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Umo Says We’re Preparing Akwa Ibom For Growth Beyond Oil Production

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Akwa Ibom For Growth Beyond Oil Production

Umo Says We’re Preparing Akwa Ibom For Growth Beyond Oil Production

Umo says We’re preparing Akwa Ibom for growth beyond oil production… flags off Int’l Convention Centre, Ibom Hotel.

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has flagged off the reconstruction of the Ibom International Convention Centre and Hotels in Uyo, with a commitment to prepare the state for growth beyond oil.

Speaking at the event held at the premises of the structures, he said one of the cardinal components of the ARISE Agenda is tourism which requires certain basic infrastructure such as good conference centres and hotels to thrive.

He said the two facilities in addition to the ARISE Resort, will be major signposts of the state’s tourism master plan.

Making reference to the scriptures in Hebrew 11:39-40, “And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise: God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect,” he recalled that the projects were started 15 years ago, but couldn’t be completed.

“I believe in my heart fully that God wanted us to be part of these projects and to drive it to conclusion. We give credence and kudos to all our past leaders, especially the distinguished Senate President, who envisioned this project, we thank all the other leaders that attempted to restart these projects.

The last administration did a whole lot but God didn’t let them finish it so that we can participate in it, and bring in all the modern requirements to run an international hotel because that is my industry. There is no way they could have finished these projects without a tourism practitioner. So we thank God.

The Governor who was a major player in the hospitality industry and former Chairman of the State Hotels and Tourism Board, said: “We are gathered here this afternoon, in our determined effort to position Akwa Ibom State as the tourism hub of Nigeria.

“I have been asked why we are spending money to complete the 200-bedroom Ibom Hotels which has been abandoned for years and my answer is simple: I came not just to deepen peace and unity in my State but to deploy my finishers’ anointing especially on projects that may have gulped billions of our State’s resources already.

Speaking further, he said, “With Uyo, our beautiful Capital City today, easily the host city of choice for major seminars, retreats, conventions and other events nationally, and with the 200-bedroom hotel which we are set to complete in 12 months, a world class International Convention Centre, will be an icing on the cake for our vision of delivering a one-stop tourism haven.

“Let me also reemphasize here that, we are preparing our State beyond oil and one of the key focal areas of our ARISE Agenda is tourism. We are deeply intentional in transforming this sector, considering our comparative advantage.

“With our ownership of Ibom Air, which ensures the ease of movement, with a world-class international airport that will soon go into operation, a peaceful, united and hospitable people, a range of cuisines that is nationally celebrated as the best, Akwa Ibom State, stands at the cusp of expansion and growth in tourism.

“Work is ongoing in our ARISE Resort, a marvel of human imagination, which, upon completion will be the best family-themed resort in the nation.

With facilities such as a 9-hole golf course, children playground, artificial lakes, banquet hall, tastefully furnished chalets among other facilities, ARISE Resorts will help bring the world to Uyo,” he added.

The Governor therefore called on the people to remain united, reduce unnecessary political bickering as the ARISE Agenda remains his administration’s governing blueprint.

Members of the National Assembly led by Senator Aniekan Bassey, commended the Governor for his leadership disposition, especially on inclusivity and for bringing government closer to the people.

He assured that members of the National Assembly are willing and ready to follow and support the Governor’s second term political journey.

Also speaking, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, said the legislators have observed with delight, the Governor’s commitment to project Akwa Ibom.

He said they were satisfied that budgetary approvals were judiciously deployed, adding that when completed, the facilities will add appreciable value to the State, while creating jobs.

Akwa Ibom For Growth Beyond Oil Production

Akwa Ibom For Growth Beyond Oil Production

On his part, Chief Assam Assam,SAN, recalled that during the electioneering campaign, the Governor had promised to complete abandoned projects without considering the initiator, stressing that the event was a fulfillment of one of the major promises at the campaigns.

He described the Governor as a jinx breaker saying, “Your Excellency you’re a Jinx breaker. I came to join everyone and tell Your Excellency, you’ve done well. I urged you all to stand with your Governor. The Governor has done well and may God continue to bless him in Jesus name.”

In an overview of the project, Commissioner for Special Duties and Ibom Deep Seaport, Comrade Ini Ememobong said both facilities were critical in the tourism equation of the State adding that when completed, the facilities will direct tourism traffic to the State.

The Chairman of Uyo, Dr. Uwemedimo Udo, and his Ibesikpo-Asutan counterpart, Mr. Edidiong Inyang as well as the Paramount Ruler of Ibesikpo-Asutan Local Government Area, Edidem Clement Ekpenyong, appreciated the Governor for his unique leadership style, especially his commitment to completing projects that were not initiated by him.

Akwa Ibom

Workers’ Day: Akwa Ibom Gov Announces N160m Support Fund, Gifts Labour Leaders Cars

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Workers’ Day: Akwa Ibom Gov Announces N160m Support Fund, Gifts Labour Leaders Cars

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pst. Umo Eno has announced a support fund of N160 million for Akwa Ibom State Workers.

The Governor also gifted the Chairman of Trade Union Congress (TUC) Comrade Kingsley Akpan and the State Chairperson of the Joint Public Sector Negotiation Committee, Comrade Kingsley Ekong brand new Cars in commemoration of the day.

