GOV ENO’S THREE YEARS OF IMPACTFUL SERVICE
Text of a Press Briefing by the Honourable Commissioner of Information, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah, on May 30, 2026, during a Joint Ministerial Media Briefing
My dear colleagues in the pen profession, permit me to begin by conveying the deepest appreciation of His Excellency, the Governor, for your unwavering support and solidarity since his assumption of office on May 29, 2023.
As you are aware, May 29, 2026, marked three years of impactful leadership by His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, PhD, as Governor of Akwa Ibom State. In his third anniversary statewide broadcast, the Governor highlighted key achievements recorded under his administration, reaffirmed his commitment to consolidating and expanding development across all sectors in line with the ARISE Agenda, and directed all sectoral leaders to engage journalists through interactive sessions such as this. This further demonstrates his commitment to accountability, transparency and responsible governance.
Guided by the strategic pillars of the ARISE Agenda, Agricultural Revolution, Rural Development, Infrastructural Maintenance and Advancement, Security Management and Educational Advancement, along with its 17 focal areas, the administration has implemented deliberate and practical interventions aimed at improving lives and expanding opportunities for the people of Akwa Ibom State.
Today, the results are evident in economically viable roads, improved healthcare delivery, agricultural and food security initiatives, model schools and educational support programmes, youth and women empowerment schemes, and efforts to strengthen security and unity across the State. These accomplishments are visible in every local government area, reflecting the administration’s commitment that no part of Akwa Ibom should be left untouched by impactful development.
I can confidently say that we have kept that promise, and the following highlights provide a sector-by-sector account of what has been delivered under the ARISE Agenda.
- AGRICULTURE
In line with the Agricultural Revolution component of the ARISE Agenda, the administration has sustained efforts towards food security, value-chain development, mechanised farming and rural economic empowerment.
Government has expanded the Ibom Model Farm initiative and other farms across the State while also implementing the ARISE Home Farms Scheme and the Back-to-Farm Initiative to encourage increased agricultural participation.
The administration disbursed grants to over 200 farmers under the ARISE Farmers Grant Initiative and also launched the Ibom Equipment Leasing Facility to improve access to mechanised farming equipment.
Farmers under the LIFE-ND Project received agricultural credit support, while the One Health Approach Programme and Epidemiology Surveillance Project were implemented, with vaccination activities carried out across the State.
Government also established the Live-Bird Market at AKADEP Headquarters, Uyo, while massive agricultural input distribution programmes were undertaken. Over 750,000 cocoa seedlings, over 700,000 oil palm seedlings, and over 150,660 bundles of cassava cuttings were distributed to farmers and farming groups across the State.
Commercial farmers also benefitted from agro-input support, while rice farmers received rice seedlings, knapsack sprayers and agro-chemicals to boost production.
As part of efforts to deepen agricultural education and youth participation in agribusiness, training was conducted for extension workers on modern agricultural practices, while young people were trained on integrated farming models.
Government also provided technical support to farmers through extension services and electronic media platforms.
- RURAL DEVELOPMENT
In furtherance of the Rural Development aspiration of the ARISE Agenda, government has continued to improve access to markets, transportation, water supply and agricultural infrastructure across rural communities.
The administration flagged off the 11km Owot Uta Nung Oku Ekere, Afaha Udoeyop, Edeobom, Utuat Market Junction Rural Road project and also commissioned a solar-powered water scheme with treatment and reticulation facilities at Ogu Itu Mbon Uso in Ini Local Government Area.
Over 16,000 beneficiaries in the State benefitted from farm input distribution under Farmer Community Associations.
Government also commissioned wet markets at Urua Ekparakwa, Urua Nyemiko, Urua Afaha in Oruk Anam Local Government Area and other locations across the State.
To strengthen the fisheries sector and improve marine security, the administration established a Fisheries Protection Unit and commissioned patrol boats for waterway operations.
Fishing cooperatives and fish processors also received fishing nets, ropes, hooks, sinkers, aprons, hats and other fishing equipment.
Government further digitised approximately 5,000 kilometres of rural roads and awarded over 202.2 kilometres of roads, with 40 kilometres already completed.
