesture left an indelible mark on my soul. His total lack of bitterness captivated me. Before the plane took off, he made a direct, heartfelt appeal: "Please, sir, you know I am a grandson of Essien Udim, and my wife is from there too. I am deeply rooted in your LGA; it is my home. My mentor is the greatest export from Akwa Ibom to the world, His Excellency, Senator Akpabio. I am loyal to him. I read everything you write, and I admire and appreciate your brilliance. Please, I beg of you, tone down your attacks on Senator Akpabio. Do this for me and for us, my brother. He is a good man, but you look at him from afar. Let us build a win-win relationship. He loves brilliant minds like yours. He appreciates you. I promise, I and he will not disappoint you or our people. Someday I will love you to meet him."

I looked into his eyes and told him my heart: I held nothing personal against Akpabio beyond valid grievances regarding the neglect of my part of Essien Udim during his governorship. I assured him that it always in my own interest for our elected leaders including Senator Akpabio to succeed, and promised my support.

Since that flight, Patrick and I have maintained a close, consultative relationship. I have found him to be highly accessible, cerebral, and deeply invested in the art of robust lawmaking. He understands both the responsibilities of legislation and the delicate choreography required to navigate Nigeria’s complex political terrain. Having earned the trust of the political establishment, he is poised to become a formidable second-term legislator in 2027. It is profoundly gratifying to watch him stand on the threshold of history, ready to shatter a long-standing jinx. A record first step.

There is also Prince Ukpong Akpabio II. In 2023, he was up against the run of play; against conventional wisdom and the ‘zoining’ principle. It was a steep climb. We rallied round to see him through the finish line, against all the odds. He is a dominant alpha-male whose kind of politics defy the books. A few days ago, he was nominated again by his party. This time, unopposed. To return to the House of Assembly and take up the unfinished business. We shall get back to this matter too, on a later date, soon. No doubts, a great step.

On the national stage, President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu was overwhelmingly returned as the flagbearer of the APC in the presidential primaries yesterday. His victory was entirely predictable; a textbook demonstration of dominant power theory in action. I know many of my readers are wondering where I will pitch my tent in the upcoming national contests, particularly for the presidency, given the charged environment. I will address this comprehensively very soon. Suffice it to say, the behavior of the Nigerian political elite remains remarkably predictable, whether they are holding power or chasing it.

It is difficult for me to categorize figures like Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Gov. Peter Obi, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, or Gov. Seyi Makinde as a true "opposition," because the term connotes much more than a quest for power and access to the treasury. In a mature democracy, true opposition implies a clash of philosophies, competing visions of national progress, and contrasting ideologies—not merely a cyclical scramble for access to power. But that is a discourse for another treatise soon.

For now, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the victors. Within the unique crucible of Nigerian politics, no one can qualify to compete for election into public office without the machinery and sponsorship of a political party. Navigating a primary is an exhausting, high-stakes feat. While the APC has successfully completed this initial phase of a long political journey, we must remember a fundamental truth: primaries do not confer victory; they merely grant permission to seek it.

Yet, as Leader Olumba reminded us, every grand journey demands a first step. Over the past fortnight, Akwa Ibom has taken several momentous strides: a governor securing his mandate without internal opposition, senators positioning themselves to consolidate institutional influence, nine federal lawmaker poised to break a generational political jinx, and a sitting President preparing his battle lines for the next national contest. Whether these initial steps culminate in historic triumph or crushing disappointment will depend entirely on strategy, foresight, and ultimately, the sacred verdict of the people. Politics, much like life itself, rarely rewards hesitation. The wheels are in motion. The journey has begun. And no matter how long or winding the road ahead becomes, home remains our unwavering point of departure, and our ultimate destination of hope. Well done, next chapter please?

***** *Celestine Mel* is a chartered banker and public affairs analyst. He writes from the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

*Follows/Comments/Feedback:*
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4. Email: celestine.mel@outlook.com

... as President Tinubu wins primary at Ibiakpan Obotim Ward II


Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has applauded the direct primaries option adopted by the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its national Leader, President Bola Tinubu, for its enhanced social integration at the grassroots.

Fielding questions from Government House Correspondents shortly after participating in the party presidential primary in his ward, Ibiakpan Obotim ward II, Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, where President Tinubu emerged the winner, the Governor said the option has given a sense of belonging to those at the grassroot.

Governor Eno thanked the party faithful in his ward for turning up en mass to queue behind President Tinubu for a second term, describing the gesture as a great source of inspiration for continuous rural development which is one of the pillars of the ARISE Agenda.

"One thing this direct primaries has done is to bring everybody back to their wards, which shows you that politics is local. For me, one of the lessons is that we must take care of this our local communities. We must ensure that we carry them along. We shouldn't just come to them during election. They have come out en mass because, I believe, we have been carrying them along," he said.

The Governor noted that his administration pays particular interest in rural development, adding that he will continue to open up rural roads and communities to stimulate the local economy.

He enumerated some of his administration's efforts at rural development to include; appointment of personal aide in all the 329 wards, construction of model primary schools and health centres, rural roads, co-operative society for women, borehole water installation, Arise compassionate homes, and the soon - to - be commissioned Youth Development Centers; and reaffirmed his commitment to doing more next term.

The State Chief Executive congratulated President Tinubu on his victory, and reassured the people of inclusive, visionary and people-centric leadership by ensuring that the grassroot and rural areas will continue to be his administration's forte.

…as Ini leaders laud peaceful conduct

~ Peter Samuel Inyang

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Primary Election held across Ini Local Government Area recorded massive participation by party faithful, with members overwhelmingly returning President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the party’s candidate ahead of the 2027 general election.

The exercise, which took place on Saturday, May 23, 2026, across the wards in the local government area, was conducted peacefully as party members turned out in large numbers to participate in the nationwide primary election.

The Executive Chairman of Ini Local Government Area, Hon. Inibehe Umah, who supervised the process as Collation Officer in the area, expressed satisfaction with the successful conduct of the exercise and commended party faithful for their orderly behaviour throughout the process. He described the exercise as peaceful, credible, and a true reflection of the unity within the party in the area.

Also speaking, the member representing Ini State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon. Lawrence Udoide, commended party members for their discipline and peaceful participation, noting that the turnout demonstrated strong grassroots confidence in the APC and its leadership.

The Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Offiong Offor, also lauded the exercise, describing it as orderly and well-coordinated. He said the peaceful atmosphere recorded across the wards was a clear indication of political maturity among party faithful in Ini.

In the same vein, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Legislative Matters, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Bassey, praised the conduct of the primary election, saying it reflected unity of purpose among APC members and growing support for the party’s leadership at both state and national levels.

Similarly, the former Dean of Commissioners in Akwa Ibom State, Dr. Glory Edet, described the exercise as transparent and peaceful, commending party members for their enthusiasm and orderly conduct throughout the process.

Speaking shortly after the collation of results, the local government Collation Officer, Hon. Umah described the massive support recorded for President Tinubu in Ini as a demonstration of the confidence party members have in the leadership of the President and the APC at the national level.

He further praised stakeholders, ward executives, women groups, youths, and party supporters for maintaining peace and unity before, during, and after the exercise, noting that the smooth conduct of the primaries reflected the growing strength and stability of the APC in Ini Local Government Area.

According to the Council Chairman, the enthusiasm displayed by party members across the wards further confirmed the readiness of APC supporters in Ini to continue supporting the programmes and policies of the Tinubu-led administration.

Across ward centres in Odoro Ikpe, Ikpe, Iwerre, Nkari, Odoro Ikono, Itu Mbonuso, and other parts of the local government area, supporters openly celebrated the outcome of the exercise, while party leaders and observers described the process as peaceful, transparent, and well-coordinated.

...as APC concludes primaries

Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, said Uyo Local Government Area would not stop supporting President Bola Tinubu.

He spoke at the presidential primaries held in Ward 6 on Saturday, May 23, 2026.

The SSG, who extolled the virtues of the President, underscored his economic policies and programmes, saying they reflected the vision of a purposeful, visionary leader.

“We need to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has created a more supportive fiscal environment for states through his people-centered leadership. This has given our Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, Ph.D., the capacity to deliver on development priorities. In Akwa Ibom, we can see the results in expanded infrastructure, payment of gratuities, empowerment programs, healthcare improvements, model schools, and other achievements. As our Governor, Pastor Umo Eno has consistently said, this is why we must back the President to do even more,” he said.

