RismadarVoice Reporters, May 30, 2026
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to completing all ongoing projects across the state, saying the implementation of the ARISE Agenda remains focused on improving the lives and welfare of citizens.
The governor pledged on Friday night during a variety night held at the Club House Arena, ARISE Palm Resort, Uyo, to commemorate the third anniversary of his administration.
Speaking at the event, Eno said his government would continue to pursue projects, programmes and policies aimed at enhancing the security, social well-being and economic prosperity of Akwa Ibom people.
He noted that the choice of venue for the celebration was symbolic, describing the ARISE Palm Resort as a major success story of his administration.
According to him, the resort, which now serves as a world-class tourism destination, was previously a severe gully erosion site before it was reclaimed and transformed.
“The event was intentionally hosted here because this project represents our commitment to projects that impact lives and benefit the people, not projects designed for self-glorification,” the governor said.
Reflecting on the administration’s achievements over the past three years, Eno said Akwa Ibom had continued to justify its reputation as a “Promise Land” and a place where aspirations are fulfilled.
While acknowledging the progress made so far, he maintained that significant work still lies ahead and called for continued support from residents to consolidate the gains already recorded.
The governor also expressed appreciation to his predecessor, former Governor Udom Emmanuel, for his support and role in his emergence as governor in 2023.
He further thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio for their support of his administration and political aspirations.
As political activities ahead of the 2027 elections gather momentum, Eno appealed to politicians to conduct their campaigns with civility and focus on issues rather than personal attacks.
“Let’s keep it simple and easy. Let’s keep away from the name-calling and the insults. Let’s talk about issues. Let’s tell Akwa Ibom people what we will do for them,” he said.
The governor commended the attendance of leaders from different political parties at the anniversary celebration, describing it as a reflection of a shared commitment to the development of the state beyond partisan considerations.
Earlier, the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, described the occasion as a celebration of impactful governance and highlighted several achievements recorded by the administration in the last three years.
According to him, these include the payment of over N80 billion in outstanding gratuities, the completion of the new terminal building at Victor Attah International Airport, the commencement of international flight operations from Uyo to Ghana, the construction of model primary healthcare centres and schools, over 438 compassionate homes, the International Convention Centre, rehabilitation of Ibom Hotel, the tree crops revolution programme, and ongoing road and bridge projects.
Uwah disclosed that about 1,304 kilometres of roads and 41 bridges have either been completed or are currently under construction across the state.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of cheques to winners of the ARISE Home Farmers Scheme 2.0.
Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr Offiong Offor, revealed that participation in the programme increased significantly from just over 600 entries in its inaugural edition in 2024 to 15,621 entries in 2025.
She attributed the growth to increasing public acceptance of the government’s Back-to-Farm initiative.
Offor explained that the programme encourages residents to engage in home-based food production, including vegetable cultivation, poultry farming and aquaculture, to improve food security and household incomes.
She also commended Governor Eno for increasing the number of winners from 50 to 100 participants.
“This is not just a competition; it is a wake-up call for people to participate in food production from their homes,” she said.
