•Governor Umo Eno
… presents cheques to winners of ARISE home farm competition
Akwa Ibom State governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has reaffirmed his government’s resolve to see through the completion of all ongoing projects, whether newly- initiated or inherited, as part of the implementation of the ARISE Agenda.
Speaking at a variety night to mark the third anniversary of his administration, held at the Club House Arena, ARISE Palm Resort, Uyo, the governor said his administration remains committed to projects, programmes and policies that will touch lives and ensure the security and social well-being of the citizenry.
He expressed delight that the variety night was held at the ARISE Palm Resort, a once ravaging gully erosion site, that was strategically reclaimed and transformed into a world class tourism facility.
The governor said the event was intentionally hosted at the location which stands as one of his administration’s signature projects, stressing that his administration focuses on projects that will impact and benefit the people and not for self glorification.
He highlighted key accomplishments of his administration, saying Akwa Ibom has proven itself to be not just a promise land but a land of fulfillment. He, however, acknowledged that despite the strides recorded so far, considerable work remains ahead.
The governor appreciated the citizenry for the support thus far and expressed hope that they will continue to support the administration in consolidating the gains already made.
He specifically appreciated his predecessor, Deacon Udom Emmanuel for his remarkable support that culminated in his election as the governor in 2023.
Governor Eno also appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, for supporting his administration and his second term bid.
Speaking on the 2027 general elections, he urged political actors to avoid insults, division and unnecessary hostility, and focus on issue-based engagement.
“Let’s keep it simple and easy. Let’s keep away the name-calling and the insults. Let’s talk about issues. Let’s tell Akwa Ibom people what we will do for them,” he said.
He appreciated the presence of leaders from different political parties at the celebration, describing it as evidence that Akwa Ibom’s development transcends partisan interests.
Setting the tone for the event, Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, said it was a gathering to celebrate superlative performance, stressing that it was gratifying to have the third anniversary on a once ravaging gully erosion site, reclaimed and transformed to a serene tourism destination.
He enumerated numerous strides of the government in three years which he said were worth celebrating to include; payment of over 80 billion of backlog of gratuity, completion of the new-terminal at the Victor Attah International Airport and the launch of the maiden international flight from Uyo to Ghana, model healthcare centres and primary schools, over 438 compassionate homes, international convention center, Ibom Hotel, the tree crops revolution, equipment leasing company, and 1304 km of roads and 41 bridges completed/under construction.
Unveiling winners of the ARISE Home Farmers Scheme 2.0, Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr Offiong Offor, disclosed that participation in the scheme surged from above 600 entries in its first edition in 2024 to 15,621 entries in the second edition, describing the increase as evidence of growing acceptance of Governor Eno’s Back-to-Farm initiative.
She said the competition encouraged residents to cultivate vegetables, poultry, aquaculture, and other produce within their homes, helping to improve household food security and incomes.
According to Dr Offor, participants demonstrated remarkable creativity, with some converting limited spaces into thriving vegetable gardens and mini livestock farms.
She appreciated the governor for increasing the number of winners from 50 to 100 participants, saying, “This is not just a competition, it is a wake-up call for people to participate in food production from their homes.”
The celebration featured performances by star artistes including; the Loud Urban Choir, Kids Harmonic Choir, Akwa Ibom Young Professionals, the Akwa Ibom State University Theatre Group, Promise Land Choral Voice and La Vie Live Band, alongside glow and neon displays, aerial silk performances, a contortionist and aerial hoop showcase, and comedy by popular entertainers Kenny Blaq and Dan The Humourous.
