Akwa Ibom
Umo Eno First Speech As APC Governor With 23 Progressives Points
Umo Eno First Speech As APC Governor With 23 Progressives Points
Umo Eno first speech as APC governor with 23 progressives points.
PROTOCOL
1. It was Dalai Lama, one of the world’s most highly admired moral voices who spoke so eloquently about change and the constancy of values. Dalia had advised the world to “Open your arms to change, but don’t let go of your values.”
2. Today, fellow Akwaibomites, we are gathered here to witness change while equally affirming the constancy of our collective values and defining ethos as a State.
3. For some time now, the political space particularly in this State and the Nation in general have been awash with the news of my likely movement from the PDP, the platform that had provided the levers and ladder of my political ascendancy to the position of Governor of this State. The discussions have elicited various layers of analysis in the process.
4. Today, I am here to answer some of those nagging questions. Like the Dalai Lama had said, we should always be open to change but not let go of our shared values.
5. Earlier this morning, I submitted my formal Letter of Resignation from the PDP to my Ward Chairman, same copy was sent to both the State Chairman as well as the National Chairman. I have therefore, decided to Progressively move to the All Progressive Congress, the (APC).
6. Standing before you today, I make bold to state categorically that, though I have, by today’s event, changed my political affiliation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All-Progressives Congress (APC) my values, my moral fibre, the foundational principles I have nourished and lived by remain unchanged and sacrosanct.
7. Why am I in the APC, you may ask? The answer is short and simple: Enlightened State Interest predicated on the need to align our State with the Centre to attract more Federal presence.
That is the truth-pure and simple as well as the exercise of my fundamental Right of Association as expressed in the 1999 Constitution as Amended.
8. President Tinubu, GCFR, has possibly, in recent history of this Nation, faced the most daunting economic challenges of any leader. With boldness and deep convictions, he has stared these challenging moments head-on and came up with solutions that, though in the immediate aftermath is tough for Nigerians, but however, are beginning to bear long-lasting and sustainable effects.
9. The removal of petrol subsidy, though a hard decision, has brought more funds to subnational entities to pursue audacious projects that are positively affecting the lives of their people.
Akwa Ibom State today, is more of a constructing site with many life-touching projects across the 31 Local Governments Areas. The economic fog is becoming clearer, the confidence in our economy is growing and we need to support him to finish this huge task of national re-awakening and economic renewal.
10. It is a known fact that, I have never hidden my admiration for the President and his patriotic devotion to national renewal which he is engendering today
As a young professional working in Lagos while he was the Governor, I was amazed and fascinated by the manner he ran Lagos, and had, with focus and vision, raised the profile of Lagos State to become a leading Subnational in the country, while facing daunting challenges.
I believe he is poised to replicate the Lagos magic on a larger national scale. I therefore, have no apologies for supporting him for a second term in office to complete the reforms he has started.
11. Let me also say it here, that political parties are vehicles to run for elections. Governance in my considered opinion should be done, without rigid attachment to political labels, since these parties are not defined by ideology but by enlightened set of interests.
12. In two years, since my inauguration as Governor, I have not worn a toga of a political party rather it has been my passionate commitment to pursuing the larger interest of our State and our people. The Arise Agenda, has been our Governance Blueprint, and that’s what it will be as we make this movement. I therefore, appeal to you my people to join me in this necessary movement to align our State with the Centre and to facilitate more development to our State.
13. Let me add here that our dear State is nationally considered as one of the safest and peaceful States in the nation. There is an urgent need to sustain and deepen this important catalyst for growth, by not engaging in unnecessary political bickering. Peace brings development, peace brings unity and unity breeds brotherhood and inclusivity and our State is the ultimate beneficiary.
14. I have always said I will work for the unity of our State by running a bipartisan administration. This has been a well-thought-out position that was so eloquently stated in my Inaugural Speech on May 29, 2023.
15. On that historic day, I had stated thus “Elections are over, and our kindred spirit must be renewed and deepened. We are all Akwaibomites first before politics.
Politics, therefore, must not separate or sever the ties of our brotherhood, common heritage and aspirations. I pledge to you, that I will be Governor for all Akwaibomites irrespective of political persuasion or affiliations”
16. Today, as I make this formal movement from the PDP to APC, I pledge to you again, my dear Akwaibomnites, that I will still run a bipartisan and inclusive governance. Akwa Ibom State, I promise you will be a model of how to work together, pray together, aspire together, dream together and achieve together without the polarising impulses of partisan politics. Political parties remain vehicles for elections. I will continue to ensure that governance is done through the prism of bipartisanship.
