Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has declared that his administration will no longer pay contractors without verified progress.

The governor made the assertion in Uyo on Wednesday. while speaking to Government House correspondents after an inspection of ongoing projects. He stressed that every payment must be tied to measurable work done on site.

According to him, the move is aimed at strengthening accountability and ensuring that public funds translate into tangible development outcomes across the state.

“I have payment vouchers waiting for me to sign, but I have to come and see and be sure that they have reached certain levels before we can make the next set of payments,” Eno said.

He explained that his administration is deliberately prioritizing due diligence in project execution, noting that contractors must meet agreed specifications and timelines before accessing government funds.

Eno maintained that the policy is part of broader efforts to guarantee value for money and eliminate delays and substandard delivery in public projects.

“Mine is to make sure that the work is going on, we get our money’s worth, ensure contractors are on site and that they are doing what they are supposed to do,” he stated.

The governor noted that beyond financial oversight, the government is also monitoring the quality of work and the welfare of workers at project sites to ensure compliance with standards.

“This inspection, for me, is to give me an on-the-spot assessment and monitor our timelines. Everywhere I went, I am satisfied with the pace and quality of work done,” he added.

He commended contractors for their commitment so far but warned that the state would continue to demand strict adherence to specifications.

“I believe that the contractors know that we will demand that they do the work according to our specification,” he said.

The governor emphasized that the policy would help instill discipline in project delivery and ensure that only qualified and committed contractors thrive in the state’s development space.

Projects visited during the exercise include the Aviation Village, Legislators’ and Executive Quarters at Dakkada Luxury Estate, the Equipment Leasing Company, and the CNG Bus Terminal.