“Our position is clear: where our Governor stands is where we stand. Governor Umo Eno has maintained his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and that is the direction we will follow. Through the strategic execution of the ARISE Agenda, his administration has turned people-oriented policies into visible outcomes across governance, while maintaining a stable, peaceful, and inclusive political climate in Uyo and beyond,” the SSG added.

Also speaking, the Wife of the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Inemesit Uwah, thanked the women for conducting themselves in an orderly manner throughout the primaries. She appreciated them for keeping faith with the party and called for sustained support at the general elections in 2027.

“We’re done with the primaries, and I must commend you all for conducting yourselves in an orderly manner from the beginning till today,” she said.

“This is only a prelude to the general elections. So, no one should relent. The bigger task awaits us in 2027. Please do not fail our candidates,” she appealed.

Reacting to the outcome of the exercise, Delivery Advisor to the Governor on Tourism, Sir Charles Udoh, expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s win in the 2027 election, saying the turnout was a pointer to it.

“The turnout today shows that people have accepted the ruling party, led in the state by Pst. Umo Eno and, by extension, all other candidates of the party. It’s also a reflection of the goodwill of the candidates, because no one is coerced to be on the line,” he said.

“Party primaries are part of the internal democratic process, and democracy thrives when everyone is given an opportunity to participate—just as you’ve seen us do from the beginning,” he added.

Speaking for the women, the Ward Party Women Leader, Koko Idongesit Okon, said she was confident they would deliver their candidates, given their turnout throughout the primaries.

“Our decision is backed by the President’s people-centered administration, which has introduced economic policies that benefit market women, traders, students, and farmers. So, it’s not a blind decision. We know what we’re doing,” she said.

The presidential primaries, in which President Tinubu emerged winner in Ward 6, were conducted at St Michael’s Primary School, Effiat Offot, on Abak Road.

#PresidentialPrimaries4Uyo

By Clement Warrie


If you had both the data and the time to scroll through social media feeds over the last two days, flip through a newspaper, or simply listen to radio conversations across Akwa Ibom State, you would be inundated with a groundswell of goodwill messages, tributes, prayers, and charity, all flowing toward one man, Governor Umo Eno, as he marked another golden year of life.

No one was left out. The commemoration drew broad participation across the political spectrum, involving President Tinubu and members of his cabinet, service chiefs, ministerial aides, state commissioners, and members of the opposition. The scope and scale of the tributes marked the occasion as unprecedented, historic and fit for a beloved leader.

Political observers and the media interpret the public display of solidarity as a response to Governor Umo Eno’s emphasis on humane, servant-oriented governance, a style now referenced in state and national discourse as an emergent model of executive leadership

What marked the season most precisely was hardly the deluge of goodwill messages or the governor’s visits to the Divine Children Orphanage, where he declared:

"No child is born by accident. Every child has a purpose, and God doesn't make mistakes. We have taken these children, we will nurture them, and we will help them realize their destinies."

Nor did it come from his now-famous remark:

"Every time a retired civil servant sends me a text thanking me for receiving gratuity, I feel accomplished. When I see a widow who had lived in a place that could be likened to a rat hole but is now a beneficiary of the over 400 compassionate homes that we have built, I feel accomplished. When former political foes sit to break bread, eat, and shake hands across divides, and our state remains peaceful, I feel very accomplished. That is the love that keeps us going as a state."

What rather marked this season for me is the haunting realization that, for one little misstep, the people of Akwa Ibom would never have had this five-star governor as their leader. Not because they wouldn't have voted him into power, but because, at the height of the electioneering season, he had suddenly come to realize that politics was a strange land for a pastor—far dirtier than what he had read in the books.

For anyone yet to read the book "Umo Eno: And It Came To Pass" written by Anietie Usen, the Special Assistant on Media to Governor Umo Eno, I recommend that you do so without delay. From cover to cover, the book serves as an adventure through the rough roads that led Governor Umo Eno to the Hilltop Mansion. Everything you need to know is captured in vivid detail. Facts are presented raw and unvarnished. The anecdotes are disarmingly honest to the extent that some will leave you either giddy and rolling on the floor in amusement, or winded like you just ran up the Akwa Ibom State Secretariat stairs.

One morning, the book recounts, when the opposition fire had turned relentless and his family was bleeding from the lies told about him, Governor Umo Eno (then a candidate) did something totally unexpected. He went to see his benefactor. He had made up his mind to quit politics. He pleaded with his political father, "Let this cup pass me by."

His political mentor, renowned for his stoic political nature was faintly amused. As one who had bled in the political arena and won many battles, he understood him completely. His response to him was fitting, almost as though it were scripted for that hour. “Have you eaten this morning? Come, let’s have breakfast,”

To be clear, His Excellency, former governor Udom Emmanuel was hardly thinking of a meal in that most critical juncture of the campaign, what his invitation meant was a charge to nourish his strengthen and his spirit for the battles ahead, the lonely nights, the misreading of motives, the attacks from critics and traducers. And more significantly, the mandate God had laid on his heart.

To this day, I still flinch at the thought. What if Governor Umo Eno had walked away from it all? What would have replaced the performance of the Golden Era, the ARISE Agenda and the trajectory of progress Akwa Ibom is on, the hospitals rising, the businesses opening, the infrastructure, roads and critical reforms, all lost to history?

No doubts, the impact of missed opportunities and institutional reforms would be rued for years. Take one shining instance, the Treasury Single Account (TSA), launched in January 2026. What has happened since is nothing short of a financial miracle.

Remember the days of "struggling and smiling," when the state treasury barely scraped together a meager ₦2 billion monthly in internally generated revenue (IGR), and everyone pretended that was acceptable?

Today, the numbers tell a new testimony. From that same TSA, Akwa Ibom now records ₦10 billion IGR in a single month. Let that sink in. A 400% leap in less than three months. Is the Lord not good?

But here is the deeper truth this season presses upon us. Miracles do not excuse memory. The same governor who now presides over this financial resurrection, who is now applauded for his superlative execution of his ARISE blueprint in just under 3 years in office, was once ready to walk away from politics. What a tragedy this would have been.

As the election season rounds the bend, my prayer for Governor Umo Eno as he competes again in the 2027 gubernatorial race is simply TSA, THOU SHALL ARISE, again!

And should the people remember, should they see your good works and acknowledge them accordingly, may they also tremble and reflect, as I have, on how narrow the path was, and how close you came to not taking it. And if we are honest, may we see your Administration as a miracle, as the very will of God.

One golden term deserves another!

By Ekemini James

Sunday afternoon in Uyo carried its usual calm, the kind that follows the solemnity of worship. Returning from church engagements in Calabar, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, made an unscheduled stop to inspect ongoing construction projects.

The visit took him to the construction site of the 60-Unit House of Assembly and Commissioners’ Quarters at the Dakkada Luxury Estate, where work is steadily progressing.

From there, the Governor proceeded to inspect other facilities under construction within the same axis, including the complex housing the Akwa Ibom Geographic Information System, the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Internal Security, the Command and Control Centre, and the Akwa Ibom Investment Corporation House at Dominic Utuk Avenue, Uyo.

But in the midst of that routine of governance and inspection, something memorable happened.

Leadership, it is often said, reveals itself most clearly in unscripted moments. While public office demands strategic thinking and administrative discipline, it also requires a heart that understands people, especially the young who represent the future of society.

A group of little children were seen returning from the church along the route. Their voices cheerful, and their minds still echoing the lessons from Sunday School.

And then, the Governor spotted them and asked the security to allow them come closer.

He greeted the children, asked them what they had learned in church, and listened as they shared their Sunday lessons with excitement and clarity.

The Governor encouraged them to remain faithful, obedient, and diligent in their studies. Before departing, he shared gifts with them, leaving behind memories the children will likely carry for a life time.

The encounter resonated with a timeless biblical injunction recorded in Matthew 19:14:

“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”

Governor Eno’s engagement with the children illustrates a blend of authority and tenderness that many citizens have come to associate with his personality.

For the children who met him, it was an unexpected blessing on a Sunday afternoon. For observers, it served as a reminder that the character of a leader is often revealed in the way he treats the smallest members of society.

In that fleeting roadside moment, Governor Umo Eno shows that leadership, at its best, is both firm in duty and gentle in spirit.

...urges civic participation of women in governance.

By Ekaette Okon-Joseph

The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, has announced a cooperative support fund of N20 million per ward for women across the state’s 369 wards, a financial intervention expected to inject about N7.38 billion into grassroots enterprises.

