Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno has stated that there should be no excuse for local government councils in the state not to execute impactful projects that will enhance the socioeconomic well-being of grassroots communities.
Eno made this assertion in Eket Local Government Area over the weekend during the Inauguration of the newly constructed 5,000-capacity Eket City Hall and the foundation laying of an ultra-modern legislative complex.
The governor represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Frank Archibong, he said the projects align with the ARISE Agenda of his administration.
“I am excited to be in Eket. This is a landmark project. Whenever you see this picture anywhere, you’ll know it’s Eket,” he said. “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.”
He expressed that the commissioning City Hall would not only serve as an events center but also as a revenue-generating asset for the council. “Local government councils in Akwa Ibom have no excuse not to execute projects,” he declared.
Highlighting the scope of the occasion, he further added, “This three-pronged event—the disbursement of a N50 million grant, the foundation laying of the legislative chamber, and the commissioning of this magnificent edifice—will be remembered in the annals of this land’s history.”
While speaking earlier, the Chairman of Eket Local Government Area, Mr. Akaniyene Tommey, said the projects reflect his administration’s commitment to support the transformative ARISE Agenda.l of governor Eno
“The Eket City Hall is more than just a building; it is a symbol of unity and progress,” he noted. “With a 5,000-seat capacity, complemented by offices and a mini-conference hall, the facility is designed to host major events, conferences, and social gatherings.”
He further emphasized the potential of the hall which will boost the economic drive of the council and create employment opportunities
On the empowerment initiative, Tommey highlighted the launch of the Eket ARISE Empowerment program for SmallBiz, which disbursed N50 million to 500 entrepreneurs. “This is a clear demonstration of our resolve to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which are the backbone of our local economy—just as His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, has prioritized SME empowerment,” he said.
“The impact of this grant will be far-reaching—stimulating local businesses, boosting productivity, and improving the standard of living for our people,” he concluded
