Ikot Ekpene Political Leader Sen. Ibokessien Hails Gov Eno on NGF Award, 2 Years of ARISE Agenda

 

Former Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate and political leader of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, has congratulated Governor Umo Eno on his emergence as Nigerian Governors’ Forum Governor of the Year 2025 and on the successful two-year evaluation of the ARISE Agenda.

Ibok Essien made the remarks yesterday in a chat with journalists shortly after the public presentation of the socio-economic impact of the ARISE Agenda held at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Uyo.

The founder of Ritman University described the twin milestones as “a clear testament to purposeful leadership, fiscal discipline and people-focused governance.” 

The Political Leader commended Governor Eno, for keeping to his inaugural pledge of subjecting his administration to periodic public appraisal, noting that such transparency not only strengthens public trust but also sets a new governance benchmark in the state.

His words: “His Excellency our dear Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, Ph.D has brought a refreshing blend of humility, competence and accountability into governance and I make bold to say that Akwa Ibomites and by extension Nigerians are proud of him.  The NGF award for instance, affirms what we already know in Akwa Ibom, that his policies are people-centred, his development model is inclusive, and his results are measurable. The ARISE Agenda is indeed, a working blueprint that is changing lives.”

The former lawmaker lauded the Governor’s emphasis on accurate data, fiscal prudence, and sectoral balance in project execution, adding that the delivery of social services, road infrastructure, housing, aviation expansion, and healthcare within two years without resorting to borrowing “reflects rare discipline in public finance management.”

He used the opportunity to urge political stakeholders and residents to rally behind the Governor in consolidating on the gains recorded so far, assuring him of his personal support and collaboration towards the realisation of the ARISE Agenda in Ikot Ekpene.

Meanwhile, the public presentation, themed “Measuring Progress, Deepening Impact”, featured a detailed review of projects and programmes executed in line with the ARISE Agenda across multiple sectors. It was attended by Ministers, legislators, traditional rulers, civil society, and representatives of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, who also presented the NGF Governor of the Year 2025 plaque to Governor Eno during the event.

Ikot Ekpene Political Leader Sen Ibokessien Identifies Gov Eno Delivery Meeting As Engine Room Of A’IBOM Growth

 By our Reporter 

The political leader of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area and former Deputy Chief Whip of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, has hailed the Monthly Delivery Advisory Meeting initiated by Governor Umo Eno as the “engine room” driving the current wave of spectacular performance in Akwa Ibom.

Speaking to journalists shortly after the conclusion of the two-day Project Delivery Advisory Meeting held at Government House, Uyo, on Friday, July 4, Senator Ibokessien described the sessions as intelligent, well-structured, and purposeful step towards achieving measurable development across all sectors of the state in line with the ARISE Agenda.

The former National Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), said, what took place was far from the usual government talk-shop. According to the respected elder statesman, “This was serious business. You could see the level of coordination, the focus on timelines, and the honest assessment of where we are and where we want to be. It wasn’t about blowing grammar and rigmarole. It was about showing results.”

Senator Essien observed that the consistent review of key projects, with commissioners, Delivery Advisors, and other stakeholders all present and actively engaging, has introduced a refreshing approach to governance in the state.

The Founder of Ritman University, Ikot Ekpene and the first parliamentarian to represent Akwa Ibom in the ECOWAS Parliament, emphasized that Governor Eno has raised the bar of leadership through the institutionalisation of development monitoring.

His words: “This is the first time we are seeing such consistent, inclusive, and data-backed reviews of government projects where everyone, regardless of political leaning, is carried along. Indeed, that is what democracy should look like"

The Political leader lauded the Governor's directive that all MDAs must respect deadlines and submit to periodic evaluations. According to him, this approach ensures public office holders are alert to their duties and helps curb wastage of public funds.

Reacting to the Governor’s comments that “the change we seek for our state begins with us,” Essien said the Governor’s philosophy aligns with the aspirations of the people for inclusive governance and sustainable development.

