RismadarVoice Reporters
May 30, 2026
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to completing all ongoing and inherited projects as part of the ARISE Agenda, saying government programmes will continue to focus on improving lives and strengthening social wellbeing.
Speaking at a variety night held at the Club House Arena, ARISE Palm Resort, Uyo, to mark his third anniversary in office, the Governor said his administration remains focused on delivering projects and policies that impact citizens rather than self-glorification.
He described the ARISE Palm Resort venue—formerly a gully erosion site—as a symbol of transformation and deliberate governance, noting that its redevelopment into a tourism facility reflects his administration’s development philosophy.
Governor Eno said Akwa Ibom had made significant progress under his leadership, describing the state as “not just a promise land but a land of fulfilment,” while acknowledging that more work still lies ahead. He thanked residents for their support and called for continued cooperation to consolidate ongoing gains.
He also expressed appreciation to former Governor Udom Emmanuel for his support during the 2023 election, as well as President Bola Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio for their backing of his administration.
Addressing the political climate ahead of the 2027 general elections, Eno urged political actors to avoid insults and hostility, calling instead for issue-based campaigns focused on development priorities.
Setting the tone for the event, Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, listed key achievements of the administration, including the payment of over ₦80 billion in gratuity arrears, completion of the new terminal at Victor Attah International Airport, launch of the first international flight from Uyo to Accra, expansion of healthcare and education infrastructure, delivery of over 1,300 kilometres of roads and 41 bridges, and several social intervention programmes.
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, said participation in the scheme rose sharply from over 600 entries in 2024 to 15,621 in 2026, describing it as evidence of growing acceptance of the government’s Back-to-Farm initiative.
She explained that the programme encourages residents to engage in small-scale agriculture such as vegetable farming, poultry, and aquaculture to boost food security and household income. She also noted that the number of beneficiaries increased from 50 to 100.
