Governor Eno Okays N121.5bn For Projects, Pensioners’ Gratuities

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has approved the release of ₦120 billion for payment to contractors handling projects at various sites across the State.

Besides, the Governor also approved the immediate release of ₦1.5 billion for the continued payment of outstanding gratuities owed to retired public servants.

Disclosing this to Journalists in Uyo, the state capital, the Commissioner for Information, Dr Aniekan Umanah, explained that the payment to contractors became necessary to accelerate ongoing infrastructure works across the 31 local government areas.

“The payment is to enable them to remain on site and promptly take advantage of the current dry season to intensify construction activities and deliver projects within agreed timelines.

“We wish to state here that the payment made is limited to contractors with submitted, duly vetted, and approved Interim Payment Certificates (IPCs).

“The intervention is expected to significantly accelerate work on critical projects across the State, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to timely project delivery and value for money,” he explained.

Additionally, the commissioner stated that the Governor’s ₦1.5 billion for gratuities was to further reduce the backlog of ₦112 billion he inherited from successive administrations dating back to 2012.

“With this latest payment, the total amount disbursed for gratuities to date stands at ₦76.665 billion, covering up to May 2021,” he explained.

The commissioner continued that Governor Eno has consistently emphasised that the welfare of workers and retirees remains a core priority of this administration, alongside the delivery of impactful projects that improve the quality of life of Akwa Ibom people.

“This development underscores the administration’s resolve to combine fiscal discipline, infrastructure acceleration, and social responsibility, in line with the ARISE Agenda.

“The Governor wishes the people a happy and prosperous 2026 and assures that the administration will continue to work hard in the new year for the full realisation of the ARISE Agenda for the people,” he stressed.