Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has announced plans by his administration to host a Corporate Summit in the state in 2025.
He noted that the event will serve as a platform for Akwa Ibom indigenes who are key players in the corporate world to contribute meaningfully to the development of the state.
The Governor disclosed this during the grand finale of a widows’ outreach program in Ndiya, Ikono Local Government Area, hosted by Ms. Emem Usoro, the Deputy Governor of Operations at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
Governor Eno highlighted that the state is blessed with prominent figures in the corporate sector and should leverage their wealth of experience to drive further development.
He commended Ms. Usoro for her initiative in organizing the outreach program, which he described as a thoughtful effort to give back to her community.
He noted that the initiative aligns with the ARISE Agenda, particularly in the areas of rural development and healthcare management.
The Governor outlined some of his administration’s ongoing life-transforming projects in Ikono, including the re-awarding of the contract for the 10.9km Ikot Ayan-Urua Naira-Ikot Nseyen-Nung Ukim Road, which features two 40-meter-span bridges. The project will connect communities like Nsai Use, Use-Ikot Amama, Ibiaku Ikot Esifa, Utong Mmong, and Nkwot Edem Edet, spanning Ibiono Ibom and Ikono Local Government Areas.
Additionally, he revealed that funds have been released for the renovation of Lutheran Primary School, Ikot Akpa Edok, Ndiya, which served as the venue for the widows’ outreach.
The Governor assured the people of more developmental projects in the area.
In a gesture of support for the outreach program, Governor Eno announced free enrollment in the State Health Insurance Scheme for 200 elderly citizens of Ikono.
He also encouraged other corporate players and affluent citizens of Akwa Ibom to emulate Ms. Usoro by giving back to their local communities and contributing to the state’s progress.
Earlier, the celebrant, Ms. Emem Usoro, expressed gratitude to the Governor for attending the event and celebrating her birthday with her. She also appreciated his impactful development initiatives in Ikono and the state at large, particularly the release of funds for the renovation of Lutheran Primary School.
Ms. Usoro urged her community to continue supporting the Governor to help him fully achieve the ARISE Agenda.
The event was attended by top government officials, including the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi; the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; the Head of Service, Elder Effiong Essien; Honorable Commissioners; and political stakeholders across party lines from Ikono, among others.
