The Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency (AKSEPWMA) has linked environmental sustainability to the state’s capacity to attract investment, grow tourism and create opportunities for its people as Akwa Ibom marks its 39th anniversary.
The agency said maintaining a clean and sustainable environment should remain an integral part of the state’s development efforts, particularly as the administration of Governor Umo Eno intensifies its drive to position Akwa Ibom as a destination of choice for investors and tourists.
In an anniversary message to Governor Eno and the people of the state, AKSEPWMA said the occasion offered an opportunity to reflect on the state’s development journey and the gains recorded across critical sectors.
“Through the implementation of the Arise Agenda, your administration has continued to promote Akwa Ibom destination of choice for tourism and investment,” the agency stated.
It said the progress recorded in infrastructure, human capital development, education, agriculture, healthcare, security and environmental sustainability had continued to shape the Akwa Ibom of today.
The agency maintained that the benefits of the state’s development drive could be better sustained when environmental management remained a priority, particularly in the face of growing economic and commercial activities.
According to AKSEPWMA, the state’s emergence as an investment and tourism destination would create new opportunities and contribute to economic growth, provided the enabling environment was sustained.
It also highlighted peace, unity and inclusive development as important factors in creating conditions where individuals, communities and businesses could thrive.
“Your commitment to peace, unity, and inclusive development has further created an atmosphere where individuals, communities, and businesses can thrive,” the agency said.
AKSEPWMA described the 39th anniversary as more than a celebration of the state’s past, saying it should also serve as a moment to reflect on the responsibility of sustaining the progress already recorded.
The agency commended Governor Eno for his vision and commitment to the advancement of the state, expressing optimism that the various development initiatives under the ARISE Agenda would continue to open new opportunities for Akwa Ibom people.
It also prayed for continued wisdom, strength and guidance for the Governor as he leads the state, while wishing Akwa Ibom State continued growth and prosperity.
