Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has presented his manifesto for a second term, titled ARISE 2.0, during the inauguration of the All Progressives Congress (APC) State Campaign Council. This event marks a significant moment in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.
Eno emphasized a commitment to ambitious projects focused on economic growth, tourism, agriculture, and job creation, framing his agenda with the rallying theme, “We Are Well Able.” He expressed confidence in the state’s potential for higher development milestones aimed at improving the living conditions of its residents.
Reflecting on his administration’s achievements since taking office in May 2023, Eno indicated that the initial ARISE Agenda laid critical groundwork across various sectors, including infrastructure, education, healthcare, and rural development. The new ARISE 2.0 initiative aims to enhance these advancements, transitioning from an infrastructure-driven economy to one bolstered by investment and private-sector initiatives.
In his address, Eno pledged to create a favorable business environment to attract investment and support local entrepreneurs. He also highlighted tourism as an essential component for economic transformation, asserting that Akwa Ibom’s natural attractions and cultural heritage could position the state as a prominent destination for conferences and festivals.
Plans announced for the capital city, Uyo, include a remodel of the city center, featuring key infrastructure changes such as an iconic tower and flyovers. In agriculture, Eno is focused on moving from subsistence farming to commercial production with modern agricultural methods and expanded agro-processing facilities.
Further, Eno reiterated his commitment to public infrastructure improvements, including roads and electricity, alongside advancements in education and healthcare. He pointed out that youth empowerment will play a critical role, ensuring younger generations become active participants in the evolving economy.
Eno described the proposed Ibom Deep Seaport as vital to the state’s long-term economic strategy, thanking President Bola Tinubu for ongoing support related to the project’s certification processes. He foresees the seaport, along with the focus on tourism and agriculture, establishing Akwa Ibom as a central hub for maritime and commercial activities.
In his concluding remarks, Eno encouraged the newly formed campaign council to conduct peaceful, issue-driven campaigns, focusing on governance records and the welfare of the constituents instead of personal disputes. He called on APC members to mobilize grassroots support ahead of the elections, aiming to secure two million votes for President Tinubu and other APC candidates.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio praised Governor Eno’s leadership at the inauguration, reinforcing support for Eno’s approach to governance. Additionally, the campaign council’s Director-General, Ambassador Assam Assam, committed to a disciplined campaign strategy and shared details of the administration’s accomplishments, including major infrastructure projects and educational initiatives.