Eno disclosed this during a women’s mobilisation and sensitisation programme in Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, describing the initiative as a strategic effort to strengthen women-led businesses and expand economic opportunities at the community level.

The governor said the cooperative fund would be accessible to all women in Akwa Ibom State, irrespective of political affiliation, adding that the programme is designed to promote inclusive economic participation.

He explained that Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) would serve as part of the identification process for beneficiaries to ensure proper documentation and transparency in the disbursement of the funds.

“The money is meant to assist women in their small businesses and improve their economic activities across the wards,” Eno said.

He also commended the committee coordinating the initiative for embarking on a mobilisation tour across the 31 local government areas of the state to sensitise women on the programme and encourage broad participation.

Deputy Governor, Sen. Akon Eyakenyi thanked the governor for what she described as his consistent commitment to women’s empowerment and economic inclusion.

Eyakenyi urged women across the state to organise themselves into cooperative societies in order to benefit from the fund and other government empowerment programmes.

She also encouraged women to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards and complete their National Identification Number (NIN) registration to ensure seamless participation in government initiatives.

In her remarks, the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Helen Obareki, expressed appreciation to the people of Nsit Ubium for the warm reception accorded to the delegation.

Obareki described the visit as a homecoming and called on residents to continue supporting Governor Umo Eno, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and President Bola Tinubu.

The Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwa, represented by his wife, Dr. Inemesit Uwa, donated N5 million in support of the cooperative initiative and commended the governor for prioritising women’s economic empowerment.

Also speaking, the Oku Ibom Ibibio, His Eminence Nteyin Dr. Solomon Etuk, CFR, praised the governor for introducing the cooperative initiative, describing it as a programme capable of strengthening women’s businesses and supporting family welfare across communities.

Etuk offered prayers for divine guidance and wisdom for the governor as he continues to serve the people of the state.

The Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Capt. Iniobong Ekong, said Governor Eno had contributed significantly to the development of Nsit Ubium even before assuming office, adding that the administration’s policies were already translating into tangible community benefits.

Ekong thanked the governor for what he described as his sustained commitment to grassroots development.

The Special Adviser, Bureau of Cooperative Societies, Mrs. Alice Ekpenyong, said the cooperative initiative reflects the governor’s vision of positioning women as key drivers of economic growth in the state.

Ekpenyong explained that the government intends to disburse the funds directly through registered cooperative societies to eliminate intermediaries and ensure transparency.

She urged women across the wards to take advantage of the programme by registering with cooperative societies and participating actively in their operations.

The Chairman of the Uyo Capital City Development Authority (UCCDA), Rt. Hon. Anietie Eka, commended the governor for initiatives that directly impact women and children across the state.

Eka described women as central to family and community development, noting that empowering women strengthens the social and economic foundation of society.

In a show of support for the initiative, Barr. Eno Idem, SAN, donated N5 million, while former senator Effiong Bob, described as the governor’s guarantor, commended the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady for what he called the dignified and respectful manner in which she has managed the office.

Also speaking, the State Women Leader of the All Progressives Congress in Akwa Ibom, Obongawan Obonono Uko, said the mobilisation exercise was partly aimed at appreciating the women of Nsit Ubium for their continued support for the administration.

She added that the governor’s commitment to women’s empowerment reflects the values of discipline and service instilled in him by his family and community.

Officials said the cooperative initiative is expected to deepen financial inclusion among women at the grassroots and strengthen small-scale enterprises across the 369 wards of Akwa Ibom State.

Amos Etuk

The second edition of the Niger Delta Games took place from February 20-27, 2026 in the ancient city of Benin, Edo State.

It was the second edition of the Games following the maiden edition which took place last year in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State and featured nine States with 2,430 athletes.

Team Akwa Ibom featured 270 athletes, 46 Officials, 12 backroom Staff and participated in 16 sports.

In the maiden edition, Team Akwa Ibom placed Sixth and made a big leap this year placing fourth clearly an indication of the steady growth of sports development in Akwa Ibom State since Governor Umo Eno came into Office and his bold imprints in the sports sector that is beginning to harvest a haul of medals to the State.

At the just concluded Games, Team Akwa Ibom amassed 55 medals including 16 Gold, 17 Silver and 22 Bronze medals a huge leap from the 37 medals won at the inaugural edition.

In two years and ten months, sports under the ARISE Agenda of Governor Umo Eno has continued to witness new frontiers of successes. Every outlined programme in this sector has received tremendous moments of glory from the return of the Governor's Cup after more than a decade, the hosting of the MTN Championship for athletes in the country, the South South elimination series for the National Sports Festival and the main Games and the Akwa Ibom State Sports Festival.

The hosting of the Super Eagles for the Nations and World Cup qualifiers, hosting of Confederation of Africa Champions League Games and the National Judiciary Games are milestones that have today made Akwa Ibom State a destination in sports tourism.

Governor Umo Eno's determination and commitment in putting sports in Akwa Ibom State on the global reference of excellence is evident with the provision of new and modern equipment for all Associations in the State through the Ministry of Sports, the construction and completion of a Gymnasium, the first of its kind in the State for athletes and coaches to achieve maximum fitness at all phases of competitions, the construction of an all encompassing ARISE Sports Academy in Eket Local Government Area and the enhanced welfare that has motivated Team Akwa Ibom to be the best.

The second edition of the Niger Delta Games provided a litmus test and bigger platform in the last one year to showcase the strength of resilience and character of our athletes as our medal haul was dominant in athletics, boxing, weightlifting, Taekwondo, Tennis, Para - Powerlifting, Traditional Wrestling, Table Tennis, Scrabble and Swimming which recorded a historic Bronze.

Swimming has the largest medal haul at any Games from the National Sports Festival, All Africa Games, Commonwealth Games, Olympics and at the Niger Delta Games, the sport alone provided for 130 medals with more than 45 of them Gold medals and a lot of emphasis should be put in developing our interest and growth in this area

This is just the beginning. It is a testimonial that the sports sector in Akwa Ibom State is receiving adequate attention and the performance of athletes in the State has significantly improved as they shift focus to more competitive events including the Second edition of the Akwa Ibom Sports Festival coming up later in the year, the National Youth Games and the National Sports Festival.

The outstanding strides of Team Akwa Ibom athletes will surely attract national invitations to feature in the Commonwealth Games and other renowned events globally.

The Commissioner for Sports , Elder Paul Bassey in just one year in Office has successfully laid a new foundation for sports development in Akwa Ibom State with the templates of the ARISE Agenda.

His professional and patriotic leadership has changed the approach in sports administration. All through the Games in Benin, Edo State he was on ground at each venue alongside his Permanent Secretary in the Ministry,Mrs Rosemary Ubia motivating the athletes and ensuring that their welfare was paramount which inspired the team to achieve this leap .

Sports will continue to be one of the strongest platforms in giving our youths the best opportunities to excel, the best experience to mould raw talents, the best moments to put Akwa Ibom State on the podium of Champions and Governor Umo Eno is redefining this renaissance bringing back the glory days and making future stars.

Indeed,Akwa Ibom is Rising.

As the women of Nsit Atai Local Government Area converged for the ongoing Women Sensitization Tour on Civic Responsibilities, the member representing Uyo/Uruan/Nsit Atai/Ibesikpo Asutan Federal Constituency, Rep Mark Esset has assured Pastor Umo Eno, PhD that the entire Nsit Atai Women are in total support of his administration.

Esset made the assurance today, at the Women Sensitization Tour On Civic Responsibilities, hosted at Otuekong Raphael Bassey Unity Hall, Odot, Nsit Atai Local Government Headquarters.

With the Theme: "Women Arise", the sensitization programme is part of a statewide initiative aimed at encouraging women to embrace their civic responsibilities through electronic voter registration, acquisition of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and active participation in governance ahead of future elections.

Addressing the gathering, Rep Mark Esset commended the State Government delegation ably led by the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Akon Eyakenyi for taking the sensitization programme to Nsit Atai Local Government Area.

The Federal Rep member assured the delegation of the commitment of Nsit Atai women in supporting the administration of Pastor Umo Bassey Eno PhD.

"Your Excellency, the women of Nsit Atai are well schooled in the rudiments of politics. The have a record of involving actively in previous elections. In 2027 elections, the women will be more active. I want to assure you that Nsit Atai Women Are 100% in Support of Gov Umo Eno".

