Former Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, has said that the ongoing electricity reform agenda of Governor Umo Eno will have far-reaching impact on the development of Akwa Ibom State if all stakeholders commit themselves to its success.
The political leader of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, who dissected the opening day of the two-day Electricity Summit at Four Points by Sheraton, spoke with newsmen shortly after the event, stressing that the initiative has set a new tone for the State’s economic advancement.
The Founder of Ritman University, explained that reliable electricity supply will not only strengthen the industrial sector but also drive growth in education and research. According to him, universities and centres of learning cannot thrive in today’s world without stable energy, noting that Governor Eno has laid a strong policy foundation for sustainable growth.
The respected elder statesman, widely regarded for his political influence and leadership in Akwa Ibom, observed that business owners and households stand to benefit directly from the reform. He noted that when electricity becomes stable and affordable, small and medium enterprises will expand, employment opportunities will increase, and the economy will be stimulated in line with the ARISE Agenda.
“Governor Umo Eno has once again shown courage and vision by confronting the power challenge head-on. For decades, this has remained the biggest stumbling block to our growth as a people. Today, he has given us hope that Akwa Ibom can chart its own path within the new electricity law framework. Our duty as stakeholders is to give him every support,” he said.
Ibokessien assured that stakeholders across the political, business, and education spectrum will continue to partner with government to actualize the vision. He maintained that the private sector, and critical institutions must work together to make the reforms succeed.
“As a businessman, I see opportunities. As an educationist, I see solutions for our young people. As a political leader, I see a rallying point for development. Electricity is the backbone of all sectors, and Governor Eno has given us a clear direction. We must not allow this momentum to be wasted,” the elder statesman added.
He applauded the unveiling of the State Electricity Policy and the Electricity Law, describing it as a landmark achievement that places Akwa Ibom ahead of many sub-nationals, while urging the people to stand united behind the Governor to make the vision work.
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