Designs for three Agro Logistics Hubs, one in each Senatorial District, were completed and construction is ongoing.
Through the establishment of the Rural Access Roads Agency, RARA, the State qualified for additional World Bank financing and scale-up support.
- WORKS AND INFRASTRUCTURE
Consistent with the Infrastructural Maintenance and Advancement pillar of the ARISE Agenda, the administration has embarked on extensive road construction, bridge development, erosion control, transportation and public infrastructure projects across the State.
In this regard, over 1,300 kilometres of roads and more than 40 bridges have been initiated and completed across Akwa Ibom State, reflecting a major expansion of infrastructure development.
Completed projects include the reconstruction of the 14.3km Ikot Ubo, Odot Road in Nsit Ubium and Nsit Atai, internal roads at the Police Headquarters, Ikot Akpan Abia, and underground discharge drains from Atiku Abubakar to Olusegun Obasanjo Way in Uyo.
Several inherited projects were also completed and commissioned, including the Ikot Esu, Otomo, Azumini Road in Ika, the Pepsi Junction, Ukpom, Abak Road, bridges at Ikot Ekaide and Ikot Okoro, and the expansion of Oron Road to Victor Attah International Airport.
The administration is currently executing numerous strategic projects, including the dualisation of Ring Road III, reconstruction of the Ikot Akpaden, Iko Road with bridges, dualisation of Okopedi, Oron Road, reconstruction of the Oron Marine Terminal and Jetties, and several internal road projects across Uyo, Itu, Ikot Ekpene, Obot Akara, Mkpat Enin and other local government areas.
Beyond these, government has strengthened project monitoring and accountability mechanisms and is establishing a multi-stakeholder monitoring committee comprising journalists, civil society organisations, community representatives and relevant agencies to independently assess infrastructure delivery and ensure value for money.
The Governor has reaffirmed commitment to completing all critical road projects and ensuring that no part of the State is left behind in the infrastructure drive.
This includes expedited work on strategic corridors such as the Governor’s ancestral road and other priority projects to improve connectivity and stimulate economic activities.
Government has also intensified oversight of contractors, issuing notices to mobilise non-performing contractors and enforcing compliance with contractual obligations, while reserving the right to terminate contracts where necessary to safeguard public resources and ensure timely delivery.
- INTERNAL SECURITY
In alignment with the Security Management aspiration of the ARISE Agenda, Governor Umo Eno has sustained peace and strengthened the security architecture across the State through strategic investments, institutional support and enhanced law enforcement coordination.
The administration established a stand-alone Ministry of Internal Security and Waterways to coordinate internal security operations and strengthen response mechanisms across the State.
Government also established and deployed the Ibom Community Watch, ICW, across communities to support intelligence gathering and community-based security surveillance.
To improve waterways security, government acquired gunboats for security operations and provided brand-new patrol vehicles to security agencies to enhance mobility, rapid response and operational effectiveness.
The administration also launched and operationalised the Security Trust Fund to strengthen support for security agencies and sustain security interventions across the State.
Government established a modern Command and Control Centre equipped with tactical security infrastructure to improve surveillance, intelligence gathering, centralised coordination and emergency response operations.
In furtherance of its commitment to strengthening security infrastructure, the administration commenced the construction of a Nigeria Police Counter-Terrorism Unit, CTU, Base in Nsit Ubium LGA and a modern Correctional Centre at Nung Ukim in Uyo LGA.
The administration also secured approvals for the establishment of a Nigeria Air Force Composite Group Base in Eket, a Naval Operations Base in Stubbs Creek, an Army Infantry Battalion, commencing as a Forward Operations Base, in Urue Offong, and a Nigeria Customs Service Bonded Terminal in Uyo.
These strategic interventions have contributed to a safer and more secure environment for citizens, tourists and investors, while improving surveillance, intelligence coordination and faster security response across the State.
The initiatives underscore the administration’s firm commitment to safeguarding lives and property, strengthening law enforcement capacity, and positioning Akwa Ibom as a safe, stable and investor-friendly State.
- EDUCATION
As part of the Educational Advancement drive of the ARISE Agenda, the administration has implemented strategic reforms and investments aimed at improving learning infrastructure, access to quality education and global competitiveness for students.
