Three Years After, Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda Gains Momentum
Assessment Of Umo Eno’s Administration Highlights Development Across Key Sectors
GOVERNOR Umo Eno’s administration has recorded significant strides in infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, education and social welfare within three years in office, according to a policy assessment released ahead of the government’s third anniversary celebration.
The assessment, authored by commentator Richard Peters, described the governor’s leadership style as performance-driven and focused on translating policy promises into practical outcomes under the ARISE Agenda.
Focus On Agriculture And Rural Economy
A major pillar of the administration’s development strategy has been agriculture.
The state government launched the Oil Palm Tree Crop Revolution as part of efforts to reposition Akwa Ibom as a leading oil palm-producing state while supporting local farmers with grants, seedlings and mechanised farming initiatives.
The Agricultural Equipment Leasing Company was also established to provide subsidised access to farming equipment and improve productivity.
According to the report, these initiatives are intended to strengthen food security, improve farmers’ incomes and support economic diversification.
Massive Infrastructure Push
The administration has also embarked on large-scale road and bridge construction projects across the state.
Over 1,300 kilometres of roads and dozens of bridges are reportedly under construction or rehabilitation across the 31 local government areas.
The projects are expected to improve access to markets, reduce transportation difficulties and stimulate economic activities in rural communities.
The report further noted that women cooperatives across the state have received financial support and solar-powered boreholes through the GIFA programme.
Education And Human Capital Development
The government’s investment in education has equally remained a major component of the ARISE Agenda.
The administration has sustained free and compulsory education at the basic level while continuing bursary payments and institutional support for tertiary institutions.
The conversion of the Akwa Ibom College of Education into a University of Education and the recruitment of teachers were highlighted as key reforms aimed at strengthening the state’s education system.
Construction of model schools equipped with solar facilities and digital learning infrastructure is also ongoing across the senatorial districts.
Healthcare And Social Welfare Expansion
In the healthcare sector, the government has expanded access to medical services through the rehabilitation and construction of primary healthcare centres.
More than 2,800 healthcare personnel have reportedly been recruited, while health insurance coverage has expanded to thousands of residents.
Construction of the Ibom International Hospital is also progressing as part of efforts to improve specialised healthcare delivery within the state.
The report also highlighted the government’s efforts to clear pension and gratuity arrears, noting that over ₦83 billion had already been paid from inherited obligations.
Transport, Aviation And Tourism Development
Transportation and aviation infrastructure have also received considerable investment.
Ibom Air’s expansion into international routes and the acquisition of additional aircraft were identified as part of broader efforts to position Akwa Ibom as a regional economic hub.
The administration is also investing in CNG-powered transportation systems, housing estates, tourism facilities and the proposed Ibom Deep Seaport project.
According to the assessment, these projects are expected to improve connectivity, create jobs and stimulate long-term economic growth.
Political Inclusiveness And Future Plans
The report concluded that the administration’s emphasis on inclusiveness and peaceful politics has contributed to political stability within the state.
It added that plans for a second-phase development framework tagged “ARISE 2.0” are already underway, with proposed projects expected to build on the administration’s current achievements.
As Akwa Ibom marks the administration’s third anniversary, political observers say the government’s performance across multiple sectors will remain central to public discussions ahead of future political contests in the state.
