The governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno, has assured of his determination to run an all-inclusive government devoid of discrimination in age, ethnicity, and political party lines. He said everyone, including the elderly, must be included in all government policies and programmes.
The governor stated this during the grand – finale of the widows’ outreach programme held at Ndiya community in Ikono local government area, hosted by Ms. Emem Usoro, the deputy governor in – charge of Operations at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), on her birthday.
Lauding the private initiative of the CBN chief, which he noted, has complemented government’s efforts in human development, Governor Eno, announced plans by his administration to host a Corporate Summit in the state in 2025, as a platform to launch a government – private sector initiative for Akwa Ibom development.
He explained that “the event will serve as a platform for Akwa Ibom indigenes who are key players in the corporate world to contribute meaningfully to the development of the state.”
According to the governor, the state is blessed with prominent figures in the corporate sector whose wealth of experience should be leveraged to drive further developments, and commended Ms. Usoro for her initiative which he described as “a thoughtful effort to give back to her community.”
He noted that the initiative aligns with the ARISE Agenda, particularly in the areas of rural development and healthcare management.
The governor, however, outlined some of his administration’s ongoing life-transforming projects in Ikono, including the re-awarding of the contract for the 10.9km Ikot Ayan-Urua Naira-Ikot Nseyen-Nung Ukim Road, which features two 40-meter-span bridges.
“The project will connect communities like Nsai Use, Use-Ikot Amama, Ibiaku Ikot Esifa, Utong Mmong, and Nkwot Edem Edet, spanning Ibiono Ibom and Ikono LGAs,” he explained.
Additionally, he revealed that funds have been released for the renovation of Lutheran Primary School, Ikot Akpa Edok, Ndiya, which served as the venue for the widows’ outreach, assuring the people of more developmental projects in the area.
Responding, Ms. Usoro, expressed gratitude to the governor for attending the event and celebrating her birthday with her, describing his impactful development initiatives in Ikono LGA and the state, as a gesture well cherished.