Esset lauded the wife of the Executive Chairman of Nsit Atai LGA, Mrs. Emem Anthony Nyong for her efforts in galvanizing the women of Nsit Atai and also sustaining the prayer summit legacy of his wife, Dr. Dorcas Esset.

He further reaffirmed the total support of the entire electorates of Nsit Atai to the President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR; Governor Umo Eno PhD; Senator Aniekan Bassey PhD; himself and Prince Prince-aniefiok Attah for their re-election in 2027.

The delegation comprised eminent government leaders and gender advocates, including the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, PhD, who was represented at the event by the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator (Dr.) Akon Eyakenyi PhD ; the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Noble Lady Helen Obareki; the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Iniobong Silas Etukudo; wife of the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Inemesit Uwah and others.

Addressing the women, the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, called on them to take the electronic registration exercise seriously, describing women as critical drivers of political stability and socio-economic growth.

Speaking on behalf of Governor Umo Eno, she reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to women inclusion, empowerment and welfare while noting that, full participation in the electoral process would strengthen women’s voices in governance and enable them to benefit maximally from government empowerment programmes, urging them to remain united and supportive of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Also speaking, the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Noble Lady Helen Obareki, conveyed the governor’s appreciation for the enthusiasm and solidarity consistently demonstrated by the women.

She encouraged women of Nsit Atai to sustain their support and translate it into meaningful civic and political engagement, noting that the present administration places high premium on the wellbeing of women and families.

The Women Sensitization Tour in Nsit Atai LGA did not only reinforced the critical role of women in democratic governance but also demonstrated the council’s commitment to inclusive, participatory, and transformative leadership aligned with the ARISE Agenda of Governor Umo Eno.

• 𝙈𝙚𝙙𝙞𝙖/𝙋𝙪𝙗𝙡𝙞𝙘𝙞𝙩𝙮 𝙐𝙣𝙞𝙩
𝙊𝙛𝙛𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙃𝙤𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙍𝙚𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙨 𝙢𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙚𝙧, 𝙐𝙮𝙤/𝙐𝙧𝙪𝙖𝙣/𝙉𝙨𝙞𝙩 𝘼𝙩𝙖𝙞/𝙄𝙗𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙠𝙥𝙤 𝘼𝙨𝙪𝙩𝙖𝙣 𝙁𝙚𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙡 𝘾𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙩𝙪𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙮

#MarkOfEffectiveRepresentation
#MarkOfTheGreenChamber
#UyoFederalConstituency

By Sifon Bassey


A video circulating on social media this week has ignited debate across Akwa Ibom State. In the footage, a crumbling school building, with leaking roofs, broken desks and bare floors, is presented as proof that the Pastor Umo Eno administration has done nothing for public education. The clip has been shared thousands of times, accompanied by damning captions. But the video, stripped of its context, tells only a fraction of the story. To understand the full picture, you need to go back to where this story truly begins: an unscheduled visit by a Governor who could not hide his anger.

In July 2023, barely weeks into his tenure, Governor Umo Eno made an impromptu stop at Christ the King Primary School on Wellington Bassey Way, Uyo. A school sitting just minutes from Government House. What he found there disturbed him deeply. The structures were dilapidated, learning materials were grossly inadequate, and the headmistress quietly revealed to journalists present that no sitting governor had ever visited that school before, despite its closeness to the seat of power. That detail alone should tell you something about how long this problem had been ignored.

Governor Eno did not leave and issue a press statement. He declared a state of emergency on primary education in Akwa Ibom State, right there, on record. He directed the immediate renovation and upgrading of public primary school facilities across all 31 local government areas. Christ the King School was immediately designated a pilot model: solar power, pipe-borne water, educational materials, staff quarters. That visit was not a photo opportunity. It was a reckoning, and it set the tone for everything that followed.

Here is what those sharing the viral video need to understand. Nobody in this administration has denied that many public schools in Akwa Ibom are in poor condition. The Governor himself said so, loudly, and in public. What they fail to tell you is the scale of what was inherited: decades of systemic neglect spread across hundreds of schools, in 31 local government areas, from riverine communities in Okobo and Mbo to the upland areas of Ini and Oruk Anam. No government, with any budget, can fix all of that simultaneously. The real question was never whether the problem existed. It was whether there was a credible, funded, and committed plan to fix it.

The answer is yes! There is a plan. The Pastor Umo Eno administration's model-school approach is deliberate and replicable. Rather than spreading resources thin across every school at once and delivering nothing of quality anywhere, the government constructs specific schools to a world-class standard: solar electricity, ICT laboratories, standard libraries, medical clinics, furnished staff quarters and fully equipped classrooms. Each completed school then becomes a proof point, a benchmark, a beacon for its community. Model primary schools have already been completed and commissioned in Uko-Oyukim in Oron LGA, Ikot Isong in Etinan LGA, Ikot Ibritam in Oruk Anam LGA, Afaha Itam in Itu LGA, and Holy Child Convent School in Abak, among several others. Over one million customised exercise books have been distributed to pupils in public schools. Ten thousand pupils have received free uniforms, shoes and school bags. WAEC and NABTEB examination fees are being paid by government for students in exit classes. Three model boarding secondary schools, one per senatorial district, are currently under active construction.

You are entitled to demand faster progress. That is your right as a citizen of this state. But there is a profound difference between a government that is moving with clear intent and a government that is doing nothing at all. The evidence in Akwa Ibom rules out the latter, completely. The video you are watching shows a problem that this Governor personally identified, publicly raged against, and formally declared an emergency over, in his very first weeks in office.

Transforming public education across a state of over seven million people, with hundreds of schools in communities sometimes only accessible by boat, does not happen in a single term of four years. What matters is that the work is real, the schools are going up, the children are receiving materials, and the plan is not a talking point but a measurable, commissioned reality. One school at a time, the ARISE Agenda is answering the crisis. Not perfectly, maybe not fast enough for some, but honestly and persistently. That is a government that is getting there. That is a governor that cares.

By Ekaette Okon-Joseph,

The Akwa Ibom State Government on Wednesday stepped up efforts to integrate women in fishing and fish processing into formal cooperatives, positioning Uruan’s vast aquatic economy as a launchpad for broader agricultural ecosystem development.

Speaking at a women’s mobilisation and sensitisation programme in Uruan Local Government Area on February 25, Deputy Governor, Akon Eyakenyi said the push for cooperative-based fishing and hygienic fish processing schemes would enable women to benefit from the state’s N31 billion cooperative fund earmarked for the 31 local government areas.

Eyakenyi described Uruan as a strategic fishing hub in Akwa Ibom, with strong trade and cultural links to other riverine communities across the Niger Delta. She said formalising women’s participation through cooperatives would not only boost household incomes but also strengthen the state’s agricultural value chain, from catch to processing, storage, and market access.

“Women who are into fishing can go into healthy processing. Through cooperatives, they can benefit from traders’ and farmers’ grants,” she said, linking the initiative to the broader agricultural ecosystem development agenda of the Eno administration.

The deputy governor said the initiative aligns with Gov. Umo Eno’s agricultural ecosystem agenda, which seeks to move primary producers, especially women, from subsistence operations to organised enterprises capable of attracting financing, improving standards, and scaling distribution.

Uruan, located along the Cross River estuary, is widely regarded as one of the state’s major fish-producing corridors, supplying fresh and smoked fish to markets within Akwa Ibom and neighbouring states. By organising women into registered cooperative societies, the government aims to channel grants and structured support directly to grassroots producers.

Eyakenyi said the cooperative model would serve as a transparent vehicle for distributing traders’ and farmers’ grants, ensuring equitable access across wards.

She also urged women to obtain valid voter registration and Permanent Voter Cards, stressing that civic participation strengthens their voice in governance and policy decisions that affect their livelihoods.

In her remarks, the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Noble Lady Helen Obareki, said the growing enthusiasm of women across the state demonstrates confidence in the administration’s inclusive development strategy She encouraged sustained engagement in cooperative societies and political processes.

The Chairman of Uruan Local Government Area, Iniobong Ekpenyong, thanked residents for their continued support and said ongoing infrastructure and community projects in the area reflect the administration’s commitment to development.

Commissioner for Women Affairs Inibehe Silas emphasised the importance of proper documentation, urging women to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards from the Independent National Electoral Commission and complete their National Identification Number registration to access government programmes seamlessly.

Other speakers at the event commended the state government’s women-focused policies, describing the cooperative fishing and processing scheme as a practical step toward inclusive economic growth in riverine communities.

