AKSG Highlights Key Achievements, Policy Decisions in November Briefing

AKSG Highlights Key Achievements, Policy Decisions in November Briefing

… All Set for Flag-off of Christmas Unplugged 2025

… Cautions Against Black Journalism

The Akwa Ibom State Government has released a comprehensive update on its key achievements and policy decisions for November 2025, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to the effective implementation of Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda.

Speaking at the Monthly Press Briefing on Monday, December 1, the Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah, underscored the significance of the platform in keeping journalists and the public informed about government activities, achievements, and sectoral interventions. He announced the Governor’s approval for payment of the 13th-month salary, ‘Enomber’, to all public servants in the State.

In the health sector, Governor Eno commissioned the fully equipped General Hospital at Ikot Akpankuk, Ukanafun, the first functional hospital in the area since 1976, alongside a 2.2km access and internal road network and complementary support infrastructure. The government also re-engaged retired health workers to boost manpower and sustain ongoing reforms.

During the period, the Commissioner noted that the Governor continued to push for the delivery of infrastructure and tourism projects, including the commencement of construction of the CNG Bus Station and the Oron Maritime Infrastructure. He also highlighted strengthened transparency measures, human capital development programmes, the review of the Aviation Village Project, and the commencement of the AKBC broadcast infrastructure upgrade.

The State recorded deeper partnerships in housing and the oil sector, including the groundbreaking ceremony for the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Housing Estate at Ekpene Ukim and participation in the Sail Away Ceremony for the EMEM FPSO operated by Oriental Energy Resources.

Reinforcing his focus on human capital development, Governor Eno held an unprecedented interactive session with all 783 political appointees, emphasizing loyalty, unity, equitable access to government programmes, and deeper grassroots engagement. He also inspected key projects across Nsit Ubium and Eket LGAs, including the remodeled Cottage Hospital, the Model Primary School, and the Nsit Ubium–Eket Road, directing contractors to leverage the dry season for faster delivery.

Capping the month, Governor Eno presented the ₦1.39 trillion “People’s Budget of Expansion and Growth” to the House of Assembly, with 75 percent allocated to Capital Expenditure and 25 percent to Recurrent Expenditure. The budget—derived from citizens’ needs identified during Town Hall meetings across the ten federal constituencies—represents a 16 percent reduction from the revised 2025 budget.

The Governor also inspected ongoing renovations at AKADEP, now repositioned under the Office of the Secretary to the State Government to drive the Agricultural Business Unit and lead the State’s Tree Crop Revolution aimed at rural wealth creation and enhanced palm oil production.

In the tourism sector, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Anietie Udofia, announced the State’s readiness to host the 32-day Christmas Unplugged 3.0 festival commencing December 1. He extended the Governor’s invitation to all residents and highlighted key activities lined up for the celebration. Complementing this, the Governor’s Delivery Advisor on Tourism, Sir Charles Udoh, assured that the 2025 edition will deliver richer entertainment, greater innovation, and a memorable visitor experience, citing improved economic returns from the 2024 celebration.

The Chairman of the Akwa Ibom Hotels and Tourism Board, Mrs. Ime Udo, urged the media to continue projecting the State’s socio-economic strengths to sustain its reputation as Nigeria’s preferred destination.

Also speaking, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Ekerete Udo, commended Governor Eno for fostering political reconciliation, prioritising the welfare of the poor, clearing outstanding gratuities, and consistently making decisions in the best interest of the State. He cautioned journalists against blackmail and black journalism, stressing that such conduct undermines societal harmony and will attract consequences.

Delivering the vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary, Akparawa James Edet, appreciated attendees and reminded journalists that “breaking news should not break the society.”