GOVERNOR UMO ENO’S VISION… fostering unity and economic growth

GOVERNOR UMO ENO’S VISION… fostering unity and economic growth

A memory from my youth, one of profound disappointment, resurfaced recently. As a 13-year-old, I was denied the opportunity to write a crucial examination in Sokoto State because I was a “non-indigene.” The pain of that moment, of being excluded solely based on my origin, has never truly left me. It was a harsh introduction to a political reality that often plagues our nation, the division and marginalization that comes with a sense of “us versus them.”

This painful memory was brought to the forefront by the compassionate actions of Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno.

The recent announcement of an ₦800 million grant to support non-indigenes doing business in Akwa Ibom State was not just a political move; it was a deeply empathetic gesture that spoke directly to the child who once wept uncontrollably under that neem tree. This is unprecedented in Nigerian politics. It demonstrates a profound understanding that compassion is not mere pity, but a proactive display of empathy and a commitment to action.

Without doubt, Governor Eno’s leadership recognizes that true economic growth is not possible if any segment of the population is left behind. As an entrenched entrepreneur and an accomplished cosmopolitan businessman, he understands that the non-indigene community is an integral part of Akwa Ibom’s socio-economic fabric. Their businesses contribute significantly to the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) especially the underground GDP and Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

Therefore, by providing this support, Governor Eno is not just giving a handout; he is intentionally making a strategic investment in the state’s economic prosperity. He is ensuring that the empowerment initiatives sweeping across Akwa Ibom are inclusive, recognizing that every productive member of society deserves a chance to thrive.

Governor Eno’s approach is a stark contrast to the myopic policies of the past like the Sokoto one I mentioned earlier. Imagine the economic landscape of Nigeria if, decades ago, leaders in every State in Nigeria had the foresight to include non-indigenes in their development plans. How much more vibrant would their economy have been? It goes without saying that Governor Eno’s policy is a blueprint for national unity and economic dynamism. By fostering an environment where origin is not a barrier to opportunity, he is attracting talent, encouraging investment, and stimulating innovation.

This isn’t about politics as usual; it’s about building a sustainable future, opening up the frontiers of Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria at large to a new found socio-economic cum political revolution and reorientation.

Many agree that the Governor’s focus is more on the next generation than the next election. His compassionate governance style, which transcends even state boundaries, as seen with the ARISE compassionate home built in Ugep, Cross River State is a testament to his belief in a unified Nigeria. He is pristinely demonstrating that our nation’s homogeneity amidst the pleasant diversity can be achieved not through force, but through shared prosperity and mutual respect.

Akwa Ibom State is no longer a close kept secret, but a beacon of hope, showing the rest of the nation that when we embrace every facet of our society, we unlock an unparalleled potential for growth and development.

This is a lesson many leaders could learn from, and one that gives hope to those of us who have long yearned for a more inclusive and compassionate Nigeria.

Indeed the nation is watching with keen interest and unabated eyelids, in a glorious unison, a plethora of meritorious awards trailing his habitations.

Indeed Governor Eno is not just about competence, capacity and compassion but is a harbinger of peace, prosperity and progress.

Patrick Edeke ANIPR writes from Akai-Atti Udesi in Mbo LGA of A’Ibom State