“What Governor Eno is preaching is a gospel of responsibility. From what I have seen in these two days, the Governor is not only talking but walking the talk. Akwa Ibom is blessed to have him at the helm at this time,” Essien said.

He used the occasion to commend the State Chief Executive for setting a December 2026 deadline for the completion of 42 priority projects across sectors, noting that such timelines help drive accountability and instil seriousness in public service delivery.

The renowned educationist also lauded the Governor’s decision to increase the monthly allowance for corps members in the state from N5,000 to N20,000, describing it as a masterstroke in youth motivation and state branding.

Our paper earlier reported that Governor Eno had during the meeting reviewed 42 priority projects across education, infrastructure, security, tourism, agriculture, health, and industrial development and set clear timelines for their delivery. A special FGPC session was also convened to fast-track infrastructure development at the Itam Industrial Park.

I Remain Political Leader of Ikot Ekpene – Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien Declares

•••Debunks Reports of handing over to Kufre Inima

A former Deputy Chief Whip of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, has dismissed reports making the rounds on social media alleging that he has relinquished his position as the political leader of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area to one Mr. Kufre Inima.

Senator Essien, a founding member of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) and proprietor of Ritman University, described the claims as false, mischievous, and sponsored by political “desperadoes” bent on distorting facts to score cheap points.

In a strongly worded rebuttal made available to journalists in Uyo, the former lawmaker stated plainly, “I have not relinquished, abdicated, or surrendered my position as the political leader of Ikot Ekpene LGA. That claim is a fabrication by political desperadoes seeking relevance through mischief.”

The senator explained that his attendance at the June 25, 2025, defection of key PDP stakeholders into the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the Ikot Ekpene Council Secretariat was purely to honour an invitation from the council chairman and to witness a historic political realignment in the area.

According to him, while a meeting was held in the Chairman’s office before the event began, where issues such as seating arrangement and APC internal leadership tussles were discussed, it was clearly stated by the State APC Chairman that only the Governor, as leader of the party in the state, has the authority to appoint political leaders at both the ward and local government levels.

“Let it be known that the State Chairman of APC clearly stated that the power to appoint political leadership, both at the ward and local government levels, resides solely with the Governor of Akwa Ibom State. That declaration closed the debate,” Senator Essien noted.

He also gave a blow-by-blow account of the confusion that erupted during the meeting, including a violent outburst by APC youths allegedly loyal to Mr. Inima, who smashed windows at the council premises. “That was an embarrassment not to me, but to their own cause,” he added.

The elder statesman further maintained that his comments at the event were misrepresented. “At no point did I declare Mr. Kufre Inima as political leader. The video footage available speaks for itself. Let it be unequivocally known: I did not and will not relinquish the political leadership of Ikot Ekpene LGA,” he asserted.

Senator Essien emphasized that political leadership is not handed over lightly but earned through pedigree, service, and performance, not through “noise, deceit, or backdoor scheming.”

“My credentials speak for themselves,” he said, listing his roles as the first Parliamentarian to represent Akwa Ibom in ECOWAS parliament, former BOT member of the PDP for 22 years, and a renowned educationist with notable investments in the state’s development.

Describing himself as a “pillar of political wisdom” and “guardian of democratic structure,” Essien urged the public to ignore the noise and propaganda. “I am not in politics for mischief, but for purpose, leadership, and legacy,” he stated.

The heavyweight politician reiterated that he remains the undisputed political leader of Ikot Ekpene.

Eastern Obolo Chairman Emulates Gov Umo Eno’s Compassion, Unveils ₦31.5m Youth, Women Empowerment Scheme

 

Taking a cue from Governor Umo Eno’s compassionate leadership style and people-focused approach to governance, the Executive Chairman of Eastern Obolo Local Government, Rt. Hon. Samuel Nteogwuija, has kicked off a ₦31.5 million empowerment programme.

The scheme, tagged Unifier First Batch Skills Acquisition and Business Grant Scheme, was launched on Monday, June 23, and has so far benefited 60 youths and 10 women drawn from the ten wards in the oil-rich council area.

