Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has called on local government councils across the state to ensure they carry out meaningful projects aimed at improving the socioeconomic status of communities at the grassroots level.
The governor made these remarks during a visit to Eket Local Government Area, where he inaugurated the newly completed 5,000-capacity Eket City Hall and laid the foundation for a modern legislative complex.
The event, which took place over the weekend, was attended by various officials, including the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Frank Archibong, who represented Governor Eno at the ceremony.
In his speech, Archibong conveyed the governor’s message that there should be no excuses for local governments not to embark on projects that can have a significant impact on the people.
“This is a landmark project. Whenever you see this picture anywhere, you’ll know it’s Eket,” Archibong quoted Governor Eno as saying, referring to the City Hall. “Though it serves the Eket Senatorial District, the hall is also available for use by the state. This is the ARISE Agenda at work in Eket Local Government.” The ARISE Agenda is a core initiative of Governor Eno’s administration, focusing on inclusive development and creating opportunities at the local level.
The Eket City Hall, which can accommodate up to 5,000 people, was described as a major asset not only for the Eket region but also for the state. Governor Eno noted that the hall would serve as a multipurpose venue for various events while also contributing to the generation of revenue for the local council. “Local government councils in Akwa Ibom have no excuse not to execute projects,” he stated.
The event also featured the launch of several initiatives aimed at supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs. Governor Eno pointed to the grant of N50 million, which was distributed to 500 entrepreneurs as part of the Eket ARISE Empowerment Initiative SmallBiz Grant. This grant, designed to empower small and medium enterprises (SMEs), was seen as an essential part of strengthening the local economy.
Mr. Akaniyene Tommey, the Chairman of Eket Local Government Area, also spoke at the event, emphasizing that the Eket City Hall was not just a physical structure but a symbol of unity and progress for the community. He further added that the facility would provide employment opportunities and stimulate local economic activity. “The impact of this grant will be far-reaching—stimulating local businesses, boosting productivity, and improving the standard of living for our people,” Tommey said.
