Eno Commends EKet LGA for Landmark Projects

The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has commended the Eket Local Government for executing landmark projects that positively impact the socioeconomic well-being of people at the grassroots level.

The Governor made this remark on Saturday during the disbursement of the N50 million Eket ARISE Empowerment Initiative and small business grants to 500 beneficiaries, organised by Eket Local Government.

Represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Frank Archibong, Governor Eno expressed excitement over the achievements, describing them as in line with the ARISE Agenda of his administration.

The event also witnessed the commissioning of the 5,000-capacity Eket City Hall and the laying of the foundation stone for the ultra-modern Eket Legislative Complex.

According to Governor Eno, local governments in the state have no excuse for failing to execute projects that positively impact the socioeconomic well-being of people at the grassroots level. He emphasized that the Eket Local Government has set a laudable example, which other local governments should emulate.

“I am excited to be in Eket. This one is a landmark project. Whenever you see this picture anywhere, you will know that this is Eket. Speakers have said that this is the hall for the senatorial district. It is not just a hall for the senatorial district, the state can also use the hall,” Governor Eno said through his representative.

Commissioner Archibong added, “His Excellency the Governor, who has sent me to represent him at this event, will be in this hall very soon, and I am sure he will add to what has been done here. This three-pronged event of the disbursement of N50 million, the first of its kind in any local government in Nigeria; the foundation stone laying of the legislative chamber; and, of course, the commissioning of this magnificent edifice are the ones that will go down in the annals of the history of this land.”

Earlier, the Chairman of Eket Local Government, Mr. Akaniyene Tommey, said the projects were designed to complement the transformative ARISE Agenda of Governor Eno. He explained that the Eket City Hall is more than just a building; it is a symbol of unity and progress, with a seating capacity of 5,000, complemented by offices and a mini-conference hall.

“The facility is designed to serve as a premier hub for major events, conferences, and social gatherings. Beyond its cultural and economic significance, it will be a key driver of our internally generated revenue and create numerous employment opportunities,” Mr. Tommey said.

He also highlighted the significance of the Eket ARISE Empowerment Initiative SmallBiz Grant of N50 million to 500 entrepreneurs, describing it as a clear demonstration of the local government’s resolve to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) as the backbone of the local economy.

The event was attended by dignitaries, including traditional rulers, politicians, and entrepreneurs, who commended the Eket Local Government for its efforts in executing projects that positively impact the socioeconomic well-being of the people.

As the Akwa Ibom State Government continues to prioritize the execution of projects that positively impact the socioeconomic well-being of the people, it is expected that the state will witness significant development in the coming months. With the Eket model serving as a benchmark, other local governments in the state are expected to follow suit, ensuring that the ARISE Agenda is achieved.