Gov Eno Flags Off Ikot Ekpene International Market, Says 39 Projects have silenced naysayers

Gov Eno Flags Off Ikot Ekpene International Market, Says 39 Projects have silenced naysayers

Governor Umo Eno has performed the ceremonial flag-off exercise for the construction of the Ikot Ekpene International Market, describing the project as a strategic investment that will expand economic opportunities, create jobs and promote shared prosperity in Akwa Ibom State.

Speaking at the ceremony in Ikot Ekpene, Governor Eno said the market was designed to go beyond buying and selling, describing it as a commercial hub that would promote the exchange of ideas, stimulate economic growth and create opportunities for traders and young people.

“We’re not just flagging off a market, we’re laying foundation for opportunities. This market will not only be a place where goods are bought and sold, but a place for shared ideas and prosperity,” he said.

The Governor described the exercise as the final activity marking the state’s 39th anniversary, saying his administration had delivered 39 projects to commemorate the state’s 39 years of existence.

He said the inauguration events afforded him opportunities to render account on the development trajectory to even the doubting Thomases.

“Those who were asking what we have done in office, no longer have what to use and attack us”.

Despite the volume of projects inaugurated in the last one month, the Governor however said there will be a later date for inauguration of nine of the projects that were reserved for the President’s inauguration.

He further disclosed that additional projects would be commissioned between December and May 29, 2027.

Gov Eno, who said his administration had been in office for three and a half years, urged the people to assess its performance based on its record of strategy, accountability, commitment and character.

The Governor also highlighted interventions by his administration in healthcare and workers’ welfare, disclosing that an international hospital with more than 40 clinics was under development.

He assured workers that he was upbeat in offsetting the arrears of gratuity payments with over 100bn naira so far paid, adding that before 2027 the remaining 11bn naira would have been paid.

According to him, the impact of the administration’s programmes had been felt across the 31 local government areas, particularly among market women, youths and the elderly.

He said the administration remained committed to creating opportunities that would enable young people to compete favourably in national and international markets.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Capt. Iniobong Ekong, flanked by the commissioners for Works, Prof Eno Ibanga and that of Finance and Special Duties, Mr Emem Bob, described the market as a deliberate investment in trade, tourism and economic development.

Ekong disclosed that the facility would comprise 1,200 shops, two warehouses, a restaurant, cooling facilities and a police station.

He added that the market would have asphalt and concrete roads and serve as a major commercial destination for traders from Akwa Ibom, neighbouring states, and neighbouring border countries, while generating employment opportunities and revenue for the state.

Also speaking, Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, flanked by stakeholders from the federal constituency, recalled that the idea of the market was conceived by the people of Ikot Ekpene in 2010 but remained unrealised under the advent of the Governor Eno administration.

He commended Governor Eno for actualising the project, particularly against the backdrop of a legal dispute that, according to him, lasted about 10 years.

The Chairman of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, Hon. Aniefiok Nkom, also expressed appreciation to the Governor for his support to the community and assured him of the people’s continued support.

Goodwill message was also received from the Paramount Ruler of Ikot Ekpene, Akuku Okon Udo Ukut, who prayed for God’s sustained protection on the Governor and his team.

Dorathy Ime
Govt House Media Unit