Governor of the Year Awards: MD Calakwa, Johnson Attah Eulogizes Gov Eno, Thanks THISDAY, LEADERSHIP Newspapers

 

The MD, Calakwa Integrated Services Ltd, Hon. Johnson Attah, has commended Governor Umo Eno on his recognition as Governor of the Year 2024, describing the award as a fitting honour for an altruistic and people-centric leader.

Recall that the Akwa Ibom State Chief Executive recently received accolades for Prudent Financial Management, Security, and Infrastructure at the prestigious THISDAY Newspaper and ARISE News event, just a fortnight after being named Governor of the Year 2024 by LEADERSHIP Newspaper.

In his congratulatory message, Attah, a shipping expert with over 23 years experience in the maritime sector, expressed gratitude to the media organizations for recognizing the Governor’s efforts in economic growth, security, and governance, noting that such honours reinforce his commitment to development and the well-being of Akwa Ibom people.

"As a strong advocate of the ARISE Agenda, I appreciate His Excellency's relentless dedication to infrastructure, security, and investment-friendly reforms, which have made Akwa Ibom a cynosure of all eyes and hub for commerce and industry," Attah stated.

He further prayed for divine wisdom, strength, and grace for the Governor to continue leading the state to greater heights, affirming that Akwa Ibom is on a steady path of growth and sustainable development under his leadership.

Hon. Attah

Infrastructural Revolution in Itu: KUFREABASI EDIDEM EULOGIZES GOV ENO

 

•••Vows Continued Support Beyond 2027

The Deputy Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. KufreAbasi Edidem, has eulogized the administration of Governor Umo Eno, for its remarkable strides in transforming the infrastructural landscape of Itu Local Government Area.

Edidem, who represents Itu State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, gave the commendation during a recent inspection tour of ongoing projects across the local government area, including a massive road work in Oku Iboku-Ayadehe Road, which passes through the palace of the Paramount Ruler of Itu, HRM Edidem Edet Inyang.

Among the key projects inspected were the 5.5km Oku-Iboku-Ayadehe Road, the 5km T-Junction to Mary Slessor Hospital Road, the 4km Uyo Village Road, and the 4.7km Itam Industrial Layout/Quality Ceramic Road linking the Mbak, Ikot Ebom, and Ikot Ekwere communities. Also included were the remodelling of Etaha Itam Market, with a new park, street lighting, and toilet facilities, the Model Primary School in Odiok Itam, the Calabar-Itu Road erosion and drainage project, and the 2.07km Itu-Urua Ekpa Road with underground drainage.

Fielding questions from journalists and members of the State House of Assembly Press Corps, Edidem, who is a former Chairman of Itu Local Government, stated that Itu had never witnessed such an extensive infrastructural transformation, explaining that this was the reason the area had long been advocating for government intervention.

"Itu has never had it this good in terms of road construction. This is the only administration that has remembered the local government in such a significant way. We owe Governor Umo Eno our massive support," he emphasized.

The lawmaker further called on youths in the area to maintain peace and cooperate with contractors to ensure the timely completion of these projects. He also urged the contractors to strictly adhere to project specifications and local content policies to avoid any disruption.

Prior to inspecting the 5.5km Oku Iboku-Ayadehe Road, which passes through the Paramount Ruler's palace, the lawmaker first paid a courtesy visit to the royal father to express gratitude for his efforts in maintaining peace. He assured the Paramount Ruler that the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly would continue to offer the necessary support to ensure the successful completion of the projects, including addressing any funding or cost variation challenges faced by contractors.

The elated Paramount Ruler of Itu, HRM Edidem Edet Inyang, in his response, lauded Edidem and the Itu Local Government Chairman, Hon. Ubong Nkutt, for their strong teamwork in driving development in the area. He particularly commended the lawmaker for offering effective and responsive representation to the constituency.

The Royal Father pledged the full support of the traditional institution for the successful execution of the projects, urging relevant authorities to resolve any challenges that may arise during implementation.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Speaker, while expressing strong confidence in the future of Itu under the ARISE Agenda of Governor Umo Eno, assured that the people of Itu, who have benefitted greatly from the administration, will remain steadfast in their support for the Governor’s vision, even beyond 2027.

ARISE Senior Citizens Centre: Former Uyo Council Boss Commends Governor Eno for Bringing Late Wife’s Vision to Life

 

The immediate past Transition Chairman of Uyo Local Government, Hon. Sylvia Ekong, has commended the State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for bringing to reality the vision of his late wife, Pastor Patience Umo Eno, with the establishment of the ARISE Senior Citizens Centre in Akwa Ibom State.

Hon. Ekong made the remark on Saturday during the foundation-laying ceremony of the Centre at Itak, Ikono Local Government Area.

Speaking to newsmen, the Uyo-born politician described the project as a significant step towards improving the welfare of senior citizens in the state.

