Eno unveils ARISE 2.0, promises more projects for Akwa Ibom
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has unveiled his manifesto and development blueprint, tagged ARISE 2.0, ahead of the 2027 general elections, promising more ambitious projects and a shift towards an investment-driven economy.
Eno made the announcement during the unveiling of the manifesto and inauguration of the All Progressives Congress (APC) State Campaign Council, describing the occasion as a defining moment in the state’s development journey. He said the campaign would be anchored on the theme, “We Are Well Able”, drawn from Numbers 13:30.
Reflecting on his administration’s performance since assuming office on May 29, 2023, the governor said the ARISE Agenda had laid the foundation for progress in road infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, housing, tourism and youth empowerment. He explained that ARISE 2.0 would build on these achievements, with priorities including investment promotion, support for entrepreneurs, commercial agriculture, agro-industrialisation and job creation.
On tourism, Eno said his administration planned to harness the state’s natural attractions, cultural heritage and hospitality to position Akwa Ibom as a destination for conferences, entertainment, holidays, sports and cultural festivals. He also disclosed plans to remodel the city centre with an iconic tower, flyover and other facilities to transform Uyo’s skyline.
The governor promised sustained investment in roads, electricity, transportation, education, healthcare and technical training, while emphasising that young people must become active participants in the state’s emerging economy. He added that social protection programmes would continue to cater for elderly people, persons with disabilities and vulnerable families.
On the Ibom Deep Seaport project, Eno described it as a major pillar of the state’s economic ambition, thanking President Bola Tinubu for his support following progress in the relevant certification and approval processes. He said the project, alongside investments in tourism, agriculture and industry, would position Akwa Ibom as a maritime, logistics and commercial hub.
Addressing campaign council members, Eno urged them to focus on governance records, policies and the welfare of residents while conducting peaceful, issue-based campaigns. “We must take our message to every ward and unit, work together and secure at least two million votes for President Bola Tinubu,” he said.
Akpabio commended Eno’s leadership and urged him to remain focused on his administration’s programmes. Earlier, the Director-General of the Campaign Council, Ambassador Assam Assam, SAN, pledged the council’s commitment to a disciplined campaign, citing the administration’s achievements, including over 1,500 kilometres of ongoing and completed road projects and the recruitment of more than 3,000 teachers.
