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Governor Umo Eno has declared that Akwa Ibom does not share a maritime boundary with Cross River and warned that any attempt to alter the state’s territorial limits would violate an ICJ ruling and escalate into an international matter. Speaking at the second anniversary of the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA), the pet project of his late wife, Pastor Patience Umo Eno, the governor said the 76 contested oil wells belong to Akwa Ibom and cannot be challenged by any committee or government agency. In his words “We have two Supreme Court judgments and there is no reason whatsoever… No committee can overturn a Supreme Court judgment. No agency of government can overturn a Supreme Court judgment”. Governor Eno encouraged the people of the state to remain calm, expressing confidence that President Bola Tinubu will uphold the rule of law. He assured that, as a member of the ruling party, Akwa Ibom and its resources will continue to be defended. “We will go where they go. We will meet who they meet. We will talk where they talk. We will sit where they sit, and we will defend what belongs to us,” he added. While celebrating GIFA, Governor Eno commended the initiative’s progress, noting that it has stayed true to its founding vision and delivered measurable impact across its key focus areas. He particularly applauded his daughter and Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Helen Obareki, for keeping her late mother’s vision alive. Earlier, Lady Helen Obareki highlighted how GIFA has transformed the lives of over 53,000 women, children, and vulnerable families in Akwa Ibom State. “In those crucial moments, her care became hope, and that hope became life for those women and children. Those moments of modest caregiving back in our home became the seed that gave birth to the Golden Initiative For All,” she said. She detailed the initiative’s achievements across eight thematic areas: maternal and child healthcare, literacy and learning, environmental health, women empowerment, disease prevention, elderly care, disability support, and Gender-Based Violence prevention. “To put it briefly, 9,776 mothers and children have benefited from maternal and child healthcare; 19,587 adults and pupils from literacy programs; 13 Water of Life boreholes across 13 LGAs; 5,064 women empowered; 4,900 rural women and children reached through medical outreach; 10,800 senior citizens supported; 160 persons with disabilities assisted; and 1,020 survivors of Gender-Based Violence rehabilitated,” she said. Looking forward, Lady Helen announced new programs to expand GIFA’s reach, including a year-round Tech-Empowerment Accelerator to equip 500 women annually with market-ready digital skills. She also assured that the Water of Life project will cover all 31 Local Government Areas, while literacy and “Back to School” initiatives will continue to support children and adults in public schools.

Akwa Ibom State Government is facing renewed scrutiny over the utilisation of over ₦2.53 trillion in the past 36 months, following a statement by civil society group PDP Advocates for Peace and Justice (PAPA-J). The group in a statement signed by its Chairman, Dr Tom FredFish, made available to newsmen in Uyo Friday said the government’s response to a Premium Times investigative report was evasive and failed to provide clear evidence of completed projects. PAPA-J questioned the state’s list of projects, saying many remain at preliminary stages or only exist as announcements. “Groundbreaking is not completion. Announcement is not delivery. Animation is not infrastructure,” the group said. It added that citizens need verifiable evidence of roads, hospitals, industrial and tourism investments cited by the government. The group also challenged the claim that over 1,200 kilometres of roads have been completed or are ongoing, demanding details on locations, quality, and cost. “No serious observer can point to any transformational or legacy project that reflects the magnitude of such colossal revenue,” PAPA-J said. Recall that the Akwa Ibom Commissioner for Information, Aniekan

The Akwa Ibom State Government has condemned the vandalism of a classroom block at a primary school in Ikot Mbonde, Itu Local Government Area, describing the act as a direct attack on public investment in education and calling for urgent community vigilance to safeguard school infrastructure. The Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ubong Umoh, who spoke during an on-the-spot assessment of the affected school, said the government views the incident as deliberate sabotage capable of undermining ongoing reforms in the education sector. Umoh, accompanied by the Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Rt. Hon. (Dr) Anietie Etuk, visited the school following a viral video showing damaged ceilings and broken desks within the facility. According to the Commissioner, preliminary findings revealed that the destruction was not accidental but carried out by individuals within the community. “Our findings clearly indicate that this is a case of vandalism by unscrupulous elements. School property meant for the benefit of our children has been deliberately destroyed,” Umoh said. He further disclosed that desks and wooden windows were broken and in some cases converted to firewood, while metal doors and burglary proofs were removed and allegedly sold to scrap dealers. The Commissioner added that some of the damage to ceiling boards resulted from the misuse of classrooms as recreational spaces, particularly football fields, after school hours. Umoh described the development as troubling, noting that similar incidents of vandalism have been recorded in other public primary schools across the state, with Government Primary School, Aka 1 in Obio Imo also affected. “This trend is unacceptable. We cannot continue to invest heavily in infrastructure only for such investments to be destroyed by the same communities meant to benefit from them,” he said. He stressed the need for stronger community participation in protecting public assets, urging residents, parents and local leaders to take ownership of schools within their areas. “Education is a collective responsibility. Protecting our schools is protecting our future,” the Commissioner stated. Reaffirming government’s commitment to improving learning conditions, Umoh disclosed that 275 school blocks were rehabilitated across the state in the past year. He added that over 1,000 schools have already been earmarked for comprehensive rehabilitation in the current fiscal year as part of efforts to upgrade education infrastructure. The Commissioner also highlighted ongoing projects including the construction of model primary schools across the 31 local government areas, as well as special intervention projects under the Free and Compulsory Education Programme, all aimed at ensuring access to quality and conducive learning environments.