She said, “The ARISE Senior Citizens Centre is truly a remarkable project. It’s not just another building but a clear expression of our Governor’s love and dedication to ensuring that our elderly citizens have a peaceful and dignified place to live out their years. As the Governor rightly pointed out, this was a vision of our dear mother, Pastor Patience Umo Eno, and it is truly awe-inspiring to witness its realization today.”

Late Pastor Mrs Eno with Akwa Ibom elderly at Government House, Uyo...

Hon. Ekong also lauded the Governor for the idea to cite the facility within the state’s growing medical corridor, which includes the Ibom Specialist Hospital and Four Points by Sheraton Hotel, a move she believes will further enhance the state’s healthcare offerings.

She urged the people of Akwa Ibom to continue supporting the Governor’s vision, noting that his leadership deserves the collective support and loyalty of all.

In his address at the epoch-making event, the State Chief Executive had reiterated that the Senior Citizens Centre was conceived by his late wife, Pastor Patience Umo Eno, who was passionate about providing specialized care for the elderly. He expressed satisfaction in seeing her dream take shape, emphasizing that the Centre would offer a safe and comfortable haven for senior citizens.

Our reporter gathered that the Centre, which will be an architectural marvel, will boast top-notch medical, recreational, and other support facilities to ensure that elderly residents age gracefully and with dignity.

𝗣𝗔𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗥 𝗨𝗠𝗢 𝗘𝗡𝗢 𝗜𝗦 𝗔 𝗝𝗜𝗡𝗫 𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗘𝗥, 𝗦𝗔𝗬𝗦 𝗝𝗢𝗛𝗡𝗦𝗢𝗡 𝗔𝗧𝗧𝗔𝗛

 •••𝑯𝒂𝒊𝒍𝒔 𝑮𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒏𝒐𝒓 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝑪𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 ₦42𝑩 𝑮𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒖𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝑨𝒓𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒔, 𝑰𝒎𝒑𝒍𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 ₦80,000 𝑴𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒎𝒖𝒎 𝑾𝒂𝒈𝒆, 𝑪𝒂𝒓 𝑮𝒊𝒇𝒕𝒔 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝑱𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒏𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒔

As accolades continue to pour in for the State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, over his recent remarkable achievements, a seasoned shipping consultant and politician, Mr. Johnson Attah, has described him as a "jinx breaker" who is redefining governance in Akwa Ibom.

The shipping expert with over 23 years experience in the maritime sector made the commendation during a chat with newsmen and bloggers in Uyo on Tuesday.

Reacting to questions about the Governor's recent strides, Attah lauded Pastor Umo Eno for his unprecedented efforts to address lingering issues affecting workers and retirees in the state.

His words: "His Excellency our leader, Pastor Umo Eno, Ph.D, is truly a jinx breaker. To clear ₦42 billion so far, in gratuity arrears dating back to 2012 within 20 months in office is remarkable. It shows His Excellency's dedication to restoring dignity to our senior citizens."

The Mkpat Enin-born former Governorship aspirant also commended Pastor Eno for authorizing the implementation of the ₦80,000 new minimum wage, which is set to benefit over 45,000 verified public servants, backdated to November 2024.

According to him: "This is a bold and historic move and it reflects the Our Leader's empathy for workers especially in this harsh economic situation where almost all prices of goods and commodities have skyrocketed."

Mr Attah used the occasion to thank the Governor's generosity toward journalists in the state. He noted that the recent presentation of a brand-new SUV to the State Chairman of NUJ, Comrade Amos Etuk, and 12 brand new saloon cars to members of the union's State Working Committee was unprecedented. 

Attah further urged Akwa Ibomites to support the current administration wholeheartedly, opining that the ARISE Agenda is laying the foundation for a prosperous state.

"Gentlemen, I’ve said this time and again. We are witnessing a new dawn in Akwa Ibom State. In just 20 months, the strides in agricultural revolution, rural transformation, infrastructure renaissance, top-notch security, unprecedented advancements in education, and so much more, speak volumes. Even the harshest critic would agree that the Umo Eno administration is truly committed to improving lives. These remarkable achievements reflect a leadership that is both visionary and deeply focused on the people."

He used the occasion to remind civil servants that to whom much is given, much is also expected, urging them to show greater commitment to their duties and contribute meaningfully to the development of the state. 

Johnson Attah also charged journalists to support the government through balanced and development-driven reportage, emphasizing the vital role of the media in fostering unity and progress in Akwa Ibom State.

Nduka Obaigbena Leads ARISE News Teams to Cover Trump Inauguration, World Economic Forum

 

ARISE News, under the leadership of its Chairman and Editor-in-Chief, Nduka Obaigbena, has deployed teams to Washington, D.C., and Davos, Switzerland, for extensive coverage of two global events.

In Washington, the ARISE team is on the ground to report on the inauguration of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States. This follows an invitation extended by a former ARISE News staff member, now aligned with Trump’s team. The team, comprising Ohi Odiai, Adefemi Akinsanya (reporting from Turkey), and Opeyemi Adenihun, is set to provide detailed coverage of the event, including exclusive behind-the-scenes insights.

