MY REPLY:
Those who claim that Pastor Umo Eno is not making significant contributions likely misunderstand or refuse to acknowledge his unique approach to development. It is simply incorrect to assert that the Governor isn’t building landmark projects like his predecessors. Governor Umo Eno has adopted a truly HOLISTIC strategy that combines infrastructural development with Capacity and Human Capital Development. In fact, the landmark projects I’ve outlined below indicate that he may well surpass the achievements of any of his predecessors. This is not about competition; rather, he is addressing the critical missing link that has historically hindered our progress.
I am compelled to address the growing discontent among friends on social media regarding Governor Umoh Eno’s performance. Many express the opinion that he is failing the Akwa Ibom people, as he has yet to deliver monumental and impactful landmark projects.
Critics have drawn comparisons with past Governors, highlighting the Governor’s Model Primary Schools, rural primary health centers, and Compassionate Homes for indigent families as inadequate. They argue that these initiatives are more fitting for Local Government Chairmen rather than a State Governor. Such projects are seen as trivial and do not effectively represent the true potential of Akwa Ibom State. The people demand that the Governor take decisive action and implement substantial turnkey projects that will truly elevate our State. Unfortunately they are wrong!
One day, I asked one of these individuals for a solid example of a turnkey project that the Governor should pursue. He mentioned the necessity of a Metrorail for the capital city of Uyo. I immediately questioned who would ensure constant power supply, and that’s when his suggestion abruptly fell apart. I then informed him about the impressive modern bus metroline terminal the Governor is constructing for Uyo, where passengers will be able to use smart cards and buses will operate on a precise schedule—arriving and departing exactly on time, not a minute early or late. He was unaware of this development. Ignorance is bliss!
THERE WAS A TIME WHEN OTHER NIGERIANS LOOKED DOWN ON US; THOSE DAYS ARE GONE!
Every government sets its priorities, shaped by the era in which it governs, and the distinctions between 1999, 2007, and 2015 are stark compared to 2025. In the past, projecting ourselves through infrastructure was essential for our self-image and survival within Nigeria’s polity. It was a period when many tribes viewed us through a prejudiced lens, relegating our capabilities to those of mere domestic servants, regardless of our education and accomplishments. Up until 2007, the vast majority of Nigerians could not tell the difference between Akwa Ibom State and Cross River State, often mislabeling us simply as Calabar people. But those times have gone.
We have demonstrated our prowess to the nation through Obong Victor Attah’s visionary master plan and Governor Godswill Akpabio’s Uncommon Transformation. The Akwa Ibom man has proven himself to be at the forefront of progress. Governor Udom’s completion of the ring roads and the establishment of Ibom Air as a premier airline in Nigeria are testaments to our advancement. Today, travelers from across Nigeria affirm that our roads are the best in the country.
While the journey of infrastructural development is ongoing, we stand firm in our conviction; we have nothing to prove to anyone. We have earned the respect and recognition of our fellow Nigerians. Now, what we need is robust Capacity and Human Capital Development— the bedrock of the ARISE Agenda. As Governor Umo Eno assertively states, “Our people must rise and seize the opportunities created by the infrastructure we have built.”
It’s encouraging that other Nigerians are choosing to settle here, benefiting from our infrastructure, engaging with our population, and enjoying the peace that prevails in our State. While this inclusivity is vital for a unified Nigeria, one must ask: what does the future hold for the indigenous population?
GOVERNOR UMO ENO’S NEEDS ASSESSMENT
From the very first day he unveiled his manifesto, Pastor Umo Eno made it clear that his development strategy was hinged on a decisive ‘Needs Assessment’. He committed to building only what the people truly need.
Governor Umo had pledged to kick off his administration with a pivotal initiative known as “The Akwa Ibom Dialogue,” where he launched the ARISE Agenda. This forum was designed to identify, strategize, and implement projects that directly address the needs of the Akwa Ibom community, while also pinpointing gaps in services and resource allocation. Additionally, during his Federal Constituency tour in June 2025, the Governor conducted another thorough Needs Assessment, asserting that the 2025/26 budget will be shaped by the actual needs of every Local Government Area.
