Akwa Ibom Seeks Partnership To Grow SMEs

Akwa Ibom State government has expressed concern over the prevailing socio-economic downturn threatening effective administration of the subnational system, stressing the need for economic diversification for sustainable development.

Towards this end, the administration of Governor Umo Eno, at the weekend extended its hands of fellowship to the financial services sector for synergy to strengthen the private sector investments, especially in facilitating the growth of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMSEs).

He, therefore, assured that his administration would continue to foster a friendly business environment in order to attract more investors to the state.

Speaking at the opening of a new branch of Premium Trust Bank (PTB), in Uyo, the state capital, the governor, represented by his deputy, Dr Akon Eyakenyi, explained that his administration “will continue to remain focused on the sustenance of peace and security in the state, to attract investments, promote tourism and ensure the economic prosperity of the people.”

Emphasising the importance of partnership with the financial services sector in driving the state’s economic growth through SMSEs, he expressed delight at the bank’s intentional programmes to support the development of youths in the country.