A coalition of prominent sons and daughters of Akwa Ibom State, the Akwa Ibom Unity Forum (AUF), has appealed to President Bola Tinubu for the federal government’s intervention in critical developmental projects in the state.
In a statement released in Uyo, the AUF emphasised the significance of Governor Umo Eno’s recent endorsement of President Tinubu’s re-election bid, saying it was a bold and constitutionally grounded decision. They noted that this endorsement has garnered substantial support from the people of Akwa Ibom, positioning the state as a strong ally in the president’s future political endeavours.
The AUF recalled that in a historic meeting on February 28, 2025, Governor Eno and the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, led 104-member delegates to the presidential villa in Abuja.
During the visit, the governor presented three pivotal requests to the president, including urgent federal intervention in addressing ecological disasters affecting the state, support for the development of the Ibom Deep Sea Port and an invitation for the president to undertake a state visit to commission key projects.
The AUF underscored the transformative potential of the Ibom Deep Sea Port, describing it as a strategic asset that would not only bolster the state’s economy but also serve as a vital maritime hub for the nation and the Central African region.
They stressed that federal backing is crucial to actualise this project, which promises to create numerous job opportunities and enhance Nigeria’s non-oil revenue streams.
The forum also highlighted the pressing need for federal assistance in mitigating ecological challenges that have plagued various parts of Akwa Ibom, including severe erosion threatening infrastructure and livelihoods.
They appealed for reimbursement of substantial funds that the state has already expended on disaster management efforts.
The Forum also reiterated the importance of President Tinubu’s visit to Akwa Ibom, suggesting that such an engagement would not only strengthen federal-state relations but also provide an opportunity for the president to witness firsthand the developmental strides made under Governor Eno’s administration.
The forum is made up of members of different parties and the appeal was endorsed by a distinguished array of Akwa Ibom stakeholders, including Rt Hon Udeme Otong, Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly; Senator Ekong Sampson, representing Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District; Moses Ekpo, former deputy governor; Obong Umana Okon Umana, a former minister; Atuekong Don Etiebet, a former minister; Rt Hon Chief Ndueso Essien, former minister; Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien; Senator Effiong Bob; Dr Emmanuel Ekuwem; Chief Assam Assam, SAN; Rt Hon Francis Uduyok; Hon Blessing Umoh (IPAC); Aparawa James Edet, International President of Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio/ Akwa Ibom Union; Aniekpeno Mkpanang, international president of Ati Annang; Sir Esang Nsa Bassey, president general of Oron Union; Rt Hon (Prof) Ini Udoka; Senator Aloysius Etok and Arc Otu Ita Toyo.
The forum expressed confidence that President Tinubu’s favourable response to these requests would not only validate Governor Eno’s support but also exemplify a commitment to equitable development and national unity.
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