Government pioneered the construction and deployment of fully equipped Model Primary Schools across local government areas and Model Secondary Schools, representing the first initiative of its kind in the State.
The administration also launched the UK EduTrip initiative for high-performing public school students to expose them to global academic opportunities.
The former College of Education was upgraded into the Akwa Ibom State University of Education, while accredited Law and Medicine programmes were introduced at the State university level.
Student bursary payments were increased to ₦50,000 to reduce financial pressure on undergraduates.
Governor Umo Eno also demonstrated commitment to entrepreneurship development by offering to personally lecture entrepreneurship courses at Akwa Ibom State University to prepare students for private-sector opportunities and self-reliance.
- AVIATION DEVELOPMENT
In pursuit of a robust aviation ecosystem capable of driving tourism, commerce and investment, the administration established the Ministry of Aviation Development and strengthened the operations of Ibom Air.
This administration has embarked on ten major projects in the aviation sector, reinforcing Akwa Ibom State’s position as an emerging aviation hub within the Gulf of Guinea.
Key achievements include the acquisition of four new aircraft for Ibom Air, the training of pilots, aircraft engineers and technicians, as well as the completion of the new International Terminal Building at the Victor Attah International Airport, which has facilitated the commencement of international flight operations.
Other ongoing aviation infrastructure projects include the construction of the Aviation Village, airport taxiway, airport apron, airport hospital, access roads, drainage systems and security fencing around the airport environment, all aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, safety and passenger experience.
- HUMAN CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT AND EMPOWERMENT
Driven by the administration’s commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable human capital development, government has sustained strategic empowerment and employment interventions aimed at expanding opportunities across all sectors of the State economy.
The State has recorded significant progress in human capital development, with 750 political appointees and a total civil service size of 53,275 personnel.
In addition, a total of 86,324 persons have benefitted directly and indirectly from employment and empowerment initiatives as at May 2026, reflecting the broad reach of government interventions across the State.
These achievements have been driven through several special intervention programmes, including the DASAC Training Programme, Ibom Leadership and Entrepreneurial Development, IBOM-LED, Farmers Grant, Traders Grant, Civil Service Recruitment exercises, Elderly Citizens Support Scheme, among others.
These programmes are designed to strengthen livelihoods, enhance skills and promote economic inclusion across Akwa Ibom State.
- ENVIRONMENT AND WASTE MANAGEMENT
In line with its commitment to environmental sustainability and improved sanitation, government is implementing a comprehensive waste management reform programme aimed at transforming waste into economic opportunities for citizens while ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment.
Government is currently pursuing a Waste-to-Wealth initiative through strategic partnerships with private-sector investors to establish systems for waste collection, recycling and resource recovery.
Under the proposed framework, residents will be encouraged to sort and supply recyclable waste materials in exchange for financial incentives, thereby creating employment opportunities and reducing environmental pollution.
The administration is also exploring the conversion of waste into alternative energy sources as part of broader efforts to improve environmental management, support renewable energy development and create a circular economy within the State.
In addition, public enlightenment campaigns are being strengthened to discourage indiscriminate waste disposal and promote responsible environmental practices among citizens and residents.
- HOUSING
Furthering the housing development objectives of the ARISE Agenda, the administration has constructed 1,048 housing units within three years to improve housing availability and welfare across the State.
Projects executed include the construction of Aviation Village, Judges Quarters in Judiciary Village, Doctors Quarters in the Ibom Medical Residential Estate, Legislative and Commissioners Quarters, and the ARISE Estate at Mbierebe Akpawat in Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area.
Government also developed 150 free housing units for public servants at Grace Estate and continued facility management and expansion works at the Government House complex.
The Ewet Luxury Gardens project also remains part of the administration’s urban housing development efforts.
- HEALTHCARE
The administration has embarked on a comprehensive healthcare renaissance focused on infrastructure, manpower development, emergency response systems and affordable healthcare access, advancing the healthcare objectives of the ARISE Agenda.
Government commenced the construction of the Ibom International Hospital, a flagship healthcare facility within the emerging Ibom Medical City.
The facility will also host pharmaceutical and medical manufacturing factories, diagnostic centres, apartments for staff, and 24 specialised departments designed to provide world-class healthcare services, medical education and research opportunities.