Governor Umo Eno is pursuing development intentionally with purpose—not driven by ego or a desire for validation.
BETWEEN THE 21-STOREY DAKKADA TOWERS & THE 18-STOREY IBOM TOWERS: VISION, CAPACITY & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Udom’s tenure as Governor had its merits, but the construction of the 21-storey building starkly illustrates the pitfalls of pursuing infrastructure without considering the actual needs of the people.
I want to believe the Governor had the best of intentions in trying to attract Exxon Mobil and Seven Energy to establish offices in the State, he failed to recognize a critical reality: before embarking on constructing a 21-storey building for investors, there must first be a robust local capacity to support such an elitist and highly professional workforce. Human capital development must be established to sustain significant infrastructure and investment like this.
On the other hand when Governor Umo had the same vision to build a skyscraper, he was intentional, taking a deliberate and strategic approach. Unlike his predecessor, he conducted a comprehensive Needs Assessment and chose Lagos State, the economic powerhouse of Africa, as the prime location for this monumental project. Before the first foundation stone was even laid, numerous companies were already making offers to secure office space. That is the hallmark of a visionary leader!
Had Governor Umo Eno opted to locate the Ibom Tower in Uyo merely to boast about having a landmark project, it would have faced the same fate as Udom’s 21 Dakadda Tower. Rather, Akwa Ibom State now boasts a landmark project in Lagos State that will generate continuous revenue for the State. Positioned on Aboyade Cole, Victoria Island, Lagos—a coveted location in Nigeria—this tower represents a strategic financial asset.
Once completed and inaugurated, an almost entirely Akwa Ibom cadre of professionals will oversee the management of the property on behalf of the State. Furthermore, the Governor has ambitious plans to establish a three-star hotel in Abuja, the nation’s capital, which will cater to high-income earners while being managed by a dedicated Akwa Ibom workforce, our own ‘Okop Usem.’ This initiative is set to create jobs and empower our community.
Governor Umo consistently emphasizes the need to look beyond crude oil for our economic future. He has skillfully tapped into the thriving real estate markets of Lagos and Abuja, transforming previously underperforming state-owned properties into lucrative, generational investments.
GOVERNOR UMO ENO’S STRATEGIC VISION FOR CAPACITY AND HUMAN CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT THROUGH IBOM AIR’S EXCELLENCE
Capacity is a powerful force, and it has been strategically harnessed by our leaders. From Governor Akpabio’s tenure, we saw a commitment to training Akwa Ibom citizens at world-class aviation schools abroad. Governor Udom continued this legacy by training additional pilots. Now, under Governor Umo Eno, we have taken this initiative to the next level, with 37 cadets from Akwa Ibom State graduating from the esteemed Airbus Flight Academy in Angouleme, France. It’s no surprise that Ibom Air stands tall as the premier airline in Nigeria.
In the landscape of Nigeria’s economy, two brands emerge as the pinnacle of achievement:
1. Dangote in product delivery.
2. Ibom Air in service delivery.
DANGOTE is undeniably Nigeria’s leading name in product delivery. It has leveraged its brand to expand into critical sectors like Sugar, Salt, Flour, Cement, and now Petroleum refinement. Today, Dangote operates the world’s largest single-train refinery, making its name synonymous with excellence and reliability. Employing over 50,000 Nigerians, the Dangote brand is a testament to the possibilities of success and innovation in our nation.
IBOM AIR stands as the premier service delivery brand in Nigeria’s aviation industry, unmatched by any competitor. Our excellence is not merely coincidental; it is a reflection of our identity as a people dedicated to exceptional service. We take pride in our hospitality, making it an inherent part of our nature to serve our guests.
