By Solomon Essiet
I have never been so confused in my life until Wednesday, October 8, 2025. As usual, the Delivery Advisory Meeting was scheduled for 12 p.m. at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Uyo. Determined to arrive early before the arrival of His Excellency, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, I made sure to get there by 11:30 a.m.
The atmosphere was lively — dignitaries exchanged pleasantries, handshakes, and quiet conversations while waiting for the Governor’s arrival. Then, unexpectedly, someone whispered to me that “Oga” was going for an inspection. I was stunned. “An inspection?” I thought. Almost everyone for the meeting was already seated!
In confusion, I dashed out to the parking lot and hurriedly drove to the Press Centre, hoping to catch up with the inspection team. When I arrived, the Press Bus had already departed. That was my confirmation — the Governor was indeed heading out for a physical inspection, while also planning to return later for the indoor Delivery Advisory Team Meeting. He was multitasking at its finest.
I eventually caught up with the team. That day, Governor Eno — casually dressed in a designer shirt, face cap, and smart trousers — visited the 200-capacity Ibom International Hotel by Tropicana, located along Udoma Udoudoma Avenue. The Governor toured the facility with the contractor, expressing satisfaction with the pace and quality of work, and receiving assurances that the project would be delivered within schedule.
After the inspection, the Governor immediately proceeded to the Banquet Hall, where the Delivery Advisory Team Meeting began in earnest. Everyone was inspired by his energy, focus, and passion — hallmarks of his leadership style. Personally, witnessing his hands-on dedication reminded me that if the Governor can work that hard, I, as a media aide, have no excuse not to give my best.
During the meeting, the Governor reviewed about 27 major projects, either ongoing or awaiting commencement. Among these were:
- Dakkada Oil Palm/Tree Crop Development & Food Sufficiency
- Akwa Ibom State Electricity Market
- Arise Senior Citizen Centre
- Ibom Tourism Summit & Arise Resort
- Ibom Hotel Renovation
- Oron Ferry Boat/Jetty
- Itam Industrial Park
- AKBC House
- Ibom Convention Centre
- Ikot Ekpene International Market
- Court of Appeal Complex
- AKWAGIS Building
- Executive Quarters
- Ibom Model Farm
- Arise Farm Settlements
- Ibom International Hospital
- Mother & Child Hospitals (Ibiono Ibom, Ukanafun)
- Judiciary Quarters
- Governor’s Office Annex
- Arise Compassionate Homes
- Youth Friendly Centre
- Nigeria For Women Project
With these and other initiatives spread across the state, Governor Eno has effectively turned Akwa Ibom into a giant project site. His leadership is characterized by speed, precision, and accountability.
The Governor’s focus on results was further reinforced by the recent passage and signing of the ₦695 billion supplementary budget and the disbursement of ₦60 billion to contractors. These actions ensure that all ongoing projects will meet their deadlines and deliver tangible benefits to Akwa Ibom people.
Governor Umo Eno has done exceptionally well. Now, it is time for Akwa Ibomites to rally together, in unity, to support his second-term bid in 2027 — a mandate to continue the transformation already underway.
Arise, that same God.
— Pastor Solomon Essiet, ACIA
Special Assistant on New Media to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State
📸 Photo Highlights
Check the pictures below capturing moments from Governor Umo Eno’s physical inspection and indoor Delivery Advisory Team Meeting at Government House, Uyo. The images reflect his active leadership style, hands-on governance, and commitment to project delivery under the Arise Agenda.
Governor Umo Bassey Eno during the Delivery Advisory Team Meeting and inspection tour of key ongoing projects in Akwa Ibom State — demonstrating his trademark blend of focus, energy, and accountability in governance. The session featured senior government officials, contractors, and advisors reviewing over 27 major projects across the state.
