Akwa Ibom Governor announces N35bn payment in gratuity arrears

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has disclosed that N35 billion of the outstanding gratuity arrears for retired workers in the state will have been paid by the end of September 2024.

The Governor made this announcement during a meeting with the Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio, a prominent Ibibio socio-cultural organization, in Uyo.

Governor Eno explained that the payment represents nearly 50% of the decades-long backlog of gratuity owed to retirees in Akwa Ibom. He added that another payment installment, expected later this month, will further reduce the outstanding amount.

The Governor also highlighted his administration’s commitment to prudent financial management, stating that significant projects, including the procurement of two Bombardier CRJ 900 aircraft for Ibom Air, had been achieved without external loans. The N60 billion deal to expand the state-owned airline’s fleet was funded entirely from state revenue.

“We are committed to utilizing state funds efficiently for development projects and investments, avoiding loans that would place the state in perpetual debt,” Governor Eno said.

He announced that 25 new projects would be initiated and completed before the second anniversary of his administration, all without borrowing.

He emphasized the importance of avoiding a cycle of indebtedness that would benefit creditors at the state’s expense, stressing that Akwa Ibom must retain financial autonomy to ensure its people are the primary beneficiaries of government investments.

“Since I came into office about 15 months ago, we have embarked on massive projects. About 25 more projects will commence between now and our second anniversary, all without borrowing,” the Governor added.

Governor Eno’s administration has focused on balancing development with fiscal responsibility, aiming to make Akwa Ibom self-sufficient and reduce the financial burden on future generations.