Pastor Umo Eno said and I quote him, “Ibom Air Ibom air is a masterpiece. We need to take advantage of the Ibom Air that God has brought to us and expand it. Ibom Air is a blessing. We can’t have Ibom Air, and we don’t bring people here. I have been in the service industry all my life. We are the best in service delivery in Nigeria. We are a very hospitable people, and we are very good with strangers. We hope our people will rise and take advantage of everything we put in and build in the state. We can’t have Ibom Air, and we don’t bring people here. We will market Akwa Ibom as a destination. All of our programs will be about employment”
Akwa Ibom State has been fortunate to have leaders who prioritize infrastructural development; however, our focus must shift to enhancing our people’s capacity and human capital development. This is the foundation of Pastor Umo Eno Arise’s agenda. No matter how much investment flows into infrastructure, it amounts to nothing if our citizens lack the skills to manage and leverage these projects effectively. The success of Ibom Air is a testament to this; it’s a result of the long-term vision of our Governors, starting with Obong Attah, who understood the importance of investing in the aviation industry.
We have a critical opportunity to elevate Akwa Ibom State into a premier service delivery hub for Nigeria and even West Africa, leveraging the strength of the Ibom Air brand. It’s time we challenge the status quo—when Nigerians seek to build homes, they often look to Togolese workers. Why can’t we cultivate our own reputation for excellence? Our people, once relegated to domestic service, possess the potential to emerge as the country’s new leaders and decision-makers. We have a innate gift in service delivery. And we have a Governor who epitomises service. He has served all his life.
When companies are on the lookout for top-tier talent—Chief Operating Officers (COOs), Chief Financial Officers (CFOs), Operations Managers, Marketing Managers, and Human Resources Managers—they should naturally think of Akwa Ibom State as the first choice. It’s time to make this vision a reality.
What Dangote represents in Nigeria, China embodies for the entire world. Today, there are two economic capitals in project and service delivery, and China stands as the undisputed production capital. With a highly skilled technical labor force that is unmatched globally, it’s clear why American companies cannot afford to sever ties with China. For over three decades, the Chinese government has prioritized the training and education of its workforce, fostering elite technicians and engineers. This is precisely why President Trump’s attempts to curb American companies’ operations in China face strong pushback from leading firms like Apple.
Despite the American government’s enticing promises of land, machinery, equipment, and impressive tax incentives for high-tech companies to relocate, these businesses remain steadfast in China. The reason is simple: the United States lacks the necessary technical workforce capable of building, fabricating, installing, and testing advanced gadgets in its production facilities. Chinese engineers and technicians are currently the finest in the world, making them indispensable players in the global market, and this prowess has generated millions of jobs within China.
Conversely what Ibom Air represents in the service delivery industry in Nigeria, the Philippines is the world global player. The Philippines stands unrivaled in service delivery internationally; no other nation can match its excellence. Service delivery has emerged as one of the most lucrative industry in that nation. Companies in the West, including a significant number in England, have shifted their human resources departments and customer relations operations to the Philippines, recognizing its capacity. The service delivery industry has solidified its position as a powerhouse in the global economy.
Given that Akwa Ibom State and its people have been nationally acknowledged as the best in service delivery, it is imperative that we capitalize on this strength. We have the opportunity to transform Akwa Ibom State into the premier service delivery hub of Nigeria and, ultimately, West Africa. The time to act is now.
The remarkable success of Ibom Air as the country’s premier brand for service delivery is no mere coincidence. It embodies our capabilities and our unwavering spirit. Pastor Umo Eno has made it clear when he states that “Akwa Ibom people should leverage the success of Ibom Air and partner with the brand.” This vision emphasizes the critical importance of Capacity and Human Capital Development—an endeavor of monumental significance.
The role of the ARISE Agend is to elevate the capacity and potential of Akwa Ibomites, making them the most sought-after directors, managers, administrators, and personal assistants for the nation’s elite. It is no accident that we have one of the finest CEOs leading our State today.
