By Senator Aniekan Bassey
Senator Representing the Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District
As Akwa Ibom State celebrates one of its revered sons, Mr. Udom Gabriel Emmanuel, the immediate past Governor of the state, at 58, it is an opportune moment for the people of the state to reflect on his tenure and the profound impact of his leadership on the state. Serving as Governor from 2015 to 2023, Mr. Emmanuel’s administration, the Dakkada Era, was marked by peace, security and a series of transformative initiatives and achievements that have significantly shaped the socio-economic landscape of the state.
It is heartwarming to recall that one of the most defining aspects of Mr. Emmanuel’s governance was his unwavering commitment to economic diversification and industrialization. Understanding the perils of over-reliance on oil revenues, he spearheaded initiatives to develop other sectors of the economy. The establishment of Ibom Airline (Ibom Air), the Kings Flour Mill, the St Gabriel Coconut Factory, the Jubilee Syringe Manufacturing Company and the Metering Solutions Manufacturing Services Limited were key milestones, positioning Akwa Ibom as an industrial hub. These initiatives not only generated employment for the people of the state but also boosted the state’s economic profile, attracting numerous investments and fostering a more resilient economic structure.
Flipping through the pages of his achievements in the area of infrastructure development, the Dakkada Era saw unprecedented growth. Udom Emmanuel’s strategic focus on road construction and rehabilitation improved connectivity across the state. The construction of the Dakkada Towers (21-Storey Building) and the International Worship Centre stand as monumental achievement, symbolizing the state’s ambitions for growth, modernization and solemnity. Again, the completion of the Ikot Ekpene-Uyo Road, Four-Point by Sheraton Hotel and the ongoing Ibom Deep Seaport project is set to revolutionize the state’s economic landscape by enhancing maritime trade and attracting global investors.
In the area of sports development and new cities, the transformation of Eket and Ikot Ekpene into vibrant new cities with remodeled stadia that have become national landmarks is a lasting legacy. These stadia serve as venues for the Nigeria Premier Leagues and various youth recreational activities, ensuring they remain prominent in national memories. Indeed, any discussion about national football tournaments in Nigeria must include notable mentions of the stadia in Ikot Ekpene, Uyo, and Eket townships. This significant achievement is thanks to Udom Emmanuel.
In the area of healthcare and education, Udom Emmanuel’s tenure also brought significant advancements. The upgrading of healthcare facilities and the subsequent push for the establishment of the Akwa Ibom State University Teaching Hospital marked substantial progress in the state’s healthcare sector. These efforts have improved access to quality medical services and created a foundation for training future medical professionals. The State University Teaching Hospital, when fully launched, will complement the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) and also assist all the General Hospitals across the state.
The Dakkada Era also made substantial investments in school infrastructure and ensured free and compulsory education at the basic level. These initiatives led to increased school enrollment and enhanced the quality of education, preparing a generation of well-educated citizens ready to contribute to the state’s development.
Recognizing the potential of agriculture in driving economic growth and food security, Udom Emmanuel launched various agricultural programmes and initiatives. The establishment of coconut plantation, cassava plantation and expansion of palm oil plantations underscored his commitment to harnessing the state’s agricultural potential. These projects have not only aimed at achieving food security but have also provided income-generating opportunities for farmers, contributing to poverty reduction.
As Akwa Ibom celebrates Udom Emmanuel at 58 and his legacy as Governor, which was one of vision, ambition, and tangible progress, his efforts in economic diversification, infrastructure development, healthcare, education, and agriculture laid a solid foundation for the Pastor Umo Eno’s administration and the future growth of Akwa Ibom.
As the state looks ahead, it remains poised to build on the advancements made during the Udom Emmanuel-led administration, ensuring that the seeds of progress sown under his leadership continue to flourish.
Happy Birthday, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, and thank you for your service to Akwa Ibom State.