The Deputy Governor, Sen. Akon Eyakenyi who represented the Governor at the event, said it was a commitment by Gov Eno to supporting Akwa Ibom State Workers as their dedication, resilience and productivity have significantly boosted productivity in the state’s overall development.

She described Akwa Ibom as one of the most peaceful states in the country, attributing the steady influx of organisations and groups holding meetings in the state to its safety and stability, noting that recent commendations came in yesterday as the Inspector General of Police, Tinju Disu and the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall Sunday Kelvin further underscored the Government’s investments in security and peaceful coexistence.

“Just yesterday the IGP of Police and Chief Air Staff applauded the Gov for the peaceful and decent nature of the state.

“ And this speaks to the commitment and investment made by the Governor of the state.”

Eyakenyi, however, urged the Trade Union Congress to acknowledge the administration’s efforts in maintaining security and empowering youths, stressing that such initiatives had significantly contributed to the calm atmosphere in the state.

She disclosed that the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress and TUC had earlier paid a courtesy visit to the Governor to present key issues affecting workers, noting that the Governor promptly constituted a committee to address the concerns within one month.

She also paid tribute to the outgoing NLC Chairman, Comrade Sunny James, praising his patriotism and commitment to the growth of the state as she expressed optimism that he would continue to contribute to development even after his tenure.

Eyakenyi announced further that the state government was rewarding Comrade Akpan and Mr. Ekong, with official vehicles to support their work. She reiterated the government’s commitment to worker’s welfare, including the payment of gratuities, revealing that about N82 billion had been paid out of over N100 billion.

She added that the government had also provided housing for civil servants through a transparent raffle system and sustained training programmes to enhance manpower development, pledging that worker’s welfare would remain a top priority of the administration.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Labour Matters, Sir Udo Kierian, in his tone setting, said May Day remained a significant occasion set aside globally to celebrate hardworking employees across both public and private sectors, noting that the state workforce had every reason to celebrate in view of the government’s favourable policies.

He stated that since assuming office in May 2023, the governor had carried workers along in governance, adding that the administration’s vision and mission had been effectively interpreted through various ministries and government offices.

Also, the NLC State Chairperson, Comrade Sunny James, commended the administration of Governor Eno for efforts in promoting workers, and sued for a more speedy process in implementation.

He also appreciated the Governor for paying gratuities till date.

“We have a leader who loves workers and is gradually clearing gratuities,” he said.

James described his tenure which began in April of 2019 as “not an easy one” noting that despite challenges, his leadership has recorded significant strides in representing workers’ interest.

He urged workers to remain committed and united as he bows out honourably in few months.

He further noted that even in moments of disagreement, Governor Eno had consistently demonstrated a willingness to find common ground, resolving issues amicably.

Akwa Ibom

Akwa Ibom Governor

In their various solidarity messages, Head of Civil Service, Mrs. Elise Peter, Speaker, House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, Chief Judge represented by Justice Effiong Effiong, TUC Chairman Mr. Akpan, State Chairperson Joint Public Sector Negotiation Committee, Comrade Akpan, commended the Governor for his commitment to worker’s welfare, noting that despite occasional disagreements, the governor had always sought for ways of bettering the lots for workers.

They also acknowledged his administration’s efforts in promoting workers, mobilising contractors back to sites, and gradually clearing outstanding gratuities, while expressing optimism that the existing cooperation between labour and government would further enhance development and industrial harmony in the state.

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Akwa Ibom

NAF Helicopter Landing Inspires Youths, Strengthens Bonds In Akwa Ibom Community

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NAF

NAF Helicopter Landing Inspires Youths, Strengthens Bonds In Akwa Ibom Community

A routine flight turned into an unforgettable moment in Nsit Ibom as Nigeria marked Workers’ Day. The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) demonstrated its people-focused service during a routine liaison mission within the Niger Delta area.

While en route on the mission, the crew executed a precautionary landing at a primary school football field in Nsit Ibom LGA, in line with standard safety procedures.

The unexpected arrival of the helicopter transformed the quiet community space into a scene of excitement, drawing children and youths from Afaha Abia and Ikot Obio Asanga villages, many witnessing a military helicopter up close for the first time. What began as a routine mission quickly evolved into a meaningful moment of connection and inspiration.

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Seizing the opportunity, NAF personnel engaged warmly with the young audience, sharing insights into career pathways and emphasizing the values of discipline, service, and patriotism. The interaction ignited hope and aspiration among the youths, with several expressing a desire to join the Service.

NAF

NAF

Seamless coordination between Nigerian Air Force and Nigerian Army personnel, alongside the warm reception by community leaders, further reinforced the strong bond between the military and the people.

Following necessary aviation procedures, the helicopter safely departed and has since returned to base, leaving behind more than just a story, it sparked hope, pride, and stands as a powerful testament to the Nigerian Air Force’s enduring commitment to national defence, community engagement, and inspiring the next generation.

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Akwa Ibom

Akwa Ibom Airport Commences International Operations With Maiden Flight To Ghana

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Ibom Air

Akwa Ibom Airport Commences International Operations With Maiden Flight To Ghana

Today, the people of Akwa Ibom State rolled out the drums, once again, in celebration of a milestone achievement with the completion of the international terminal and the commencement of international operations at the Victor Attah International Airport.

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The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, was on ground, and officially declared the airport ready for international operations.

Ibom Air

Ibom Air

The State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, expressed satisfaction with the development, saying, “I am indeed proud to be an Akwa Ibomite.”

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