Meanwhile, another ARISE News team has arrived in Davos for the annual World Economic Forum (WEF), where Vice President Kashim Shettima is leading Nigeria’s delegation. Anchors Rotus Oddiri, Adesuwa Omoruan, and Ivica Babic are positioned to deliver updates on key discussions involving global business leaders and Nigeria’s economic focus.

ARISE News is committed to bringing its audience timely and in-depth reports from these significant events as they unfold.

Judge Reserves Ruling in Mareva Injunction Case Involving First Bank and General Hydrocarbons Limited

 

The High Court sitting before Justice Dipeolu on Friday, January 17, 2025, heard arguments on an application to set aside a Mareva injunction and other ex parte orders obtained by First Bank of Nigeria (FBN) and FBNQuest Limited against General Hydrocarbons Limited (GHL) and others.

Dr. Abiodun Layonu (SAN), representing the defendants, contended that the plaintiffs failed to disclose critical facts, notably an earlier judgment by Justice Lewis-Allagoa of the Federal High Court. That judgment barred FBN from enforcing any security or assets linked to GHL's oil operations on OML 120 until arbitration proceedings are resolved. Dr. Layonu argued that this omission amounted to suppression of facts, misguiding the court into granting the Mareva injunction.

He emphasized that the plaintiffs improperly approached the court through an originating summons, asserting that the matter remains under arbitration and no judgment sum has been awarded. Furthermore, the plaintiffs, he said, had not proven their case, particularly concerning the disputed sums, before securing the injunction.

Dr. Layonu also highlighted that the contested asset, an oil block, cannot be dissipated or relocated, questioning the rationale for the Mareva order. He accused the plaintiffs of employing “strong-arm tactics,” including media campaigns, to frustrate GHL's operations.

Counsel for the second to fifth defendants, Mr. Olumide Aju (SAN), argued that his clients—directors of GHL—should not have been joined in the suit, as they were not parties to the contract in question nor had they issued personal guarantees. He described the suit as a case of forum shopping and abuse of court processes, urging the court to lift the Mareva order and strike out the case against his clients.

Additionally, Mr. Abiodun Anibaba, representing the sixth and seventh defendants, stated that his clients had no involvement in the transactions under dispute and questioned why they were included in the case. He pointed out procedural irregularities, arguing that an undertaking for damages, required before granting a Mareva injunction, was treated as an afterthought.

After hearing submissions from all parties, Justice Dipeolu reserved ruling on the application to set aside the Mareva injunction.

𝗔𝗧𝗧𝗔𝗛 𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗦 𝗚𝗢𝗩 𝗘𝗡𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗖𝗘𝗟𝗟𝗘𝗡𝗧 𝗜𝗡 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰, 𝗨𝗥𝗚𝗘𝗦 𝗠𝗢𝗥𝗘 𝗦𝗨𝗣𝗣𝗢𝗥𝗧 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱

 

Mkpat Enin-born shipping consultant and politician, Mr. Johnson Attah, has applauded Governor Umo Eno’s stellar performance in 2024, describing his leadership as people-centric and inspiring.

Speaking during a New Year’s Eve interaction with newsmen in Uyo, the state capital, Attah, a seasoned shipping expert with over 23 years of experience, offered a detailed assessment of Governor Eno’s sectoral achievements under the ARISE Agenda. He noted that the Governor’s approach to governance has made significant impacts in critical sectors such as Agriculture, Rural transformation, Infrastructure, Healthcare, Security, Education and more.

The former governorship candidate commended the Governor's awe-inspiring strides in agriculture, particularly the widely celebrated Farm Free Days and the provision of improved agricultural inputs to local farmers. He noted that these initiatives and many others, have significantly increased food production while empowering rural communities to enhance their livelihoods.

In the area of infrastructure, Attah lauded the Governor's steadfast commitment to enhancing connectivity through the inauguration of major road projects and the proactive mobilization of contractors to ensure swift progress, especially during this dry season. He particularly extolled the Governor's hands-on leadership style, noting that it has kept development steadily on track across all 31 local government areas of the state.

Education also took centre stage in Attah’s commendation, as he described the governor’s unimaginable efforts in building model schools, increasing bursaries, and providing free learning materials as game-changing moves that are preparing Akwa Ibom children for a brighter future.

In healthcare, the Mkpat Enin born politician lauded the governor’s strides in establishing primary healthcare centres, free medical programmes for vulnerable groups, and the planned restructuring of the Ibom Specialist Hospital among others.

While urging Akwa Ibom people to remain steadfast in their support for Governor Eno, Attah expressed confidence that 2025 would bring even greater milestones. He called on citizens, at home and in the Diaspora to rally around the governor and support him genuinely.

Mr. Johnson Attah who emphasized that all sons and daughters of the State have a role to play in making 2025 a better year for Akwa Ibom, pledged his continued loyalty and support to Governor Umo Eno and his ARISE agenda.