Since 2012, the Akwa Ibom State Government has disbursed more than N82 billion of the N111 billion in inherited gratuities and other benefits owed to retired state officials.
In his Easter broadcast on Sunday, state governor Umo Eno made this announcement, stating that his administration is still dedicated to fulfilling all gratuity commitments before the conclusion of his first term, as he had said during his campaign.
“Out of the N111 billion we inherited as gratuities and other emoluments of our retirees since 2012, we have paid over N82 billion so far, and we are still on track to clear the backlog, hopefully before the conclusion of our first term in office.
“We made a campaign pledge, and I’m pleased to say that we are keeping that pledge,” Eno stated.
The governor also took the opportunity to showcase his ARISE Agenda scorecard, revealing that since taking office in 2023, his administration has built 1,300 kilometers of roads, including projects that were inherited and others that he started and finished.
He went on to say that at the most recent Executive Council meeting, an additional 167 kilometers of road were approved, highlighting the fact that every local government area has been included in the projects, which include feeder roads, general hospitals, model primary schools, model primary healthcare facilities, and road construction.
Since taking office in 2023, we have built more over 1,300 kilometers of roads, some of which were inherited and others of which our administration initiated and finished.
We approved an extra 167 kilometers of roads throughout the state at our most recent EXCO meeting. During the festivities honoring our third year in office, some of the continuing roadways will be put into service,” he stated.
He declared, “Today, we boldly state emphatically that we have touched every local government area in this state with roads, feeder roads, general hospitals like the one in Ukanafun, model primary healthcare centers, model primary schools, and others currently under construction.”
Inspired by the Easter theme of hope, Eno acknowledged difficulties but reassured everyone that they will be overcome.
“Let me reassure you, my dear people, that we will rise together and conquer our obstacles, no matter what we may be facing.
In the same way that Christ’s resurrection provided salvation, hope, and redemption, we shall keep working hard to enhance the welfare and well-being of our people.
He declared, “We will build a future characterized by hope and faith in the elevating ideals of a Christ-centered government we had promised you.”
