NEWS
Archibong Hails Gov Eno for Strengthening Traditional Institution, Says ARISE Agenda is Transforming the State
Archibong Hails Gov Eno for Strengthening Traditional Institution, Says ARISE Agenda is Transforming the State
By Jerry Edoho
Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mkpisong Frank Archibong, has commended Governor Umo Eno for strengthening the traditional institution and driving development across the state’s 31 local government areas.
The Commissioner stated this on Wednesday at the presentation of Certificates of Recognition to newly selected Clan Heads, held as part of activities marking Akwa Ibom’s 39th anniversary, describing it as a season of gratitude, he emphasized that the Eno administration has strengthened the traditional institution through increased stipends for royal fathers, security support, health assistance, capacity-building programmes, mobility support and greater involvement of traditional rulers in community security and governance.
The Commissioner particularly praised Governor Eno’s commitment to peace and unity, stressing that the stability enjoyed across the state remained a major foundation for development. He commended the President-General of the Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM Ntenyin (Dr.) Solomon Etuk, CFR, and its Chairman, HRM Akuku Saviour Sylvester Udofia, for their coordination of the traditional institution, while also acknowledging the contributions of Paramount Rulers, Clan Heads, Village Heads and Family Heads. He noted that the administration had witnessed a significant number of coronations of Paramount Rulers and Clan Heads.
”Your Excellency, we are grateful to God for giving you to us at this time. You have shown that governance is not in Uyo alone, but in the 31 local Government Areas. As your Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, I can testify that there is no Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom State without a completed or on-going project,” he stated.
Archibong declared that the Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, alongside the royal fathers, would continue to support the Governor and mobilise for the success of his re-election bid.
At the ceremony, eight newly selected Clan Heads were presented with certificate of recognition by the state Governor, namely Obong Eshiet Charles Eno of Eket Offiong Clan; Akuku Akpan Aniekan U. Akpakpan of Ikpe Annang Clan; Etebom Bassey Okon B. Okoridem of Ndiya Clan; Etebom Ini Moses Akabom of Ito Clan; Etebom Mbang F. Mbang of Southern Afaha Clan; Offong Joseph Okon Esuk of Odu Clan; Offong (Sen.) Nelson Asuquo Effiong of Afaha Okpo Clan; and Offong Okon Etim Atanang of Idua Clan.
Also speaking, the Oku Ibom Ibibio and President-General of the Supreme Council of Akwa Ibom State Traditional Rulers, Ntenyin Solomon Etuk, commended Governor Umo Eno’s commitment to life touching projects, peace and the construction of the Senior citizens centre for the elderly people, while the Chairman of the Council and Paramount Ruler of Abak, Akuku Saviour Sylvester Udofia, lauded his support for the traditional institution and pledged the continued support and prayers of the royal fathers for the success of his administration and mandate renewal for another term of four years.
In his remarks, Governor Umo Eno reiterated his commitment to building a greater Akwa Ibom, appreciating the Royal Fathers for their roles in promoting peace and unity, while calling for an upward review of the salaries and welfare packages of Village Heads .
He also approved the construction of two additional Senior Citizens Centres in Ikot Ekpene and Eket senatorial district, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to inclusive development and well-being of elderly citizens.
On the political process, the Governor urged aspirants and supporters to embrace peaceful campaigns, shun actions capable of heating up the polity, and advised citizens to make informed choices based on the character, track record and qualities of those seeking elective offices.
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