These words by Pastor Umo are on marble, “I have been in the service industry, all of my life, I serve. I am a pastor, I serve. I run a hospitality business I serve. I am a hands on person I don’t sit in the office and send anybody to do anything for me. Till today people still struggle when they come for meetings to stop me from opening their water and they say Governor don’t open my water. People can’t come to me and I don’t serve them. That’s who I am. I will serve the Akwa Ibom people with all of my might and its a commitment to God and to the people. Because I know I will be accountable to God for the opportunity He would have made available to me”.
THE GOVERNOR’S CAPACITY AND HUMAN CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
(1) Over 100 youths have undergone comprehensive training to effectively implement the Songhai Farms Initiative in Akwa Ibom State. This follows the strategic training of thirty-one youths who participated in the Songhai agricultural technology program in Cotonou, Benin Republic, in 2023. This initiative is a crucial step towards replicating the Songhai Farm technology in Akwa Ibom State, aligning with the agricultural revolution set forth in Governor Umo Eno’s A.R.I.S.E. Agenda.
(2) The Akwa Ibom State Government has boldly sponsored 37 Akwa Ibomites for aviation training abroad, preparing them for significant careers in the aviation sector.
(3) Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has committed a substantial donation of 250 million naira to the Ibom Leadership and Entrepreneurial Development Centre (Ibom LED) to train and mobilize approximately 400 entrepreneurs statewide, reinforcing the state’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship.
(4) The Dakkada Skills Acquisition Center (DASAC) in Uyo proudly celebrated its first graduation ceremony in March 29, 2025, where 240 trainees emerged as skilled professionals in various specialized programs. The graduates showcased expertise in agriculture, hospitality, metal and steel fabrication, wood technology, ICT, and general entrepreneurship. Governor Umo Eno recognized their achievement and affirmed that the program is empowering Akwa Ibom youths through essential skills acquisition. Graduates will be employed within various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies of the state government, while others will receive starter packs and seed funding to launch their own businesses.
(5) Arise Youth Employment Portal: This is the definitive online platform for unemployed and underemployed youths in Akwa Ibom State to register and gain access to invaluable employment opportunities and training support from the Akwa Ibom State Government (AKSG) and the Organised Private Sector (OPS). The portal will serve as a vital resource, enabling the Government and Private Sector to identify and engage skilled youths for targeted employment across civil and private sectors.
THE GOVERNOR’S LANDMARK IMPACTFUL PROJECTS
In discussing the comprehensive vision of Governor Umo Eno, it is essential to acknowledge his strategic integration of Infrastructural Development with Capacity and Human Capital Development. Critics suggesting that the Governor has not initiated significant and transformative projects overlook the factual progress being made. At this remarkable pace, it is conceivable that before he completes his second term, Governor Eno’s impactful landmark projects could achieve unprecedented recognition.
1. BUSINESS & INVESTMENT: The construction of the 18-storey Ibom Towers in Victoria Island, Lagos aims to enhance the business environment, providing modern office spaces, conference facilities, and hotel accommodations, bolstering local and international investment opportunities.
2. TOURISM: The ARISE Resort is an ambitious project that has transformed over 70 hectares of ravine land in Anua into an extraordinary tourism destination. Features include a meticulously designed 9-hole golf course, picturesque artificial lakes, luxurious apartments, an array of shops, gourmet restaurants, and comprehensive medical and security services.
3. HEALTH: A new 200-bed quaternary hospital is in development, intended to complement the existing Ibom Specialist Hospital. This facility will introduce specialized services for cancer patients, marking a significant advancement in the state’s healthcare capabilities.
4. MEDIA: The establishment of a state-of-the-art digital AKBC Broadcasting Complex represents a significant upgrade in media infrastructure, enabling improved broadcasting capabilities and enhancing information dissemination throughout the region.
5. ROADS: The Governor’s administration has launched the construction of 163 roads across the 31 Local Government Areas, covering a total distance of 750 km – seven times longer than the Calabar-Itu road. This initiative aims to improve transportation connectivity and stimulate economic growth.
