By Bisi Ezekiel
Upon assuming office as the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State on May 29, 2023, Pastor Umo Eno made a solemn pledge to serve the people, transcending political affiliations and ethnic boundaries.
True to his word, he wasted no time and immediately set to work, demonstrating unequivocally that his pursuit of the highest position in the state was solely motivated by a desire to serve.
Having previously been a part of the preceding administration led by Governor Emmanuel Udom, Governor Umo Eno seamlessly continued the implementation of programs and policies that benefited the state and its people.
His approach to governance mirrored that of the private sector, as he dedicated every minute of his day to the responsibilities of his office, except when undertaking official trips within or outside the state.
Within a mere month in office, Governor Umo Eno achieved remarkable milestones. He successfully forged a foreign direct investment partnership with the Turkish Embassy, aiming to enhance the state’s well-being.
Furthermore, he spearheaded the establishment of the Akwa Ibom Medical City, a collaborative endeavor between the Ibom Multi-Specialist Hospital in Uyo and the Four Point By Sheraton in Ikot Ekpene.
It is worth noting that the creation of a medical corridor within this area was one of Pastor Eno’s campaign promises.
This initiative aimed to maximize the potential of the Ibom Multi-Specialist Hospital and the Four Point by Sheraton Hotel, while simultaneously generating employment opportunities for the people of Akwa Ibom.
Recognizing the ecological and environmental challenges faced by the state, Governor Eno proactively engaged key stakeholders in the environmental sector.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to partnering with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to address these challenges effectively.
During the opening ceremony of the Disaster Preparedness and Risk Reduction Strategies, focused on the outcome of the 2023 Season Climate Prediction and Annual Flood Outlook, Governor Umo Eno expressed his gratitude for the collaborative efforts of the Nigerian Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET), and Nigerian Hydrological Services (NIHSA).
He emphasized that this partnership would prevent the repetition of past mistakes in disaster management, highlighting the importance of cooperation between ministries and agencies to benefit the state.
Within the initial month of his tenure, Governor Umo Eno remained committed to fulfilling his campaign promises.
He led a delegation to launch the construction of the Ndiya Street Drainage and Solar Lighting Project in Akpan Andem Market, situated in the heart of Uyo metropolis.
The Governor also prioritized food sufficiency and the development of the agricultural value chain in Akwa Ibom State.
He made an unannounced visit to the Ibom Green House Technology facility along Airport Road, Uyo, where he was impressed by the level of innovation and technological advancements.
Determined not to neglect inherited projects from previous administrations, Governor Umo Eno embarked on an extensive tour of government facilities and ongoing projects across Akwa Ibom State.
The tour encompassed notable sites such as the Ibom E-Library and the Wet and Dry Park.
Despite his demanding schedule, the Governor made a point of connecting with the people and celebrating important occasions.
He commemorated the union of his support staff, former Miss Mary Ekeng Udoma, and the publisher of the local newspaper Global Concord, Mr. Thomas Thomas, who respectively married Pastor Aniekan George Inyang and Miss Itoro.
Bisi wrote in from Abuja
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