Another PDP state Governor defects to APC On Thursday evening, state governors and other influential political figures gathered in Akwa Ibom State in anticipation of Governor Umo Eno’s expected switch from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) today, Friday, June 6, 2025. Among those who made their way to the Akwa Ibom Government House in Uyo were His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, the Governor of Cross River State, and Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, who also holds the position of Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum. Additional prominent APC leaders are anticipated to arrive in large numbers this morning to welcome the governor into the ruling party. This situation has created a sense of unease within Akwa Ibom’s political landscape, as many PDP stakeholders have chosen to remain notably silent. Sources affiliated with the party suggest that the leadership has been caught off guard by the rapidity and decisiveness of the defection. Key figures within the PDP, including party elders, former officeholders, and political appointees, have refrained from making public statements, indicating potential internal discontent and subdued frustration. Governor Eno’s defection occurs amidst rising tensions within his political circle. Reports suggest that numerous aides—including Special Assistants (SAs), Senior Special Assistants (SSAs), and Personal Assistants (PAs)—are unlikely to join him in the transition to the APC. This shift is believed to have disrupted the PDP’s preparations for the 2027 elections and could complicate longstanding zoning and power-sharing agreements within the state. Eno’s departure will further weaken the PDP’s influence on a national scale, limiting its control to just ten states: Adamawa, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Enugu, Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Rivers, Taraba, and Zamfara.

The Akwa Ibom State Government is integrating Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) staff into the main state payroll to grant them the same benefits as other public servants, confirmed Head of Service Elder Effiong Essien in Uyo on Thursday. Governor Umo Eno’s administration has released ₦60 billion toward a ₦90 billion backlog in gratuities, promotions, and entitlements, aiming to clear retiree payments promptly upon retirement. Recent pension increases include ₦20,000 for retirees from 2000, ₦15,000 for 2011 cohorts, and ₦500,000 for former permanent secretaries. Since February 2025, the new ₦80,000 minimum wage has applied retroactively to November 2024 after verifying 53,000 of 55,000 civil servants. The state offsets 7.5 percent pension contributions with a ₦500 million monthly release, reimbursing 15 Local Education Authorities so far.   To improve living conditions, the governor has donated 150 two‑bedroom bungalows to junior staff. A digital pensioner‑verification portal also streamlined confirmations—even overseas. Addressing healthcare brain drain, Akwa Ibom is training specialist doctors under service bonds and recruiting 600 medical personnel plus 100 safety officers for its new Occupational Safety Department.

Youth leaders, disaster specialists, and government agencies are calling for a robust, proactive emergency-response strategy for Akwa Ibom State. They spoke at a one‑day, youth‑led dialogue on disaster risk management—hosted by the Clement Isong Foundation with support from ActionAid Nigeria in Uyo. Participants—including NEMA, the Civil Defence Corps, the Fire Service, and civil‑society groups—noted the state’s recurring floods, oil spills, fires, and disease outbreaks, and decried its reactive, underfunded response system. “We can’t keep waiting for disasters to strike,” said Utibe Ekanem of the SPA II project. “Akwa Ibom needs an inclusive framework that empowers local communities—especially youth and women.” Drawing on NEMA’s national framework, attendees formed a Technical Working Committee to craft a state‑specific plan. Young people from Oron and Ibeno shared how they’ve led sanitation drives and flood‑and‑oil‑spill responses without official backing. Key gaps identified included the absence of early‑warning systems, weak community coordination, and infrequent drills. Recommendations: Create state‑ and local‑level emergency teams Deploy rapid needs‑assessment tools Integrate disaster education in schools Run regular simulation exercises Launch awareness campaigns via schools, town halls, and places of worship. The Clement Isong Foundation and ActionAid Nigeria pledged ongoing support for youth‑driven preparedness efforts and thanked all stakeholders for their contributions.