Government also established AKISEMSAS with fully equipped ambulance services across the State.
Hospitals and Primary Healthcare Centres were renovated and revitalised, while dialysis machines were installed at General Hospitals in Ikot Ekpene, Awa and Eket.
The administration established new oxygen plants, revitalised existing medical facilities, recruited additional healthcare workers, and improved remuneration for health professionals, making Akwa Ibom one of the highest paying states for health workers in Nigeria.
Under the Akwa Ibom State Health Insurance Agency, AKSHIA, healthcare coverage was expanded significantly.
So far, 197,700 persons have been enrolled, over 220,000 consultations recorded, 2,034 surgeries carried out, and over 1,421 Caesarean Sections supported.
The administration also invested heavily in healthcare workforce development through extensive training programmes covering maternal emergencies, malaria case management, nutrition intervention, family planning, emergency care, surveillance systems and community health delivery.
- TOURISM DEVELOPMENT
Government has continued to invest in tourism infrastructure, hospitality, entertainment and recreational facilities, guided by the ARISE Agenda’s vision of positioning Akwa Ibom as a premier tourism destination.
Projects executed include the ARISE Palm Resort, a 70-hectare luxury eco-tourism destination in Uyo, developed by the Akwa Ibom State Government on a reclaimed gully erosion site.
The resort features an artificial lake with floating bars and boat access, a 9-hole golf course, sports facilities, luxury villas, swimming pools, restaurants, cafés, a 1,500-capacity banquet hall, commercial outlets, the International Convention Centre with breakout rooms, and other world-class leisure, hospitality and business amenities.
Other projects include Ibom Hotels and the 20,000-capacity Amphitheatre.
Government also renovated Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort, Ibom Unity Park and Ibom Plaza to improve tourism appeal and urban aesthetics.
The administration successfully hosted Christmas Unplugged and the Akwa Ibom Unity Concert as part of efforts to promote entertainment, tourism and cultural unity within the State.
- HUMANITARIAN INTERVENTIONS
As part of its people-oriented governance approach, the administration has sustained large-scale humanitarian interventions aimed at supporting vulnerable citizens, widows, senior citizens and low-income households.
Government constructed the Senator Oluremi Tinubu ARISE Senior Citizens Home to provide healthcare, recreation and welfare support for elderly citizens.
Through the ARISE Initiative for the Elderly, ₦50,000 one-off payments were distributed to senior citizens across all 31 local government areas, with over 12,000 beneficiaries recorded so far.
The ARISE Compassionate Homes Programme has recorded significant progress, with over 450 of the 500 planned housing units completed and delivered to beneficiaries.
The administration has also sustained free food distribution to vulnerable residents, with more than 650,000 households benefiting from the intervention to date.
The Ibom Deep Seaport Project is a transformational infrastructure initiative designed to position Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria as a leading maritime, logistics, industrial and trade hub in West and Central Africa.
Under the leadership of Governor Umo Eno, the State Government has sustained strong commitment to its delivery through strategic partnerships, stakeholder engagement, institutional support, and collaboration with Federal Government agencies and private-sector partners.
This has led to significant milestones in the development of both the Ibom Deep Seaport and Ibom Industrial City.
Key milestones achieved include the execution of the Programme Manager, PwC, the appointment of transaction advisers, completion of viability studies, due diligence, financial modelling, risk analysis, and update of the Outline Business Case, OBC, as well as the selection of Bolloré Consortium, now Africa Global Logistics, as preferred bidder.
The State has also secured major Federal Government approvals, including the ICRC Certificate of Compliance, BPP Certificate of No Objection, and Federal Executive Council approval of the Full Business Case in 2020.
Further achievements include engagement of consultants for comprehensive feasibility studies covering geotechnical, environmental, technical, market and port design assessments.
The project has also recorded completion of Ibom Industrial City master planning, infrastructure designs and commencement of the construction of port access road.
It has also recorded sustained stakeholder and host community engagements, as well as recent strategic milestones including the establishment of the Ibom Industrial City Corporation in 2023, incorporation of the Ibom Project Development Management Company in 2025, Federal Government approval of the Certification and Compliance Process, commencement of construction of the access road to the port location, and recognition of the Ibom Deep Seaport as a priority national infrastructure project.