Addressing a cheering crowd of beneficiaries, Nteogwuija said the initiative was in direct response to the inclusive governance model being championed by Governor Umo Eno, adding that he is simply following the Governor’s example of touching lives through deliberate empowerment.

The Council boss said; “I consider myself a proud beneficiary of Governor Umo Eno’s transformational leadership. What we are witnessing today is not just an event, it is the fruit of the political freedom and encouragement His Excellency has extended to council leaders."

Nteogwuija recalled that shortly after assuming office seven months ago, he made a personal commitment to veer off from the usual path of token interventions and palliative handouts.

According to him, the manpower gap in Eastern Obolo, especially in technical and specialised skills, necessitated a long-term empowerment solution.

“Today, that promise is taking form. We are offering real training in practical fields such as truck and forklift operation, crane and bulldozer handling, catering, security and more. These are skills that create job opportunities beyond our shores,” he stated.

He stressed that the empowerment project was funded through careful planning and internal discipline, not from any external donations or government bailout. According to the Chairman, every kobo used for the ₦31.55 million programme was realised through prudent management of council resources.

“This is not a one-off show. It is not politics. We have put our money where our heart is. No external funding, no donations, just careful savings and the will to do right by our people,” he added.

In addition to the technical skills programme for the youth, ten women entrepreneurs will also receive direct business grants to support and scale their small-scale enterprises.

Our reporter noted that the initiative drew massive commendation from community leaders, traditional rulers, clergy and other stakeholders, who hailed it as a bold and selfless move to reposition Eastern Obolo through capacity building and inclusive growth.

Many speakers at the flag-off event noted that the Chairman’s commitment reflects a growing wave of development-focused leadership at the local level, fuelled by the Governor’s ARISE Agenda which empowers local government chairmen to lead with vision and empathy.

The empowerment drive is expected to run in batches, with more beneficiaries lined up for future editions.

Elated Eastern Obolo people who spoke to our reporter said the ripple effects of the programme could trigger a shift in the council’s economic fortunes, reducing dependency and creating a pipeline of skilled labour ready to take on opportunities across and beyond Akwa Ibom.

ENTIRE MKPAT ENIN IS APC FOR ENLIGHTENED STATE INTEREST - Attah

 

... Joins party with supporters

In a politically significant development for Akwa Ibom State, renowned maritime consultant and grassroots politician, Akparawa Johnson Attah, on Friday led a good number of his supporters in Mkpat Enin Local Government Area into the All Progressives Congress (APC) in a move he described as being in the enlightened interest of the state.

Attah, who hails from Ukpum Minya Ward 4, an urban and politically strategic ward in Mkpat Enin, made the declaration at Ekong Sampson Hall, Mkpat Enin Council Secretariat, where the APC State Chairman, Obong Stephen Ntukekpo, alongside the Chapter Chairman, Hon. Utitofon Jeremiah, formally received the decampees.

Addressing journalists and bloggers after the ceremony, which also had in attendance all the political bigwigs of the area, both serving and former political office holders, Attah declared: "Entire Mkpat Enin is APC for enlightened state interest."

According to him, the recent shift in the political alignment of Mkpat Enin is not driven by personal ambition or sentiment, but by the collective understanding that Governor Umo Bassey Eno’s defection to the APC is a critical strategic move to reposition Akwa Ibom within the national political grid.

He told newsmen that; “We are not here for politics as usual, not at all. We are here because we recognise a leadership that is calm, focused, Christ-centric, and result-oriented. Our leader, Governor Umo Eno has shown capacity and courage in leading this state. The only right thing to do is to follow him to the centre where true progress and prosperity lie.”

Attah, who boasts over 25 years of experience in Nigeria’s shipping and logistics industry, and widely regarded for his policy advocacy around the Ibom Deep Seaport, said his decision to join the APC alongside the entire Mkpat Enin people was informed by a genuine desire to see the area and Akwa Ibom benefit from deeper federal participation.