6. SECURITY: A cutting-edge Security and Command Centre is being established, which will be equipped with high-tech CCTV cameras strategically installed throughout Akwa Ibom State to enhance surveillance and ensure public safety.
7. HOUSING: Currently, 400 housing units are either under development or have already been completed, with 150 of these units successfully handed over to civil servants. Additionally, a medium-density housing estate is being constructed in Ewet Housing to provide affordable housing options.
8. AVIATION: Governor Eno has made a strategic investment in aviation by purchasing an Airbus A220-300, adding to the existing fleet of seven Ibom Aircrafts. This acquisition was made without incurring any bank loans, further demonstrating fiscal responsibility.
Governor Eno often speaks of the “Finisher’s anointing,” a testament to his commitment to completing projects initiated by previous administrations. Notably, in 2010, Governor Akpabio completed the Obong Victor Attah International Airport, with both leaders credited for the project’s conception and realization.
9. BUILDINGS: The International Ibom Convention Centre in Uyo, which can accommodate 5,000 guests, is being constructed, it will serving as a premier venue for conferences, events, and exhibitions.
10. HOSPITALITY: The 200-bed Ibom Hotel in Uyo is being completed, it will provide top-quality accommodations and services for visitors and enhancing the state’s hospitality sector.
GOVERNOR UMO ENO’S SOFT PROJECTS
11. The administration has established a program where the elderly and the infirm receive N50,000 monthly to support their wellbeing and daily needs.
12. The creation of the Bulk Purchase Agency has facilitated reduced prices for essential goods, benefiting the citizens of Akwa Ibom State.
13. Through the free food voucher program, over 100,000 families have been positively impacted, ensuring access to nutritious meals.
14. The AKWACARES initiative is dedicated to supporting the most vulnerable populations and those registered in social programs, offering essential assistance.
15. Over N20 billion has been allocated as gratuities to retiring state and local government employees, ensuring financial security in their retirement.
16. To address the economic repercussions of the fuel subsidy removal, N5 billion has been distributed as palliatives to help citizens adjust to the state of flux the economy is at the moment.
17. An additional N2 billion has been allocated to traders for business expansion, fostering growth in the local economy.
18. The Entrepreneurship Accelerator Programme has provided financial support, with N500,000 granted to 800 trainees, empowering them to launch and sustain their businesses.
19. Free medical outreach programs have been actively conducted across the state, providing necessary surgeries and other medical interventions at no cost to patients.
20. The Arise Humanitarian Homes initiative involves constructing two-bedroom housing units that are fully furnished and donated to the most vulnerable members within each of the 369 wards in the state.
21. The Ibom Model Farm project is a pioneering 50-hectare Songhai-model farm located in Nsit Ubium, aimed at promoting agricultural innovation and sustainability.
22. A total of N2 billion in grants has been issued to support farmers, alongside another N2 billion to benefit traders, alongside resources for cooperatives and SMEs to enhance productivity and competitiveness.
23. Ongoing construction at Oron Beach includes new terminals, jetties, ferries, warehouses, and parks, establishing a vibrant marine commercial hub to boost tourism and trade.
24. A new Aviation Village is underway, designed to promote aviation-related businesses and services, further strengthening the state’s economy.
25. Model Schools are being constructed in all 31 Local Government Areas, designed to provide an enhanced learning environment and access to quality education for children.
26. Model Health Centres are also being established in all Local Government Areas, ensuring that health services are more accessible and efficient for our citizens.
27. The administration is committed to supporting students through bursaries, aiding persons with disabilities with a fund of N100 million, and upholding a sustained free education policy.
28. Lastly, the introduction of a modern state-of-the-art metroline bus service will improve public transportation services, facilitating better mobility for residents across Akwa Ibom State.
These initiatives collectively demonstrate Governor Umo Eno’s vision for a robust development agenda that prioritizes both infrastructure and community welfare, setting the stage for a prosperous future for Akwa Ibom State.
Ata Ikiddeh