- POWER SECTOR REFORMS
In September 2025, His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, adopted the Akwa Ibom Electricity Sector Reform Programme, under which government has sustained the implementation of key reforms aimed at repositioning the State’s power sector for efficiency, sustainability, expanded access and the development of an independent and efficient electricity market.
A major milestone of the reform programme is the establishment of the Akwa Ibom State Electricity Regulatory Commission, AKSERC, with Commissioners duly appointed to provide regulatory oversight for electricity generation, distribution and market operations within the State.
Government has secured office accommodation and operational support for the Commission while implementing a structured transition programme to facilitate the transfer of regulatory responsibilities from the national electricity regulator to the State in line with existing legal provisions.
The administration has also incorporated Ibom Electricity Holding Limited, IEHL, to manage State power assets and coordinate sector operations.
As part of ongoing restructuring, government has regularised its shares in 4Power Consortium Limited and Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company, PHED, Limited, successfully reclaimed and strengthened its equity interests in relevant electricity investments, and completed negotiations relating to its shareholding position in 4Power Consortium Limited.
Government has maintained ownership of Ibom Power Company, 191MW, while pursuing a concession framework designed to attract private-sector expertise, improve operational efficiency and ensure sustainable management of electricity assets.
In addition, a comprehensive audit and valuation of electricity assets across the State is underway as part of preparations for the creation of a State-focused electricity distribution framework to improve service delivery and accelerate access to power.
To expand electricity access, government is strengthening collaboration with local government councils and private-sector partners to accelerate off-grid and renewable energy development, rural electrification and sustainable energy investments.
Plans are advancing for the deployment of solar home systems and renewable energy solutions to underserved and unserved communities, providing alternative power supply to households, educational institutions, healthcare facilities and communities beyond the reach of the national grid.
Looking ahead, government will establish the Akwa Ibom State Electrification Agency to drive electrification projects across the State, operationalise Ibom Electricity Holding Limited, train Akwa Ibom youths in the installation and maintenance of solar home systems and solar PV-powered mini-grids, and sustain investment in the rehabilitation and expansion of Ibom Power Company and the State electricity distribution network.
The goal is to achieve universal, reliable and sustainable electricity access for all Akwa Ibom people.
- FINANCE
In line with the State’s fiscal governance and economic reform agenda, government has continued to implement key financial management projects aimed at strengthening transparency, debt sustainability and improved public financial management.
The State Action for Business Enabling Reform, SABER, Project is ongoing.
The State Debt Management Project has recorded significant milestones, including the complete clearance of all inherited commercial bank debts amounting to N39.831 billion, principal and interest inclusive.
Under ongoing debt reduction efforts, government has repaid US$3,174,539,000 out of US$9,000,000 owed on the Afrexim Credit to Ibom Power, while also reducing the gratuity backlog to the tune of N83 billion as at April 2026 from an inherited N111 billion.
In addition, the State has prepared and published the 2025 Debt Sustainability Analysis, DSA, and quarterly debt profiles, strengthening eligibility for donor partnerships.
In the area of fiscal transparency, government has completed and published the 2024 audited financial statements within the statutory deadline, conducted the 2024 Public Financial Management Assessment with published report, and released the 2024 State Fiscal Responsibility Board Annual Report.
The Staff Housing Loan Project is ongoing, with N321.8 million disbursed to 212 civil servant beneficiaries to support improved welfare and productivity.
Government has also sustained full implementation of the Treasury Single Account, TSA, with a total of N7,552,076,614.61 swept from the revenue accounts of 34 out of 68 revenue-generating MDAs and institutions between January and February 2026.
This reinforces accountability and improved revenue consolidation.
The administration has continued to strengthen public financial management systems through aggressive reforms aimed at eliminating leakages, improving accountability and enhancing internally generated revenue performance.
Through independent payroll verification exercises and digital reforms within the civil service, government successfully identified and removed over 2,000 ghost workers from the State payroll system, resulting in significant savings and improved personnel management.
Government has also deepened the implementation of the Treasury Single Account policy to strengthen transparency and improve monitoring of public funds across Ministries, Departments and Agencies.