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has directed the leadership of the Muslim community in the state to nominate seven members, including two indigenes, for appointment to the State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board.   The move, according to the Governor, is part of his administration’s commitment to inclusivity and equitable representation of all religious groups in governance.   Governor Eno gave the directive while hosting the Muslim faithful to an Iftar (breaking of fast) at the Hilltop Mansion, Uyo.   He emphasized his administration’s respect for religious diversity and urged the community to continue fostering peace and harmonious coexistence within the state.   “I want you to put forward seven names, including two Akwa Ibom indigenes, to serve on the Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board. This government is for everyone, regardless of tribe, religion, or background, and I remain committed to ensuring inclusivity in governance,” he stated.   He commended the Muslim community for its efforts in maintaining peace, particularly in resolving conflicts between herders and farmers, and stressed the need for continued collaboration in promoting unity.   “I sincerely appreciate your sense of responsibility and the role you play in helping us resolve disputes. We must continue to ensure that everyone’s business and livelihood thrive without disrupting the peace of others,” Governor Eno added.   The Governor further reflected on his longstanding relationship with the Muslim community, which predates his administration, noting that he grew up in a diverse environment where religious and ethnic differences did not define relationships.   “I was raised in the barracks, where we all lived as one, regardless of tribe or religion. Many of my closest friends and business associates are Muslims, particularly from the North. What matters to me is the value you bring, not where you come from,” he said.   He also expressed gratitude to the community for their unwavering support, including during the 2023 governorship election, and reaffirmed his commitment to their welfare.   Earlier, the Chairman of the League of Imams in Akwa Ibom State, Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq, expressed appreciation to Governor Eno for identifying with the Muslim faithful during Ramadan, describing the gesture as a sign of sincerity, goodwill, and commitment to their well-being. He invoked Allah’s blessings upon the Governor and his administration.

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Uyo (UNIUYO), Professor Nyaudoh Ndaeyo, will deliver the university’s 111th Inaugural Lecture on March 27, 2025, focusing on Nigeria’s food insecurity despite abundant agricultural resources.   Themed “Farming Systems in Nigeria: Wallowing in Food Insecurity Amid Abundance,” the lecture will be held at the TETFund Auditorium, Main Campus, Uyo, and chaired by Professor Leo Daniel, Vice Chancellor of FUTIA. Speaking to journalists, Professor Peter Esuh, Chairman of the Inaugural Lecture Planning Committee, highlighted that the event will convene scholars, policymakers, and agribusiness stakeholders to discuss farming inefficiencies, government policies, and solutions for sustainable food production. Describing Professor Ndaeyo as a leading expert in farming systems and crop science, Esuh emphasized that the lecture will explore whether Nigeria’s food crisis stems from outdated practices, policy failures, or socio-economic challenges. It will also propose research-driven solutions to enhance agricultural productivity and food security. The university invites the government, private sector, and the public to participate in this critical discussion on transforming Nigeria’s agriculture.

The Federal Government has commenced the construction of a 10 million standard cubic feet per day (MMSCF/D) Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Mother Station by Nsik Oil and Gas Limited at Uquo Isi Edoho, Esit Eket, Akwa Ibom State.   Performing the groundbreaking on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Mr. Ekperikpe Ekpo, described the project as a game-changer aligned with the Renewed Hope Initiative, aimed at providing cleaner and more affordable energy. Ekpo commended Nsik Oil and Gas for its bold investment, emphasizing its role in reducing petrol dependence, boosting local businesses, and creating jobs. He urged entrepreneurs and the host community to support the initiative, assuring that government investment in the gas sector would continue.   Nsik Oil and Gas CEO, Mr. Nsikan Johnny, expressed gratitude to all stakeholders, stating that the project would enhance energy security, empower small businesses, and stimulate economic growth in Akwa Ibom and beyond. Project Consultant, Mr. Mkposong Asuquo, highlighted the state-of-the-art infrastructure of the facility, designed to supply CNG to multiple states while driving employment and industrial development.   Host community leaders pledged support but urged the company to prioritize local employment.

Governor Umo of Akwa Ibom State says he will September 2025 inaugurate the Oron Marine Jetty, a major aquatic commercial hub integrating a ferry terminal and leisure resort.   Governor Eno who announced the inauguration date at the flag-off of the project in Oron on Thursday said the intent was to revitalizing maritime trade and transportation in the coastal region.   The project, according to Governor Eno is expected to create employment opportunities and ease movement across waterways, with over 1000 locals already benefiting from daily jobs.   In his words “You can rest assured that we will fulfill our commitment to the contractor. We are looking forward to returning here between August and September for the commissioning. I’d love to take the ferry to Calabar and back on that day,”   He noted that while the state lacks the financial capacity to construct railways without federal government support, it is maximizing its waterways by introducing passenger ferries. “We will construct our waterways, put ferries on them, and that will be our pride and our joy,” he assured. The Governor commended Rear Admiral Etop Ebe, Superintendent of the Naval Shipyard in Port Harcourt, for overseeing the production of the state’s first passenger cruise ferry.   He also revealed that the contract for a second ferry would soon be awarded. As part of the project’s sustainability plan, 15 engineers will undergo specialized training to handle maintenance.   The Commissioner for Works, Prof. Eno Ibanga, provided an overview of the infrastructure, which will include steel shore protection, four jetties, a ferry terminal, cold storage and warehouses, a 5,500-square-meter car park for at least 200 vehicles, internal road networks, and a recreational center designed to attract tourists. He assured that the project was on course for timely completion.   Also speaking, Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, who hails from Oron, applauded Governor Eno’s commitment to the area, recalling that Oron was once an economic nerve center in Nigeria. “This project will restore our past glory,” she said.   In his remarks, project contractor and Managing Director of JMK Construction, Mr. Faysal Harb, assured that the work would be completed within six months, thanking the Governor for his confidence in the company.