NNYỊN IMI bọ enọ: A synopsis of Governor Umo Eno’s giant strides -2
By Emmanuel Ndon
Still within the short span, the One Project per Local Government initiative is another novelty in the political history of Nigeria. It reflects the buttom-up approach that most politicians only mouth about. Akwa Ibom bọ enọ
Here, the governor’s approach provides ample opportunity for indigenes to assess their uppermost need – something that can solve a very important problem in a community – and that project is undertaken by the government.
As of today, all 31 local government areas of the state have had their projects ranging from model schools , water stations, health centers etc undergoing construction
Beyond the lease of life it affords, particularly for rural dwellers, this approach clearly demonstrates participatory and inclusive governance – a key ingredient of democracy – where citizens are given ample chance to proffer solutions to their own problems.
Governor Umo Eno’s seriousness is also evident in the education sector. In his ARISE Agenda blueprint, “sound educational and health sector management” is encapsulated in the “S” acronym where security management comes first.
His first touch in this regard is the remodelling work at Christ the King Primary School, along Wellington Bassey Way in Uyo.
Before the intervention, this school, situated about 300 metres to the Government House, was an eyesore. Today, the school is only a model for the other ten ongoing at different locations in the ten federal constituencies of the state.
Still within the sector, there is a huge bursary award for Akwa Ibom students in various institutions of learning across the country, while a whopping N100 million has been procured as trust fund for the physically challenged students.
Two other outstanding programmes in the health sector deserve not only mentioning here but accolades to the governor. First is the ARISE initiative for the elderly where N50,000 worth medical checks and multivitamins are provided for 600 elderly citizens every month.
There’s also free medical outreaches across the three senatorial districts where serious health issues such as eye care, surgery and diagnostic services are conducted for targeted vulnerable patients.
Still x-raying the social service, at least 31 beneficiaries will become proud home owners in the first phase of the ARISE Compassionate Homes Initiative.
Again, the target here is the “poorest of the poor”. Under this scheme, government will build a minimum 100-two bedroom bungalows across the 31 council areas for these needy people.
Our last light beams on women and youth empowerment which falls under the “R” acronym and has Rural development leading the pack in the ARISE agenda. As can be observed, Governor Umo Eno’s main focus revolves around this area.
The aim is to revolutionise the status of our rural areas to make it more habitable, reduce the urban-rural dichotomy, and drive the growth of settlements and industry. Beyond this, there is also the idea of equipping youths to acquire the capacity necessary for industrial tasks and productivity.
In this direction, government has so far trained 400 entrepreneurs with starter packs through Ibom Leadership and Entrepreneurial Development Centre.
By all standards, every action suggests that the Umo Eno administration is a government by innovation. His plans are well laid out, thought through, and strictly implemented. It may yet not be a simple journey, but the Umo Eno administration is certain to end well because of its purposeful start.
Despite seeming challenges, the governor has remained focused and committed to fulfilling his bargain with Akwa Ibom people.
He has the support, everyone seems to appreciate the giant strides, and the manner with which he dares to touch every life in nearly every sector. Workers appear to be the most happy with a steady 13-month salary.
We can only expect better days from His Excellency. What a way to begin! Akwa Ibom State, NNYỊN IMI bọ enọ !
Emmanuel Ndon is the Founder / BoT Chairman, bọ enọ and Transition Secretary, Itu Local Government*