The impact of these reforms has been reflected in increased revenue performance, with monthly TSA inflows recording steady growth as more revenue-generating institutions are integrated into the centralised financial management framework.
Government remains committed to strengthening fiscal discipline, improving revenue collection efficiency and ensuring that public resources are deployed solely for programmes and projects that directly benefit the people of Akwa Ibom State.
- INFORMATION
The administration strengthened public information management and media relations through strategic coordination of government communication, enhanced collaboration with media stakeholders, and the institutionalisation of Monthly Ministerial and Executive Council Briefings.
Engagements with key professional bodies, including the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, NIPR, and the Conference of Online Publishers in Akwa Ibom State, COOPA, improved government-media relations and promoted effective dissemination of information on government policies, programmes and achievements.
The administration also maintained a robust and cordial relationship with media practitioners and organisations across the State and the country, reinforcing its commitment to transparency, accountability, open government, media freedom and responsible journalism.
In line with its digital transformation agenda, the government constructed and digitalised the new Akwa Ibom Broadcasting Corporation, AKBC, rehabilitated the Ministry’s Production and Recording Studio, and revived digital billboards across strategic locations in the State.
Government maintained a strong online presence across multiple digital platforms, promoted key projects through live broadcasts, documentaries, skits and short videos, produced and aired the ARISE Update Series on 13 radio stations and AKBC Television, and strengthened media monitoring and tracking mechanisms to assess public perception and communication effectiveness.
Through regular media interactions, ministerial briefings, executive engagements and public communication initiatives, citizens were provided with timely information on government policies, programmes and achievements while encouraging constructive stakeholder feedback.
To enhance public enlightenment and showcase government achievements, the administration published strategic information materials, including the ARISE Impact Magazine, Experience Akwa Ibom, Spectacular Performance, Golden Footprints and the ARISE Online Weekly Bulletin.
Through the Ethical and Attitudinal Re-orientation Commission, EARCOM, government implemented enlightenment and re-orientation campaigns supported by various jingles and promotional materials.
In addition, official vehicles were provided to the State Working Committee of the NUJ, while the NUJ Auditorium, Pastor Patience Umo Eno Auditorium, was completed and commissioned.
This demonstrates the administration’s commitment to strengthening media institutions, supporting journalism, and enhancing institutional mechanisms for information management, public communication and citizen engagement.
- TRANSPORTATION
The administration has made significant investments in transportation infrastructure aimed at improving connectivity, boosting economic activities and positioning Akwa Ibom as a key player in the emerging blue economy.
Notable among these is the construction of maritime infrastructure at Oron, comprising a landing jetty, shore protection works, ferry terminal, warehouse, cold room and recreational facilities.
These projects are designed to strengthen maritime operations, enhance water transportation and create new opportunities within the maritime and tourism sectors.
To improve waterway transportation, the government undertook the construction of a 24-metre Mild Steel Passenger and Cruise Ferry Boat and completed an 18-metre Marine Aluminium Passenger Ferry Boat.
These investments are expected to provide efficient and affordable water transport services, facilitate alternative access into the State for tourists and visitors, improve maritime mobility and further stimulate economic activities within the blue economy.
The administration is also advancing the Ibom City Bus Service and Compressed Natural Gas Transport System through the procurement of 50 CNG buses and spare parts, alongside the construction of a CNG bus station, workshop and training centre at Ikot Akpe, Uyo.
Additional land has been acquired for the development of CNG stations across local government areas.
Furthermore, government is constructing truck parks and parking lots in the Uyo, Ikot Ekpene and Eket Senatorial Districts to reduce indiscriminate roadside parking, enhance road safety and minimise accidents involving heavy-duty vehicles while providing safe, affordable and environmentally friendly transportation services for residents.
- YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
The administration has remained committed to youth empowerment through training, entrepreneurship, employment support and innovation-driven initiatives.
In this regard, Youth Development Centres were established across the 31 local government areas of the State, featuring brand-new purpose-built structures equipped with Creative Development Centres, ICT Hubs, E-Libraries, Coffee Shops, Recreation Lounges and Co-Working Spaces.
