By Anietie Akpan
The people of Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency are in ecstasy as arrangements have been concluded to roll out the drums and celebrate Governor Umo Eno for his numerous programmes and projects which have had a far reaching impact in the constituency.
The Governor is scheduled to visit on Thursday, May 8, as part of the ongoing Town Square Meetings and Empowerment Series, which will be hosted at Itu Local Government Area council headquarters.
This marks the fifth edition since the commencement of the meeting.
Commenting on the visit, the political leader of Itu local government area and Commissioner for Housing, Dr. Henry Archibong said, “We are elated that our time has come. This visit is historic. It is the first time we are getting such an opportunity to directly present our developmental needs to a sitting governor.
“Our constituency has met, deliberated, and documented our needs. We are ready to present them to the Governor.
“I doubt if this kind of inclusive engagement has been done anywhere else in Nigeria.”
Dr. Archibong commended Governor Eno for his visionary leadership, noting that under his administration, Akwa Ibom State has transformed into a hub of peace, progress, and admiration across the country.
“When the righteous is on the throne, the people rejoice. There is peace in Akwa Ibom. Today, our state has become a destination of choice where everyone wants to host conferences and invest.
“Governor Umo Eno exemplifies simplicity, purposeful leadership, and dedication. He has done a lot already and I am confident he will do even more.”
Reflecting on the Governor’s emergence, Dr. Archibong recalled the endorsement by former Governor Udom Emmanuel, who had described Umo Eno as a leader capable of surpassing his own achievements.
“Initially, I was skeptical when former Governor Udom Emmanuel said he would hand over to someone a hundred times better than himself. At the time, we didn’t know much about Umo Eno. But today, not only Akwa Ibomites, but Nigerians and people across the globe, can attest that we have a Governor who is uniting the state through inclusive governance.”
Dr. Henry Archibong also addressed concerns surrounding the ARISE Empowerment Series, dismissing claims of nepotistic selection and limited audience participation, emphasizing that the initiative is people-centered and inclusive, contrary to some public narratives.
