Akwa Ibom
Umo Eno Reassures Full Actualization Of Arise Agenda With Time Limits
Umo Eno Reassures Full Actualization Of Arise Agenda With Time Limits
Umo Eno reassures full actualization of Arise Agenda with time limits. “I envision a vibrant, inclusive, and highly industrialized economy for this State, using highly developed human and material resources. In the past one month, we have engaged and played host to some investors across sectors who are desirous of investing in our State” – Governor Umo Eno during launch of Arise Agenda, July 22, 2023.
The title of this article was inspired by the recent courtesy visit of two corporate investors to Governor Umo Eno, events which were both held at the Government House, Uyo. First was the visit by the Board and Management of Seplat Group, following its successful acquisition of Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited (“MPNU”).
The second was that of Lekoil Ltd on January 21, 2025, also at the Government House. Lump their aggregate interests together, optimists and those with foresight would agree that they point to the sectoral and progressive transformation of Akwa Ibom State in line with the Arise Agenda of His Excellency’s compass for the transformation of Akwa Ibom State.
I recall with relish that at the official launch of the Arise Agenda and unveiling of its logo at the Ibom Icon Hotel and Golf Resort, on July 22, 2023, His Excellency, Governor Umo Eno, had pointed to what is happening today with the visit to the State by the aforementioned corporate bodies, besides others.
The superscription to this piece was crafted from the governor’s speech at the launch of Arise Agenda, wherein he saw the Arise Agenda as a visionary blueprint targeted at propelling multifaceted socioeconomic growth and development of the State. Dr. Uduak Inam, Economic Adviser to the Governor, whom the governor described as the architect of the Arise apparatus, had said the Arise Agenda is a flagship document and compass that “will drive development efforts of the present administration”.
So the said visits by the two companies were heralds of the fulfilment of the Arise dreams.
SEPLAT Energy Plc, Nigeria’s leading indigenous oil and gas producer, was led on the visit by its Board Chairman , Senator Udo Udoma. He had represented Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District in the Senate from 1999 to 2007. On behalf of SEPLAT, Sen. Udoma expressed its continued commitment to partnering with the Akwa Ibom State Government for sustainable development.
The Seplat delegation used the occasion to formally brief the Governor on the recent completion of the acquisition of Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited by Seplat Energy Offshore Limited, explaining that the entity will henceforth be known and addressed as Seplat Energy Producing Nigeria Unlimited (SEPNU), retaining all assets and liabilities of the previous company.
As it mattered to Akwa Ibom State and the Arise Agenda specifically, the Chairman further outlined the company’s objective of significantly contributing to meeting Nigeria’s strategic oil and gas aspirations while leveraging the socio-economic development of Akwa Ibom State.
According to Udoma, key areas to actualizing this shall include its commitment to sustainable operations and unbroken collaboration with the state government and communities to ensure long-term mutual benefits to all parties.
“We are honored to have the opportunity to engage with the Akwa Ibom State Government and present our vision for a collaborative future. Our commitment is not only to the growth of our operations but also to the well-being and prosperity of the communities where we operate.
We are confident that through strong partnerships and shared goals, we can bring significant economic and social benefits to the country, state and our communities”, Udoma stated.
Governor Umo Eno welcomed the SEPNU team which also included the Group Chief Executive Officer, Roger Brown and the Managing Director of Seplat Energy Producing Nigeria Unlimited, Mr. Oladotun Isiaka.
He assured the team of the state government’s unwavering support and continued commitment to creating an enabling environment for the company’s operations.
He emphasized that the government under his leadership is people-centric, pragmatic, inclusive and foreward-looking and was ever ready to support initiatives that will benefit the people of the State.
Other members of the SEPNU delegation were Director, External affairs; Mrs Chioma Afe, GM, Corporate services, Mrs Emo Udobong-Ntia, GM, Public and Government Affairs, Mr. Oge Udeagha, and Government Relations Lead QIT, Mr. Esumo Effiong.
Whereas the host had in attendance the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, Executive Assistant and Chief Delivery Advisor to the Governor, Mr. Aniefiok Johnson, and the immediate past Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Uko Udom, SAN and others.
It was indeed a week of consolidation of vision and preview of the developmental blueprints of the State government and its partners. Following SEPNU visit was that of Lekoil.
It was led by the Chief Executive Officer of Lekoil, Lekan Akinyanmi. With him were the GM Operations, Matthias Akhideno; GM Legal, Gloria Iroegbunam; GM Government Relationship and Communications, Hamilton Esi; Head of C & P, Unwana Etuk, and Godwin Okeke, GM SHES & SCD.
It was no coincidence that Lekoil’s vision was in line with that of the Arise Agenda. Arise Agenda is all-embracing.
Akinyanmi noted that the visit was to formally introduce the company to the Governor, and to make him aware of its investment interest in the State.
Lekoil, according to him, is an African focused oil and gas exploration and production company, a portfolio company of Cambridge Growth Partners which also has OakGold, Cambridge LNG, Cambridge Energy, Cambridge Harvest, CGP-1 Fund, and Blink Studios. He hinted that the company has a good development master plan that also captures its Corporate Social Responsibility, namely, the development of the host community along side its investment.
On his part, Governor Eno appreciated Lekoil for its choice of investment in Akwa Ibom State, assuring them of his government’s open arms to investors.
He assured them that the State is prepared to support the Company in all conceivable ways, with the hope that its investment will help in the development of the State through generation of employment opportunities.
Most importantly, the governor said the State will be interested in one of the subsidiaries of Cambridge Growth partners, the Cambridge Harvest, whose interest is in sustainable and efficient agricultural practices.
Agriculture is a critical part of the ARISE Agenda. The attention of both Companies was drawn to the State’s employment portal which contains details of unemployed youths, where they can source the needed manpower whenever the need arises.
Arise Agenda
With the Governor were the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, Executive Assistant and Chief Delivery Advisor to the Governor, Mr. Aniefiok Johnson, Permanent Secretary Government House, Mr. Godwin Udoh and the Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Ekerete Udoh.
SEPNU and Lekoil are two among many who either had indicated interest to invest in the State or had already found their haven in the State, considering the State’s natural and human endowments.
These, put together, point to the harvest of opportunities for growth and development that awaits the State, a vindication of the Arise Agenda. Indeed, it’s a matter of time Akwa Ibom shall actualize its potential with the ARISE Agenda!
Hilary Sunday Owowo writes from Uboro-Isong-Inyang, in Udunguko Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
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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