The centres are powered by solar electricity and provide a secure environment designed to foster innovation, learning, entrepreneurship, collaboration and youth empowerment.
Extensive training programmes were conducted through DASAC and Ibom-LED.
The government also organised the ARISE Youth Skills Week to promote mentorship, talent discovery, innovation and enterprise development.
In addition, business grants were provided to thousands of youths, with ₦750 million released in tranches to support youth empowerment initiatives.
The ARISE Youth Employment Portal was established to improve access to job opportunities, while more than 10,000 youths and SMEs have received training and empowerment support.
Government also strengthened youth welfare through increased NYSC allowances, camp maintenance, and support for youth participation in agriculture and enterprise development.
- SPORTS DEVELOPMENT
The administration organised the Akwa Ibom Sports Festival to promote youth participation and talent discovery, while also strengthening sports development through facility upgrades, athlete support and sustained Sports Academy Development initiatives.
Sports equipment and gym facilities were upgraded to enhance athlete performance, and the State actively participated in the National Sports Festival, National Youth Games and NDDC Games.
The State also hosted the Judiciary Games as part of its commitment to sports development and excellence.
- WOMEN AFFAIRS AND SOCIAL WELFARE
The administration sustained interventions targeted at women empowerment, social inclusion and child welfare across the State.
In this regard, government conducted sensitisation programmes for women, voter education campaigns, medical outreaches across all 31 local government areas, and empowerment support for women-led groups and cooperatives to enhance inclusion and improve livelihoods.
In the area of child welfare, government continued to provide care and educational support for over 430 children across Government Children’s Homes.
The beneficiaries are enrolled in primary, secondary and tertiary institutions, ensuring sustained welfare, protection and access to education for vulnerable children across the State.
- SCIENCE AND DIGITAL ECONOMY
Government has implemented key initiatives to modernise governance, enhance service delivery and strengthen the State’s digital economy ecosystem.
A major milestone is the launch of the Akwa Ibom Geographic Information System, AKWAGIS, which digitises land records, improves physical planning and accelerates Certificate of Occupancy processing.
In addition, e-governance platforms have been deployed across Ministries, Departments and Agencies, while Computer-Based Test centres have been established and upgraded to support examinations, recruitment processes and other digital assessments.
The administration has successfully digitised the Akwa Ibom State Civil Service through comprehensive reforms, including the digitalisation of personnel, payroll and records management systems.
These reforms have reduced ghost workers, errors and payment delays, improved the processing of promotions, postings and retirement benefits, strengthened accountability through biometric verification, and enabled MDAs to process memos, approvals and service requests electronically.
Civil servants have also been trained in ICT usage, e-filing and digital systems, resulting in a more transparent, efficient and data-driven public service.
In line with the evolving digital economy, government is repositioning technology and innovation programmes towards digital skills development, entrepreneurship, cybersecurity, software development, coding and innovation-driven enterprise.
Through digital skills training, certification programmes and the decentralisation of technology and innovation training across Youth Development Centres in all 31 local government areas, government is expanding access to digital opportunities, enhancing employability and preparing young people for participation in the global digital economy.
These efforts are further supported by strategic partnerships aimed at strengthening digital literacy, innovation ecosystems and technology-driven business opportunities for youths across the State.
CONCLUSION
The achievements recorded across sectors demonstrate the unwavering commitment of the administration of Governor Umo Eno, PhD, to the implementation of the ARISE Agenda blueprint.
Through strategic investments, people-focused programmes and inclusive governance, the administration continues to consolidate economic gains, expand opportunities, strengthen infrastructure, improve security and uplift the living standards of Akwa Ibom people across all local government areas.
The administration remains resolute in its commitment to delivering sustainable development, economic prosperity and shared progress for all citizens of Akwa Ibom State, while sustaining the momentum of development and ensuring that the dividends of democracy reach every community across the State.
We sincerely appreciate the media for your continued partnership, professionalism and commitment to informing the public.
As critical stakeholders in the development process, we encourage you to continue to objectively publicise the achievements, programmes and policies of this administration, so that citizens can remain adequately informed about the progress being made across the State.
Thank you for your attention, support and dedication to the development of Akwa Ibom State.
God bless Akwa Ibom State, and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