With Uruan’s established fishing heritage and its connectivity to broader Niger Delta waterways, officials said the cooperative drive could transform informal fish trading networks into structured enterprises, deepening women’s financial inclusion and reinforcing agriculture as a pillar of Akwa Ibom’s economic diversification strategy.

Sen. Aniekan Bassey, represented by Kufreabasi Etuk, urged women to remain active in politics, thanking the governor for what he described as sustained support for women and children in Uruan.

Member representing Uruan State Constituency, Dr. Itoro Etim praised the governor’s backing for women, describing Uruan women as politically intelligent and historically active in grassroots mobilisation.

Commissioner for Internal Security Gen. Koko Essien said improved safety across the state should further motivate women to support the administration.

Political Adviser to the Governor, Dr. Godwin Ntuk Udeh said voter registration was gaining momentum in Uruan and highlighted ongoing road and hospital projects in the area.

Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service, Okon OKon, said the women of Uruan were ready to support the administration, while Dr. Inemesit Uwa, wife of the political leader of Uyo Federal Constituency and Secretary to the State Government, said the governor’s policies had positively impacted women across Akwa Ibom State.

With Uruan’s strategic role in the state’s fisheries value chain, officials said the cooperative drive could transform informal fish trading networks into structured enterprises, deepening women’s financial inclusion and reinforcing agriculture as a pillar of Akwa Ibom’s economic diversification strategy.

By Victor Oton

The Akwa Ibom State Government has firmly dismissed widespread reports suggesting that oil wells currently attributed to the state may be returned to Cross River State, describing the claims as speculative, misleading, and legally unfounded.

Speaking during a press conference in Uyo, the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Uko Udom, SAN, said the reports were a distortion of constitutional realities and a misrepresentation of ongoing administrative processes.

He clarified that the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) only received a draft report from a Federal Government Inter-Agency Committee on February 13, 2026, stressing that the document does not amount to a final decision, approved recommendation, or reallocation of oil wells. According to him, the Commission itself has publicly stated that the circulating claims are speculative and do not reflect any final position.

Hon. Udom emphasized that beyond procedural clarification lies the binding authority of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

He traced the dispute to Suit No. 124/1999, when Cross River State challenged Akwa Ibom State over boundary delineations, including the estuarine southern territory where the oil wells are located.
He recalled that on June 24, 2005, the Supreme Court ruled in favour of Cross River State only with respect to portions of the northern boundary, while dismissing its claims over the southern estuarine territory.

The apex court, he noted, relied on the October 10, 2002 judgment of the International Court of Justice on the Nigeria-Cameroon boundary, which fundamentally altered Cross River State’s coastal status following the cession of the Bakassi Peninsula.

The Attorney General further referenced the July 10, 2012 judgment of the Supreme Court, which reaffirmed that Cross River State was no longer a littoral state entitled to offshore derivation and described its claims as legally unsustainable.

The ruling, he said, firmly upheld Akwa Ibom State’s entitlement to the oil wells within its maritime boundaries.

Citing Section 235 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Hon. Udom stressed that decisions of the Supreme Court are final and binding on all authorities and persons throughout the federation.

He maintained that no inter-agency committee, technical panel, or administrative body can override, amend, or sit in appeal over a subsisting judgment of the apex court.

Hon. Udom assured citizens that no oil well has been ceded, no Supreme Court judgment has been overturned, and no constitutional provision has been amended.

He reiterated that all oil wells in question lie within Akwa Ibom State’s recognized maritime and littoral boundaries based on established hydrographic coordinates and legally enforceable adjudications.

The state government urged residents to remain calm and united, reaffirming its commitment to protecting the economic interests of Akwa Ibom State through lawful and constitutional means.
Also present at the briefing were the Honourable Commissioner for Information, Aniekan Umanah; the Commissioner for Finance and Special Duties, Emem Bob; the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ekerete Udoh; as well as other top government officials.

By Ekaette Okon-Joseph

The Akwa Ibom State Government has approved a ₦31 billion small-business support fund for 2026, allocating ₦1 billion to each of the state’s 31 local government areas in a major push to expand access to finance, stimulate grassroots enterprise and strengthen women-led businesses.


Gov. Umo Eno announced the package through the Deputy Governor, Sen. Akon Eyakenyi, during a women’s sensitisation and empowerment engagement in Etim Ekpo Local Government Area on Saturday.


Eyakenyi said the intervention forms part of the administration’s broader economic growth strategy aimed at reducing poverty, deepening financial inclusion and enabling women and small-scale entrepreneurs to build sustainable livelihoods.


She said each council would receive ₦1 billion dedicated to small and medium-scale enterprises, with beneficiaries drawn largely from agriculture, artisan trades and informal sector businesses.


“The governor is committed to ensuring that every woman can earn a living and provide for her household,” Eyakenyi said. “This ₦31 billion investment across the 31 local government areas is designed to open up access to capital for small businesses and strengthen our local economies.”


She added that about 1,000 women in Etim Ekpo alone are expected to benefit in the first phase of the programme, with similar rollouts planned statewide.


Beyond economic empowerment, Eyakenyi urged women to obtain their National Identification Number and complete electronic registration, describing both as necessary for civic participation and inclusion in government support initiatives.


Chairman of Etim Ekpo Local Government Area, Gideon Uwah, commended the state government for prioritising grassroots development, saying the funding would directly impact households and small traders across the area.


He described the governor’s approach as inclusive and people-driven, noting that it has strengthened public confidence in governance at the community level.


The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hon. Inibehe Silas, encouraged women to take full advantage of the opportunities by participating actively in both the empowerment programme and civic processes.


Commissioner for Youth Development, Dr Ekerette Ekanem, called on young people to also engage in entrepreneurship and political participation to attract more development to the area.


Special Adviser to the Governor on Bureau of Cooperatives, Rt. Hon. Alice Ekpenyong, urged women to form cooperatives to improve access to funding and resources, describing collective enterprise as key to scaling small businesses.


Also speaking, Senior Advocate of Nigeria and APC stalwart Emmanuel Enoidem said the administration’s focus on women’s economic growth and financial inclusion would strengthen local industries, particularly agriculture and palm oil production. He pledged ₦3 million to support women entrepreneurs in the area.


The engagement forms part of the state government’s broader plan to combine enterprise financing with grassroots mobilisation, positioning small businesses as drivers of economic expansion across Akwa Ibom.

... As A'Ibom State Trials end in Uyo

Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, has lauded athletes and coaches of the state for their performance at the just concluded state trials of the upcoming second Niger Delta Games.

The state trials which commenced last Thursday, January 30, and concluded yesterday, Tuesday, February 3, featured all sixteen approved sports of the games and culminated in the selection of 270 athletes who will fly state colours when the multi-sports championship gets under way in Edo state in a fortnight.

In a statement, Mr Bassey, a veteran sports administrator and technical official, described as top-notch the competitiveness, determination and desire that the athletes brought to the fore throughout the five-day exercise.

"I congratulate the athletes who got selected to represent our beloved state at the games, and urge them to go on and make our state and people proud."

"I congratulate the athletes who did not get selected, but who took part in the trials, because they have now earn themselves a place on our recently launched state sports database." Mr Bassey stated.

The sports boss went on to shower encomiums on the Niger Delta Development Commission - NDDC, sponsors of the games, for giving back to society, and eulogized Dunamis-Icon Limited, organizers of the games, for the professional touch it has given to the meet, noting that the games were capable of uniting the region and reshaping its future.

According to Mr Bassey, "These games are such a profitable way for the NDDC to give back to society through its corporate social responsibility; the economic, social and ethical values that these games bring are enormous." "Through these games, the NDDC has shown that there is indeed a future for this region beyond oil."

"While I thank the NDDC for sponsoring this championship, I also particularly thank the consulting firm for the games, Dunamis-Icon Limited, for the organizational proficiency, touch of professionalism and technical shrewdness that I have witnessed right from the maiden edition, last year, up until this edition."

The second Niger Delta Games, with the theme "Beyond oil: harnessing talents", will be held in Edo state from February 20 to 27, and will be competed by all nine states of the oil-rich region.

…As Deputy Governor, Stakeholders Sensitize Women on PVC Registration, Cooperatives

Women of Ukanafun Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State have declared their overwhelming support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Governor Pastor Umo Eno ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The endorsement was made through an affirmative voice vote during the Women Sensitization Tour on Civic Responsibilities, organised by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare on Monday, February 2, 2026, at the Ukanafun Local Government Council Hall.

Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, charged women to mobilise and actively participate in the ongoing Permanent Voter Card (PVC) and All Progressives Congress (APC) registration exercises.

She encouraged women who have attained the age of 18, as well as those with lost or damaged PVCs, to take advantage of the registration, replacement, and revalidation opportunities, stressing that the PVC remains the most critical instrument for democratic participation. She also highlighted the e-registration option as a convenient and stress-free alternative.

According to the Deputy Governor, the sensitisation exercise was aimed at ensuring that women are not excluded from decisions that shape governance, noting that their collective votes would be deployed in support of leaders who have delivered tangible dividends of democracy.

She cited the execution of 11 projects in Ukanafun by Governor Umo Eno’s administration in less than three years, including three strategic road projects, compassionate homes providing decent accommodation for vulnerable women, and healthcare facilities, and called for sustained support for the Governor.

Earlier, the Executive Chairman of Ukanafun Local Government Area, Hon. Uyo Ukpanah, commended Governor Umo Eno for the visible development projects in the area and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to mobilising women for PVC registration.

He assured that in 2027, the people of Ukanafun would turn out en masse to vote for President Tinubu, Senate President Akpabio, and Governor Umo Eno.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hon. Inibehe Silas, emphasised that the voter’s card remains the strongest tool for women to determine their leadership choices.

In her remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor, Bureau of Cooperatives and Rural Development, Mrs. Alice Ekpenyong, urged women to form and strengthen cooperative societies to enable them benefit from the state government’s empowerment and economic support programmes.

Other stakeholders who spoke at the event included the APC State Woman Leader, Obongawaan Obonodo Uko; wife of the APC State Chairman, Mrs. Ini Luisa Stephen Ntukekpo; wife of the PDP State Chairman, Mrs. Unyime Aniekan Akpan; wife of the Ukanafun Local Government Chairman, Mrs. Mmekut Ukpanah; the Member representing Ukanafun State Constituency, Hon. Emem Udom; and the Honorary Adviser to the Governor and former Member representing Ukanafun State Constituency, Hon. Charity Idio. They unanimously applauded the sensitisation drive and urged women to fully utilise the ongoing PVC registration exercise.

Dignitaries at the event included the wife of the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Inemesit Uwah; the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Aniekan Umanah; the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Eno Ibanga; the former Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Glory Edet, and other women leaders and stakeholders.

Earlier in the day, women of Ukanafun were treated to a medical sensitisation and outreach programme organised by the Ministry of Health, during which health talks were delivered and basic medical services provided.

The sensitisation tour forms part of the Akwa Ibom State Government’s broader strategy to deepen civic responsibility, promote inclusive governance, and ensure that women remain central to the socio-political and economic development of the state.

As Nsit Atai Ward 6 Pledges Loyalty to Tinubu, Akpabio, Gov Eno

... _Donates N1million For APC Registration Logistics_

In line with the directive of Governor Umo Eno, Leader of the All Progressives Congress APC in Akwa Ibom State, the Director of Research and Documentation, ARISE With Renewed Hope Initiative, Obongunwana (Elder) Iniobong Obot, on Friday, led the charge for early grassroots mobilisation in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Obot, who also serves as the Coordinator of President Tinubu’s re election campaign in Nsit Atai Local Government Area, gave the charge at the APC statewide meeting held in his ward at Eastern Nsit Ward 6, Nsit Atai LGA.

Addressing the fully mobilised gathering, the philanthropist said the meeting went beyond routine party activities, noting that it was aimed at strengthening grassroots structures and expanding party membership through the ongoing electronic registration exercise.

Obongunwana Obot charged party members to move beyond verbal endorsements to concrete political action, stressing that sustained mobilisation at the grassroots remains the backbone of electoral success.

He assured that the ward will intensify efforts towards registering new party members, obtaining and safeguarding their Permanent Voter Cards and maintaining internal unity, noting that electoral victory in 2027 would be driven by organised, disciplined and committed ward structures.

In a unanimous show of support, stakeholders, traditional rulers, youth and women leaders of Ward 6 reaffirmed their loyalty to President Tinubu, Senate President Akpabio, Governor Umo Eno and Rt Hon ((Elder) Mark Esset who is an illustrious son of Nsit Atai and member representing Uyo/Ibesikpo Asutan/Uruan/Nsit Atai Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, pledging to work assiduously towards delivering massive votes for the party in the next general elections.

They described Obot’s presence as a morale booster and assured him of the ward’s readiness to play a leading role in consolidating the APC’s strength across Nsit Atai Local Government Area.

The meeting also provided a platform to reinforce party unity, re energise members and align ward activities with the broader objectives of the APC ahead of future political engagements, even as Obongunwana Obot made a huge financial contribution of One Million Naira to support mobilisation and sustain the momentum generated at the meeting as well as logistics for registration of new APC members.

By Ekaette Okon Joseph

Akwa Ibom State Gov. Umo Eno has called on residents to support the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, his government and candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections, citing ongoing development projects and inclusive governance across the state.

The governor made the call through his deputy, Dr. Akon Eyakenyi, during a Women Sensitisation Tour on Civic Responsibilities organised by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare at the Urue Offong Oruko Local Government council hall on Wednesday.

Eyakenyi said the Umo Eno administration is currently executing 11 projects in Urue Offong Oruko Local Government Area, describing them as evidence of the government’s commitment to grassroots development and equitable distribution of public resources.

She said the projects reflect deliberate interventions under the ARISE Agenda aimed at addressing infrastructure and social needs in the area and across the Oro Federal Constituency.

According to her, the scale of ongoing projects underscores the governor’s inclusive leadership approach and justifies sustained political support beyond 2027 to consolidate the gains recorded so far.

Eyakenyi urged women to take ownership of their civic responsibilities ahead of the 2027 elections by ensuring they possess valid Permanent Voter Cards.

She said the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is currently conducting Continuous Voter Registration for new voters, replacement of lost cards and transfer of voter details, and encouraged eligible women to participate actively in the process.

Also speaking, Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Noble Lady Helen Eno Obareki, said the sensitisation tour was designed to mobilise women across the state to support the re-election of President Tinubu, Gov. Umo Eno and APC candidates.

She conveyed the governor’s appreciation to the people of Urue Offong Oruko for their support in the 2023 elections and urged them to surpass that performance in the next polls.

Obareki said the administration is addressing socio-economic challenges in the area through targeted interventions under the ARISE Agenda and encouraged women to participate in economic empowerment programmes, revalidate their APC membership and engage in the Continuous Voter Registration exercise.

Earlier, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hon. Inibehe Silas Etukudoh, said the sensitisation programme was organised to clearly define the role of women as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify.

She urged women to obtain their PVCs, ensure their names are on the APC register and mobilise support for President Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Gov. Umo Eno.

In his remarks, Chairman of Urue Offong Oruko Local Government Area, Mr. Unoh Etim Unoh, commended the administration for initiating people-centred projects in the area, including the 2.9-kilometre Secretariat Road, a Model Primary Health Centre in Eyulor and ARISE Compassionate Homes.

The event also featured goodwill messages and a fundraising exercise, which realised N10.7 million in donations from stakeholders, including the council chairman, the member representing Oron Federal Constituency, Mr. Martins Esin, and other political leaders.

