Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has dismissed claims that his administration does not release funds for development projects, reiterating his commitment to using state funds for projects that will benefit the majority of the people.
The governor equally debunked claims suggesting that he personally possesses vast wealth, clarifying that the funds at his disposal belong to the state and are held in trust for the people of Akwa Ibom.
Speaking on Monday at the opening of the maiden State Executive Council (EXCO) Ministerial Briefing and End-of-Year Review in Uyo, Eno urged citizens not to fall for unfounded narratives about his administration’s financial disbursements.
“I would like to address some unfounded narratives concerning the disbursement of public funds. When people see me, they believe I have a lot of money. I don’t have personal funds; I hold money in trust for the people of Akwa Ibom State,” Eno stated.
He added, “I will always disburse funds to address the needs of the majority rather than personal interests or demands from individuals. I hold myself accountable to Akwa Ibom people and will not misuse state resources to play to the gallery.”
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Addressing stakeholders at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Uyo, the governor clarified that his campaign promises did not include building industries, emphasizing the need for a realistic approach to development based on current economic realities.
Governor Eno explained that the three-day EXCO briefing aimed to critically review the achievements of his administration over the past 18 months.
“We are here to reflect on the things we’ve done right and consolidate on them while identifying areas for improvement. With two and a half years left, I make bold to say that, from our assessment, we’ve done well,” he said.
He highlighted his administration’s focus on governance that prioritizes citizens’ welfare, noting: “In the last 18 months, we’ve concentrated on initiatives that help our people and avoided actions that do not create value.
“The funds we manage are held in trust for the Akwa Ibom people, and we ensure they are disbursed responsibly to address the needs of the majority.”
Governor Eno addressed criticisms about the lack of new industries in the state.
“I never promised during my campaigns to bring industries. Let me be corrected if I ever did. Industries are folding up nationwide because the environment is not conducive.
“To attract industries, we need critical infrastructure like electricity,” he explained.
He stressed the importance of laying a solid foundation for sustainable development through investments in real estate and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), which he believes will yield long-term benefits for the state.
“The funds we have should be invested in infrastructure that will generate returns and secure our future, especially when federal allocations from Abuja may no longer suffice,” Eno added.
The governor announced plans to hold bi-monthly town hall meetings in each federal constituency starting February 2025.
The initiative aims to engage citizens directly, understand their concerns, and incorporate them into the 2026 budget.
Responding to concerns about the delayed construction of the Ibom Deep Sea Port, Governor Eno reaffirmed his commitment to inherited infrastructure projects but admitted that the state lacks the resources to independently execute the port.
Chairman of the IDSP project, Mrs. Mfon Usoro, revealed that construction is expected to commence in the third quarter of 2027.
Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prince Enobong Uwah, commended the governor for delivering on his campaign promise of inclusive governance.
Traditional rulers, political leaders, and representatives from cultural and civil society groups also lauded Eno’s transparency and achievements.
Former Attorney General Uwemedimo Nwoko (SAN) praised the governor’s decision to engage stakeholders directly, stating:
“This forum where the government briefs stakeholders on achievements over the past year is creativity in transparency.”
The briefing also featured presentations from key members of the State Executive Council, including the Chairman of the Ibom Deep Seaport Implementation Committee, Mrs. Mfon Usoro; Commissioner for Works, Prof. Eno Ibanga; and Commissioner for Economic Development, Emen Bob, among others.
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