17. Let me end this speech with a quote from the renowned author, Julie Flygare “The secret of change is to focus all your energy not in fighting the old, but on building the new.”
Umo Eno First Speech As APC Governor
18. Together, with the old and the new, we will build our dear State, with unity, with peace, with inclusivity, with love and kindred spirit in accordance with the lines in our State’s Anthem that “our dreams be ever one, rising “beyond ethnicity”, to “build with love, our Promised Land” so we may go “Forward Ever and Backward Never!! That is what I am dedicating to doing and I ask you to continue to support and pray for us.
19. Like the children of Issachar in 1st Chronicles Chapter 12 verse 32, were “men that had understanding of the times to know what Israel should do”” I also expect the understanding of the times we are in, and why we are doing this movement.
As the children of Issachar pitched their tenth with David, for the common good of Israel, I expect unflinching loyalty of our Team- a point that is further eloquently illustrated in John 10: 27 “My sheep hears my voice, and I know them and they follow me.”
20. I am convinced the the voice I heard that led us to this day and to this movement was the right voice and I know my people will follow me and continue to give us their support.
Let us strategically Arise together, to the promise of a better, more inclusive, stronger and united Akwa Ibom State that is aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, GCFR led-Federal Government
21. To those who may be concerned by this Progressive movement, I want to assure you that I have received enormous assurances of support and seamless integration from our dear President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,
The Senate President, Distinguished Senator Godwill Akpabio, GCON, and the Progressive Governors’ Forum. Those who know our dear President will attest to the fact that his words are his bond. This movement, falling on a day that we mark Sallah, is our own gift to our President and it has divine connotation
22. APC- Progress, Arise – That same God!
God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria, God bless Akwa Ibom State and bless us all!
23. On your Mandate we shall stand, On your Mandate we shall stand, On your Mandate, On your Mandate
On your Mandate we shall stand
Akwa Ibom Governor Pledges Commitment To Tourism, Blue Economy Development
Akwa Ibom governor pledges commitment to tourism, blue economy development… commends Editi Effiong for projecting State’s tourism potentials
As part of his effort to encourage tourism and enhance the State’s blue economy, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to encourage and reward young professionals who are willing to collaborate with his administration in promoting the positive image of the State through the ARISE Agenda.
The Governor made this known while fielding questions from Government House correspondents shortly after embarking on inspection of a locale of a movie, “The Black Book 2” (Old Scores), at Ishiet Beach/Market in Uruan Local Government Area.
He commended the movie Producer and Director, Mr. Editi Effiong, for his talent, vision, inspiration, and creative ability to project the tourism potentials and boost the economy of the State.
Governor Eno charged young Akwa Ibomites to shun divisive tendencies, be inspired, and emulate the creative effort of successful Akwa Ibom sons and daughters by joining hands to develop the tourism and blue economy of the State.
“The impression is amazing, seeing that we have one of our own trying to pull the world down here.
“I would love to thank and encourage him, and to let our young people see that Akwa Ibom has what it takes to drag the world’s attention.
“It depends on what you see. Someone can see this place and write one story about a swamp that has been abandoned and make all the noise. Another person sees this place and makes a great movie out of it that will market this place to the world and is able to attract the attention because of the work he has done here,” he said.
The State Chief Executive pledged his encouragement, support, and collaboration with Editi and other young Akwa Ibomites to enable them rise to the zenith of their calling.
“We are going to work with him. Editi is a young man I have known very well. This is one thing I say to our people in the diaspora, let’s partner. Come back home, whatever you see out there, bring it back here, and let’s work together.
“I think that is the story, and I am really impressed. If you know the number of people that have visited this State in the course of this film, the talents, and the caliber of artists that have been here, then this young man deserves an award and our support,” he added.
Ibom Deep SeaPort
On his part, the movie Producer and Director, Effiong, appreciated Governor Eno for his visionary leadership and passion for tourism development.
He expressed gratitude to the Governor for creating a hospitable and tourism friendly ecosystem to enhance talent exploration through the provision of good road network and quality modern facilities which distinguished the State as one of the most treasured locations in the country.
BREAKING: International Flight Operation – A New Dawn For Akwa Ibom
BREAKING: International flight operation – a new dawn for Akwa Ibom. On a bright Friday morning, a chartered plane descends smoothly onto the runway of Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo. For the first time in years, the airport, upgraded to international standards, welcomes travellers from abroad directly, without the need for cumbersome stop overs. As the passengers step out, they are greeted by warm sunshine, gentle coastal breezes and the promise of adventure in a land long admired but rarely visited.
