November 18, 2025
Akwa Ibom Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has instructed the newly appointed Head of the Civil Service, Mrs Elsie Anietie Peters, to place strong emphasis on training and professional development across the state workforce. He said enhanced capacity, improved efficiency, and sustained commitment were essential for the delivery of public services.
The Governor gave the charge during the inauguration ceremony held at the Banquet Hall of Government House in Uyo. He noted that the Civil Service remains central to the success of the ARISE Agenda and must be adequately prepared to discharge its responsibilities.
He expressed confidence in the new Head of Service and stated that her leadership would help strengthen teamwork and dedication in the service of the state.
Governor Eno reaffirmed his commitment to workers’ welfare. He said salaries and pensions continue to be paid without delay. He also highlighted the cordial relationship between the government and organised labour.
The Governor reported significant progress in clearing the long standing gratuity arrears which stood at one hundred and ten billion naira between 2012 and May 2023. He said more than seventy five billion naira has now been paid. He added that one point three billion naira was recently released, which cleared the backlog from 2012 to March 2021. He described the achievement as a fulfilment of his campaign promise and thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing funds that have assisted states with their capital and recurrent obligations.
He congratulated Mrs Peters and said her experience and background have prepared her to build a Civil Service defined by loyalty to the state, commitment to the Governor, and a strong understanding of the ideals that guide the ARISE Agenda.
Governor Eno also reminded government appointees that faithfulness and loyalty are essential expectations of service. He said God values faithfulness above talent or visibility. Citing Matthew chapter six verse twenty four, he advised those who attempt to serve conflicting interests to desist, saying no one can serve two masters.
He warned that anyone who chooses to work against the government while holding an appointment is free to leave. He said appointees are expected to work closely with him and translate his vision for the progress of the state. He stressed that loyalty is a universal standard and not unique to Akwa Ibom. He added that those attempting to disrupt the peace of the state should reconsider their actions.
The Governor thanked the immediate past Head of Service, Elder Effiong Essien, for his contributions to aligning the Civil Service with the ARISE Agenda and for supporting the transition to a more professional and ICT driven system.
Speaking with Government House correspondents after her swearing in, Mrs Peters expressed gratitude to God and to the Governor for the opportunity to serve. She pledged to steer the state Civil Service towards a new level of professionalism that meets global standards.
Those present at the event included the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, Chief Assam Assam, the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Obong Stephen Ntukekpo, Senator Effiong Bob, former Deputy Governor, Obong Nsima Ekere, and the Executive Assistant and Chief Delivery Advisor, Mr Aniefiok Johnson.