‎‎...As Women Mobilised on Civic Responsibility, APC Support Ahead of 2027
‎
‎By Lucy Daniel
‎
‎Women in Akwa Ibom State have been urged to take full ownership of their civic responsibilities, particularly voter registration, political participation and economic cooperation, as the State Government rolled out its Women Sensitization Tour on Civic Responsibilities, tagged “Women ARISE.”
‎The sensitization programme, organised by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, took place at the Council Hall, Urue Offong Oruko Local Government Area, drawing women leaders, stakeholders and community members from across the area.
‎
‎Speaking at the event, the First Lady Designate, Mrs Helen Eno Obareki, said the tour was aimed at mobilising women to actively support the re-election of candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.
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‎Mrs Obareki told the gathering that her message was simple and straightforward: to work towards the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, and Senator Godswill Akpabio, alongside other APC candidates.
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‎She conveyed the appreciation of Governor Umo Eno to the people of Urue Offong Oruko for their massive support during the 2023 governorship election, noting that the Governor was aware of the socio-economic challenges confronting the area and had already commenced several developmental interventions in Urue Offong Oruko and the Oro Federal Constituency in general.
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‎According to her, having performed well in 2023, the Governor expects even greater support in 2027 to enable him continue delivering people-oriented projects across the state.
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‎The First Lady Designate also charged women to take advantage of the various economic empowerment programmes under the ARISE Agenda, stressing that women empowerment remains central to family stability and community development. She further urged them to revalidate their APC membership and participate actively in the Continuous Voters Registration (CVR) exercise by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
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‎In her remarks, the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, disclosed that the Umo Eno administration was currently executing 11 key projects in Urue Offong Oruko Local Government Area.
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‎She said the Governor had demonstrated strong commitment to the development of the area and deserved overwhelming support to do more beyond 2027. The Deputy Governor explained that her presence was also to sensitize women on the importance of possessing valid voters’ cards ahead of the 2027 elections.
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‎Senator Eyakenyi noted that INEC was making provisions for new registrations, replacement of lost cards and registration of eligible citizens who had attained the age of 18, urging women to seize the opportunity.
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‎Earlier, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hon. (Mrs) Inibehe Etukudoh, said the sensitization tour was undertaken by the mandate of Governor Umo Eno to ensure women are adequately informed and empowered to serve as advocates of civic responsibility in their communities.
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‎“By the mandate of His Excellency, we are here to educate you on voter registration so that you will go back to your villages and educate others,” she said.
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‎She emphasized that ownership of voters’ cards remains a powerful tool for inclusive governance, especially as women constitute a significant percentage of the voting population. She also encouraged women to form ARISE Cooperatives, describing them as vehicles for financial inclusion, collective bargaining and access to government empowerment programmes.
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‎The Commissioner further spoke on health education, reminding participants that sound health is essential for productivity and societal contribution.
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‎In a welcome address, the Chairman of Urue Offong Oruko Local Government Area, Uno Etim Uno, expressed appreciation to the state government, noting that the women were happy not just because of the visit, but because of the Governor’s visible performance in the area.
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‎He listed several completed and ongoing projects including access roads, health centres, bridges, transformers, solar water projects, renovated halls, teachers’ quarters and other infrastructure interventions.
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‎Goodwill messages were delivered by political appointees and stakeholders including Mrs Mary Abia, Okon Tom Osung, Hon. Precious Selong, Hon. Martins Esin, and the APC Chapter Women Leader, Mrs Affiong Bassey, all of whom pledged total support for Governor Umo Eno’s second-term bid and APC candidates in 2027.
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‎The Women Sensitization Tour is expected to continue across communities in Akwa Ibom State, deepening awareness on civic duties, voter registration, cooperative formation and women’s empowerment, in line with the inclusive governance vision of the ARISE Agenda.
‎

...conveys message of hope, joy to inmates, orphans, ors



In a remarkable display of compassion and kindness, The Apostolic Church Nigeria Uyo District, led by District Pastor Aniedi Umoh, paid a visit to correctional center and orphanage homes in Uyo, Ikot Ekpene, and Itu Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom State. The visit, which was part of the church's 21-day fasting and prayer program, aimed to spread joy, hope, and love to the less privileged.

During the visit, Pastor Umoh assured the inmates and orphans that their position in society is not taken for granted and that God will safely guide them in their life journey. He stated that the church had a 21-day fasting and prayer program, and God had placed in their hearts to conclude it with this divine visit.

The team visited the Medium Security Custodial Center in Uyo, where the officer in charge expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the church for this great visit. He noted that The Apostolic Church Nigeria Uyo District was the first Apostolic Church to visit the correctional center, and he prayed for God's abundant blessings on the church.

The team also visited three orphanage homes, including Divine Children's Home in Atan Offot, Uyo, Government Children's Home on Chubb Road, Ikot Ekpene, and Foundation for the Marooned in Itu LGA. The orphanage homes received and thanked the church for their gift to the children, praying for endless blessings and prosperity for the church and the entire Christian community.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of food items, clothing, and other valuable gifts to the inmates and orphans. The church members prayed for the recipients, wishing them God's blessings and protection.

The visit was a resounding success and was a testament to the church's commitment to serving humanity and spreading the love of God to all.

#ServicetoGodandHumanity
#tacnuyodistrict

- Samuel Ayara

“With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts” - Eleanor Roosevelt.

There is a consequential win for the future of Akwa Ibom State, accompanied by an avalanche of new strengths and ideas capable of ushering in a new day. The strongest of what was left when Governor Umo Eno took a walk from the Peoples Democratic Party to All Progressives Congress has embraced the progressive movement.

As all roads lead to the Etim Ekpo Stadium for the official reception of the Former National Legal Adviser of the PDP and National Chairman of the Maintain Peace Movement, Barr. Emmanuel Enoidem, SAN, to the APC, the floodgates of political commentaries on political goings-on in the Land of Promise have been thrown open.

Barr. Enoidem is not just one in the listings of new progressives, he was the Peoples Democratic Party candidate for the Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District seat in the 2023 general election. Whatever division of the narrative we choose, he was on the ballot both as a matter of his right and in defense of the political interests and ideology of his party.

More than his senatorial ambition, Enoidem who was National Chairman of the Maintain Peace Movement, a political machinery that midwifed the emergence of Governor Umo Eno as the fifth democratically elected Governor of the State, when it mattered most stuck to his convictions, daring where angels would not, even when it was never convenient.

He nonetheless lived his words in the promise to see his former party through its last days. And more than the ego of resisting the numerous voices of reason and overtures, especially the Governor’s, the learned silk is simply reuniting with his political family to deepen gains of an administration he traversed various communities, hamlets and courtrooms to bring to life.

Assuming the last of his roles in the PDP were to be that of a pallbearer, posterity would judge him fair that he left the PDP’s sepulchre as the last of its longest and devoted adherents in the State. Having stayed on from its 1998 inception, playing very critical roles, long after all its founding fathers had taken a walk.

Enoidem can be many things, but certainly not a man who caves in on friends or convictions. Picking up on his long-held culture of going the extra mile for Governor Umo Eno clearly aligns with his character of respect for leadership. Obong Victor Attah, Chief Godswill Akpabio and Mr. Udom Emmanuel, as Governors enjoyed same, while they held sway at the Hilltop mansion.

Having given his best at conscientiously threading the mills of rewriting the narratives for the Akwa Ibom project in over three decades, those who hate him just do not deserve him. But for every crusader of truth - courage, and audacity to do right has found another reason and voice in a familiar body.

Whether as a member of the State Working Committee of the PDP, or Member of the State Executive Council under two Governors, Member of the National Working Committee of his Party, a critical component of various political vehicles and even his service in the temple of justice, one thing is incontrovertible; there cannot be more than one Enoidem.

An incurable optimist who trusts the best in every process. Not taking the all-familiar court option that has become the reality of every electoral process in Nigeria, indubitably energized the focus that led to the emergence of the eventual winner of the 2023 election, as President of Nigeria’s Senate. A prove that he knows when to draw blood and when to walk away.

When Governor Umo Eno decided to join the APC in June 2025, it was in a widely applauded enlightened State interest. January 2026 presents another of such reasons; Enoidem’s movement in aligning with the Governor’s interest is already a validation of Akwa Ibom’s widely held sentiments of gratitude for Nigeria’s gift of the Senate Presidency, after over four decades.

Make no mistake, beyond a capture, this would easily pass for the entrance of order, where chaos was once thought to hold sway. Old friends and comrades have suddenly found the key to a room that once prioritized Akwa Ibom, a fair deal that would in the long run present the State as a united front to the larger Nigeria.

At the centre of the cross-narrative of whatever happened between Godswill Akpabio and Emmanuel Enoidem, is Governor Umo Eno, who is fixated on mobilizing Akwa Ibom beyond past wounds. Supporters of Akpabio and Enoidem who prefer grandstanding had better been reminded that the goodwill the Senate President enjoys in no way invalidates Enoidem’s quest to be a voice for his people. Both men have in one warm embrace tuned away from the noise.

G.T. Shedd, a Professor of Theology at Union Theological Seminary in New York, knew the difference between a ship on sea and habour, when he said, “a ship at the harbor is safe, but that is not where ships are built for.” Enoidem in living up to his Statesman’s duties is back on the turf to mobilize support for leadership that prioritizes the people.

The entrance of this reliable war horse, in elevating patriotism above ego and scars of old, has become a new and cheering chapter for the Akwa Ibom United mantra. Governor Eno is no merchant of peace for the books, he has shown it in his transformative approach to rallying men and resources to common goals.