“My action and that of my kinsmen are about inclusion. It's about access. And we believe that Akwa Ibom under Governor Umo Eno has chosen the right path by connecting to the federal political engine,” he added.

The high-level defection, witnessed by APC chieftains, youth leaders, women groups, and stakeholders from across the entire wards of Mkpat Enin, was marked by jubilation and chants of solidarity as party flags and symbols were handed over to the new entrants.

Attah urged other well-meaning sons and daughters of the state to put the interest of Akwa Ibom first and close ranks around the Governor, who he described as “the stabilising factor” in the state's current political climate.

Etinan Ready to Protect Ibom Paint Industry – Uko Umoh

 

...Vows to Deal Ruthlessly with Saboteurs of Government Assets

The Executive Chairman of Etinan Local Government, Hon. (Obong) Uko Umoh, has declared the readiness of the Council to provide robust security around the revitalised Ibom Paint Industry and vowed that anyone caught sabotaging government assets within the locality would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

Speaking with journalists shortly after the official commissioning of the refurbished paint manufacturing plant in Etinan on Wednesday, the council boss lauded Governor Umo Eno for what he described as a historic and people-driven intervention in the once-abandoned facility.

“This factory had been lying waste for years, a shadow of its original promise. But today, thanks to the vision and political will of Governor Umo Eno, it has come back to life. This is a bold step towards industrial revival in line with the ARISE Agenda, and we are not taking it for granted,” Hon. Umoh stated.

He said the gesture marked a new chapter not just for Etinan but for the entire state, stressing that the economic impact of the company would reverberate across communities, especially in job creation, youth engagement, and local enterprise development.

The Chairman assured that the local government would throw its weight behind the sustainability of the project by ensuring the safety of the factory’s installations and environment.

“We have taken it upon ourselves to protect this investment. I want to make it clear, anyone caught attempting to vandalise or sabotage any government property here or elsewhere in Etinan will be dealt with decisively and in line with the law. We are not going to tolerate any act that seeks to derail what the government has built,” he warned.

Hon. Umoh also commended the Governor for the choice of Mr. Ime Uwah as Sole Administrator of the company, describing him as a thoroughbred professional with a track record of results.

“This is a critical appointment and the Governor got it right. Ime Uwah is tested and trusted. We are confident that with him in charge, the Governor’s vision for Ibom Paint will be realised in full,” he added.

Meanwhile, the inauguration drew an array of leaders who accompanied the State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno. They included, the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, SSG, Prince Enobong Uwah, Head of Service, Elder Effiong Essien, Commissioners, Members of the National and State Assemblies among others.

Excitement in Etinan as Gov. Eno Inaugurates Revitalised Ibom Paint Industry Wednesday

 

There is growing excitement in Etinan Local Government Area ahead of the scheduled visit of Governor Umo Eno on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, for the inauguration of the revitalised Ibom Paint Industry.

The event, which is slated to hold by Noon, is expected to draw top government officials, stakeholders, and residents, as the Governor continues his drive to revive moribund industries across the state.

A statement issued by the Executive Chairman of Etinan Local Government, Hon. (Obong) Uko Umoh, a copy of it was sent to our medium, called on the people of the area to turn out en masse to welcome the Governor and show appreciation for the project, which he described as a major boost for local industry and economic development.

“We shall be receiving our beloved Governor and benefactor, His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, Ph.D to Etinan. His mission is to commission the revitalised Ibom Paint Industry. By all sense of appreciation, we owe our Governor a rousing welcome,” the statement read in part.

The local government chairman urged residents to be seated by 11am ahead of the Governor’s arrival, expressing confidence that the people of Etinan would show the same hospitality and support for which they are known.

The Ibom Paint Industry, which had been dormant for several years, is one of the key assets revived under Governor Eno’s administration, in line with the industrial pillar of the ARISE Agenda.

According to the elated Council Boss, the revival of the factory will create employment opportunities, stimulate local production, and boost the economy of the area and the state at large.