Among them is Anna, a tourist from Europe curious about Nigeria’s lesser known treasures. She has booked a flight because she read about Akwa Ibom’s serene beaches, rich culture, and vibrant hospitality scene. With her suitcase in hand and camera ready, she hails a cab to the coast, to a place called Ibeno Beach, reputed to be the longest stretch of natural sandy beach in the country.
Elsewhere, a business traveller couple from Asia arrives at night, thanks to the recently restored night flight capability of the airport. The lights of Uyo’s cityscape welcome them. Their plan is not merely tourism. They come to explore opportunities in real estate, hospitality investments and marine port projects, drawn by Akwa Ibom’s emerging infrastructure and connectivity.
Discovering Hidden Treasures, Tourism Blossoms
With the ease of direct access, people like Anna are no longer daunted by complicated travel itineraries. They can touch down in Uyo and in a few hours find themselves sunbathing on Ibeno Beach, exploring mangrove lined creeks, savouring local cuisine, and attending cultural events.
Local hotels and resorts, some recently built, others simply refurbished, begin to fill up. Tour operators, boat ride operators, souvenir craftsmen, local guides and transport drivers see a sudden surge in demand. Families book weekend getaways. Young couples go for romantic beach walks. International guests craving unique tropical culture find themselves drawn to the forested hills, water side villages, and warm hospitality of the people.
Small businesses flourish. The souvenir making artisans produce hand woven crafts, traditional garments and artworks. Restaurants serve local dishes to foreigners curious about Nigerian coastal cuisine. Tour guides offer boat rides, ecotourism treks, historical site tours and even visits to old missionary sites and cultural villages.
From Tourism to Revenue, Jobs and Infrastructure
The inflow of travellers brings tangible income. Payment for airport services, landing fees, tourism taxes, hotel fees, tour operator commissions, local transport fares, dining and souvenirs. The government begins to record increased revenue from airport operations and tourism related levies.
At the same time, businesses spring up to meet the rising demand. New hotels, resorts, restaurants and tour agencies. This creates jobs for hotel staff, cooks, guides, drivers, artisans, maintenance staff, security personnel and many others. Local youth find employment in hospitality and related services.
Investors, seeing the rising interest and improved connectivity, start funding larger infrastructure projects. Roads to beach areas are improved. Leisure facilities, resorts, waterfront promenades and small marinas are built. With increased financial inflows, the state government reinvests into public infrastructure. Roads, electricity, waste management and beautification receive attention.
Having a modern internationally connected airport also strengthens Akwa Ibom’s appeal for trade and logistics. With proposed harbour or deep sea port developments on the horizon, the state is gradually transforming into an integrated logistics and tourism hub.
A Story of Renewal and Possibility
By opening its skies, Akwa Ibom changes from a hard to reach but beautiful coast to a must visit destination with easy access. People like Anna now tell their friends about their unforgettable beach holiday. Business minded visitors arrive to explore investment opportunities. Local entrepreneurs seize new markets.
The result is more jobs, improved livelihoods, rising incomes and increasing state revenue. The revenue helps fund roads, public utilities, coastal development and improvements to public facilities. Over time, the state becomes more prosperous and more vibrant, tourism and commerce leading to real, visible transformation.
International Flight
Why This Matters. Beyond the Story
Analysis shows that airport infrastructure, such as direct international flights, is strongly correlated with socio economic growth, increased tourism, employment and income generation.
With the recent approval for international operations at Victor Attah International Airport, the capacity to bring in foreign visitors without major transit delays is now achievable.
The resetting of night flight operations adds flexibility to travel schedules, boosting the attractiveness for both leisure and business travellers.
The state’s broader plan under the ARISE Agenda envisions tourism and hospitality as major pillars for economic diversification, lessening reliance on oil revenues.
Governor Umo Eno Secures Federal Approval For International Airport Operations
Governor Umo Eno secures federal approval for international airport operations. The Federal Government has approved the commencement of full international flight operations at the Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
The approval was granted on Thursday during a meeting in Abuja between Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
The development places the airport among the few in Nigeria authorised to process international passenger traffic. It is expected to boost regional connectivity, strengthen tourism, stimulate business activity and attract greater foreign investment into the state.
With the new status, the airport will be able to receive international carriers, operate cross-border flights and function as a direct gateway between Akwa Ibom and destinations across Africa and beyond. Full international operations are projected to begin in the first quarter of 2026.
Governor Umo Eno Secures Federal Approval For International Airport Operations
Governor Eno, who has been pursuing the upgrade through sustained engagement with federal authorities, described the approval as a major step forward for the state.
His administration has positioned Akwa Ibom as an emerging aviation hub, driven partly by the expansion of airport infrastructure and the growth of the state-owned airline.
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