Says ARISE Agenda Has Delivered Unprecedented Transformation Across A' IbomThe Honourable Special Adviser to the Governor on Political and Social Re-orientation, Barr. Kufre Udosen, has described Governor Umo Eno as a visionary, prudent and compassionate leader whose administration has redefined governance in Akwa Ibom State through strategic investments, fiscal discipline and people-centred policies.
Speaking with journalists over the weekend, Barr. Udosen said the Governor’s ARISE Agenda has moved beyond a campaign promise to become a practical development blueprint that is transforming lives across infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, transportation, tourism, aviation, housing, power, security, youth development, social welfare and economic management.
According to him, one of the administration’s greatest accomplishments has been its prudent management of public finances.
“Despite inheriting enormous financial obligations, including ₦111 billion in outstanding pension and gratuity liabilities owed to retired civil servants, Governor Umo Eno has demonstrated exceptional fiscal discipline by successfully liquidating inherited bank loan obligations and paying over ₦86 billion of the outstanding pension and gratuity arrears. This reflects a government that values workers and retirees while sustaining investments in critical infrastructure and development.”
Barr. Udosen also applauded the administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability and sound public financial management, noting that Akwa Ibom recently received a US$6.2 million World Bank reward for transparency and good governance, a recognition he described as a validation of Governor Umo Eno’s reform-driven leadership.
On infrastructure, he noted that over 1,300 kilometres of roads have either been completed or are under construction across the State, opening up rural communities, stimulating economic activities and improving access to markets, schools and healthcare facilities.
He also commended the successful implementation of the Zero Potholes Initiative in Uyo metropolis and the replacement of diesel-powered streetlights with solar-powered streetlights, noting that the initiative has significantly reduced energy and maintenance costs while making the capital city cleaner, safer and more environmentally sustainable.
Barr. Udosen said the introduction of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses has provided residents with safer, cheaper and environmentally friendly transportation, helping to cushion the effects of rising transport costs.
Speaking on tourism and aviation, he highlighted the development of the ARISE Resort, the revitalisation of the Ibom International Convention Centre and sustained investments in the hospitality sector. He further noted that the Victor Attah International Airport has commenced scheduled international flights to Accra, Ghana, operating twice weekly, while ongoing investments in the Aviation Village and other aviation infrastructure continue to position Akwa Ibom as a regional aviation hub.
He also commended the renewed drive towards the actualisation of the Ibom Deep Seaport, describing the project as a major catalyst for industrialisation, maritime commerce and economic growth.
According to Barr. Udosen, the healthcare sector has recorded significant milestones through the construction of the 350-bed Medical City, the upgrading of health facilities, the establishment of functional Primary Healthcare Centres across the 31 Local Government Areas and the creation of youth-friendly centres to equip young people with ICT and digital skills.
He equally applauded the construction of Model Primary Schools across the State and sustained investments in education and human capital development.
Barr. Udosen further noted that Governor Umo Eno has continued to demonstrate uncommon compassion through the construction of over 400 Compassionate Homes for vulnerable families, regular food support for indigent households and the establishment of an Elderly Care Centre for senior citizens.
On agriculture, he described the establishment of the Agricultural Equipment Leasing Company as a landmark initiative that is promoting mechanised farming, increasing food production, creating employment opportunities and strengthening food security.
Describing Governor Umo Eno as one of Nigeria’s most youth-friendly governors, Barr. Udosen cited the increase in the monthly allowance for National Youth Service Corps members serving in Akwa Ibom State from ₦5,000 to ₦20,000, the extension of the same support to Akwa Ibom indigenes serving outside the State, the reconstruction of the NYSC Orientation Camp, the strengthening of the Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre and several youth empowerment programmes.
He also commended Governor Umo Eno’s commitment to inclusive governance, noting that the administration has appointed the highest number of political office holders since the creation of Akwa Ibom State. According to him, the appointments reflect the Governor’s deliberate policy of broadening participation in governance, promoting inclusiveness and ensuring that every part of the State has a sense of belonging.
He particularly highlighted the appointment of Personal Assistants across the 369 wards of the State, describing the initiative as unprecedented. He said it has strengthened grassroots governance, improved communication between government and the people, deepened political inclusion and enhanced the implementation of government policies at the community level.
Barr. Udosen also praised the Governor’s efforts in strengthening security through the incorporation of Village Youth Presidents into the State’s security architecture, the establishment of a modern Security Command and Control Centre and the continuous provision of operational vehicles, communication equipment and logistics support to security agencies.
He further highlighted the State Power Summit, the expansion of Ibom-LED, the construction of Commissioners’ Quarters, Legislative Quarters, the Judiciary Village and several strategic government projects as evidence of an administration committed to institutional development and efficient public service.
He observed that, beyond completed projects, the administration currently has more than 86 major projects progressing simultaneously across different sectors of the economy, describing the feat as unprecedented in the history of Akwa Ibom State.
Barr. Udosen maintained that Governor Umo Eno’s achievements are visible across every sector and have significantly improved the socio-economic landscape of the State.
He therefore urged Akwa Ibom people to continue supporting the Governor’s administration.
“Governor Umo Eno knows what he is doing. His administration is driven by vision, prudence, compassion and purposeful leadership. Today, the evidence of good governance is visible across Akwa Ibom State. Roads are being constructed, hospitals are rising, schools are being built, pensioners are receiving their entitlements, vulnerable citizens are being supported, agriculture is expanding, tourism is growing, security has been strengthened and major legacy projects are progressing simultaneously.
“The ARISE Agenda is no longer just a vision; it is a living reality that is positively impacting the lives of our people. I therefore call on Akwa Ibom people to continue supporting His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, as he continues to build a stronger, more prosperous and more united Akwa Ibom State.”