In one warm embrace, the PDP strong man has announced the emergence of the first of the 109 Senators that would constitute the 11th Senate. Winning for the party its first seat, ahead of other Senatorial Districts, before the first ballots.

This is a significant milestone that will allow Senator Akpabio the opportunity of pitching gains of peace building, as he moves around the country unencumbered at home, campaigning for the return of President Bola Tinubu.

A reunion that has handed APC a challenge that would test its holding capacity, Emmanuel Enoidem’s baggage-free progressive movement has come at a time Akwa Ibom’s bigger win, in its imminent glory must be worth its weight in gold and numbers.

This is a partnership that would engender the rebirth of a valuable and peaceable political paradigm that generations ahead would without fail, applaud.

Samuel Ayara writes from Ibong Otoro in Abak LGA.

••• Assures Landslide Victories for Tinubu, Gov Eno, Akpabio, APC candidates_

By our Correspondent

The International Coordinator of the ARISE With Renewed Hope Initiative, Rt. Hon. (Sir) Udo Kierian Akpan, has projected that the 2027 general elections in Akwa Ibom State will be the most peaceful in the state’s political history, while also producing the highest number of votes ever recorded.

Kierian, a former Deputy Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, expressed strong confidence that the All Progressives Congress (APC) would secure overwhelming victories for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Umo Eno, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and all candidates the party would field in the state.

Speaking during a radio engagement on Comfort 95.1fm, Uyo, the former labour leader said the current political climate in Akwa Ibom has been fundamentally altered by Governor Umo Eno’s leadership style, which he described as inclusive, calm, and deliberately unifying.

According to him, the peace and political stability currently enjoyed across the state have dismantled long-standing divisions and created an atmosphere where development thrives and political participation can flourish without tension.

The Oruk Anam born heavyweight politician noted that the emergence of the ARISE With Renewed Hope Initiative was driven by the need to consolidate unity, deepen reconciliation, and shield governance from avoidable political distractions as the state moves toward 2027.

He said the task of political mobilisation had been eased by what he described as Governor Eno’s visible performance across key sectors, stressing that governance outcomes, rather than rhetoric, now define political conversations in Akwa Ibom.

The former Deputy Speaker highlighted the governor’s grassroots-driven approach, pointing out that the administration has institutionalised direct engagement through ward-level political structures and constituency-wide consultations that allow citizens to articulate their needs for government action.

Akpan observed that Akwa Ibom has become more attractive to investors, visitors, and stakeholders due to sustained peace, noting that development can only be meaningful where stability exists.

Kierian also reaffirmed that the state’s renewed political relevance at the national level must be protected, describing the presence of the Senate President as a strategic advantage that should not be taken for granted.

He urged Akwa Ibom people to rally behind the APC to strengthen the state’s connection to the centre, arguing that political cohesion remains the surest path to sustained federal presence and economic benefits.

On the national scene, Kierian called for continued support for President Tinubu, stating that ongoing economic reforms are already yielding results, including improved fiscal inflows to states and gradual relief in food prices.

He stressed that the goal of the ARISE With Renewed Hope Initiative is to keep the political space stable, organised, and supportive, allowing Governor Eno to concentrate fully on governance and service delivery.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Labour Relations concluded that with the calibre of leaders within the APC in Akwa Ibom, the 2027 elections would not only be peaceful but historic in voter turnout, describing victory for the party as inevitable if unity is sustained.

…Reaffirms Commitment to Grassroots Development

By Ekemini Akwaowo

The Member representing Uruan State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon. (Dr.) Itoro Etim, says her recent wide-ranging empowerment and constituency engagement programme, complements the ARISE Agenda of Governor Umo Eno which prioritizes human capital development, youth empowerment, and inclusive economic growth.

Dr. Etim, speaking on a live radio programme 'ARISE Akwa Ibom' said the initiative aligns with her constitutional responsibilities as a legislator and aims at strengthening means of livelihoods and deepen grassroots development in the area.

According to her, the empowerment programme was deliberately structured to go beyond welfare support, focusing instead on sustainable economic impact through skills acquisition and enterprise support.

“Representation goes beyond lawmaking and oversight. You must return to your people to report, engage them, and empower them to improve their lives".

She explained that beneficiaries were selected across all wards in Uruan through ward-based committees to ensure fairness, transparency, and inclusiveness.

Items and support distributed included 60 sewing machines, tricycles, grinding machines, hairdressing and barbing kits, ICT and phone-repair starter packs, as well as business grants and cash support amounting to several millions of naira.

Financial assistance was also provided to Uruan indigenes at the Nigerian Law School, alongside support for women groups, youths, widows, and small business owners.

Etim noted that the empowerment followed earlier vocational trainings in fashion design, ICT, and phone repairs, which involved more than 170 constituents, stressing that skill acquisition was key to long-term self-reliance.

“I believe training must come before empowerment. When people have skills, whatever support they receive can grow and create jobs for others".

Beyond constituency engagement, the lawmaker highlighted her legislative contributions, including motions calling for improved sanitation facilities in public schools, rehabilitation of water and electricity infrastructure, revival of abandoned model schools, and government intervention in erosion-prone communities.

She also underscored the importance of cooperation between the executive and legislature, noting that effective governance thrives on synergy rather than rivalry.

“Where there is understanding between arms of government, development moves faster and the people benefit".

Commending Governor Umo Eno’s gender-inclusive governance approach, Etim said the increased participation of women in leadership positions across the state reflects a deliberate policy of inclusion and capacity-building.

She assured constituents that the empowerment programme was only the first phase, with further interventions planned as resources permit, and urged beneficiaries to use the support responsibly to expand their businesses and contribute to local economic growth.

“I was elected to serve, and I remain committed to effective representation that delivers real value to the people".

...Flags off construction of Chairman's Lodge in Essien Udim

...Says initiative aimed at ensuring Chairmen become more available, affordable and accessible to their people

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, PhD, says the prevailing bond of love, support and solidarity among Essien Udim Stakeholders on one hand and his administration on the other hand is one that cannot be broken or compromised.

Governor Eno who stated this on Wednesday, when he flagged off the construction of the Chairman's official residence in Essien Udim LGA, reiterated his administration's resolve to continue to implement policies that will impact positively on the rural communities.

Represented by the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Hon Emem Ibanga, the Governor stated that the multi-million naira edifice which upon completion will be an architectural masterpiece is aimed at ensuring Council Chairmen reside permanently at their domain and become more available, affordable and accessible to their people,. The edifice he noted will also have a Meeting Hall, Boys Quarters, Security Post, Generator House, among others.

"Through the Chairman of Essien Udim, I love the leadership, partnership and collaboration I am seeing in Essien Udim LGA. I see unity. I see that bond that cannot be broken and with this bond we can achieve a whole lot", he stated.

He thanked the women for their love and support to his administration and the men for being the backbone and source of strength and inspiration for the women.

The Commissioner noted with delight that as part of a conscious and strategic effort at empowering Akwa Ibom youths and experts, the Governor also awarded the contract to an Essien Udim son, a testament to his policy of ensuring competent local contractors are empowered to create jobs for the youths and be self sustaining and reiterated his faith in the contractors competence, professionalism and ability to deliver quality job and timely project delivery.

He called on other youths to get busy with skills so that whenever opportunities arise, there will be no need to source for a contractor from outside Essien Udim.

Governor Eno who paid tributes to the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, GCON and his Wife, Dr Mrs Uloma Akpabio, the Chairman, Hon Elder Ntiedo Usoro, and his cabinet, the Member Representing Essien Udim State Constituency Prince Ukpong Akpabio II KSJI, all Essien Udim Stakeholders, the Clan Head of Ukana and all the Village Heads present for their love, support and solidarity since coming into office.

"I can see sincere love. I can see true love and sincerity in your eyes and your actions and I stand to appreciate you from my heart".

"I am happy for the support my administration has received from Essien Udim since coming into office".

"In unity we can achieve more.
Thank you so.much Essien Udim people for all your love and support because without your love and support, probably we would not be sitting together like this. I appreciate you and pray that this unity, love, oneness, and bond continues and increases", he stated.

According to Hon Ibanga, the Governor represents peace, unity and believes in the power of togetherness.

"He is the reason we are all seated here today. I want to thank you for supporting the Governor from inception till now. I want to assure you of his commitment to the people of Akwa Ibom State. There is no programme of project executed at the state level that does not trickle down to the grassroots".

"From your words, you have said it yourself that the Governor believes in grassroot development. His manner of approach to governance is from bottom to top. Together we will achieve more", he stated.