From Isaac Job, Uyo
The President of the Republic of The Gambia, Adama Barrow, and the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno were among distinguished African leaders honoured at the 19th Security Watch Africa Conference and Awards held at Gambian capital in Banul.
A statement signed by Akwa Ibom state commissioner of Information Hon Aniekan Umanah and made available to Journalists in Uyo stated that the award was given to two leaders in recognition of their contributions to governance, security and sustainable development.
According to the Commissioner , Eno was represented at the event by his Deputy, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, who received the prestigious African Leader award in People-Centric Governance .
Umanah disclosed that Eno In his keynote address commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his administration’s efforts in strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture through collaboration with the Armed Forces and other security agencies.
He explained that thr governor called for greater regional and continental cooperation to tackle emerging security challenges and promote peace, stability and prosperity across Africa adding that security, inclusive leadership and people-centred governance remain essential pillars for sustainable economic growth.
He said Eno while delivering the address at Sir Dawda Jawara International Conference Centre, Banjul, before African leaders, diplomats, defence chiefs, security experts, policymakers and development partners, Pastor maintained that true measure of governance lies in its ability to improve the lives and welfare of citizens.
He said Eno dedicated the award to Akwa Ibom people and described it as recognition of the collective commitment of government, security agencies and citizens towards building a peaceful, secure and prosperous society.
“Governance must go beyond political leadership to improving the material conditions of the people. Meaningful development can only thrive where lives and property are protected, and the rule of law is upheld”
He said Eno acknowledged Nigeria’s security challenges but noted that they were not peculiar to the country and could be overcome through collaboration, innovation and sustained commitment among nations.
” Transnational threats require shared intelligence, coordinated responses and deeper partnerships among governments, security institutions and communities across Africa.
” Nigeria remains one of Africa’s most attractive investment destinations due to its large market, youthful and technology-driven population, abundant natural resources and democratic stability”.
Umanah disclosed that Eno used the conference to showcase achievements of his administration under the ARISE Agenda
highlighting key interventions in agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare, education, tourism, aviation and social welfare.
He said Eno pointed out his administration’s achievements to include construction of over 1,346 kilometres of roads and bridges, establishment of Ibom Model Farm, Tree Crop Revolution, commissioning of 350-bed Ibom International Hospital, enrollment of more than 300,000 residents into the State Health Insurance Scheme and construction of over 455 solar-powered Compassionate Homes for vulnerable citizens.
” Governor Eno also highlighted strategic projects aimed at positioning Akwa Ibom as a leading investment and tourism destination, including the ARISE Palm Resort, International Convention Centre, remodelling of Ibom International Hotel, expansion of Ibom Air’s regional operations and ongoing efforts towards the realisation of the Ibom Deep Seaport.
“From land through our extensive road network, to air through Ibom Air, and to sea through the Ibom Deep Seaport, Akwa Ibom is ready to partner with the world”
Umanah further disclosed that Eno told African leaders that his administration had strengthened internal security through the creation of a dedicated Ministry of Internal Security and Waterways, headed by a retired military officer and deepened collaboration with conventional security agencies through intelligence gathering, technology deployment and community participation.
He said Eno identified establishment of the Ibom Community Watch, the integration of 2,272 gazette Village Youth Presidents into the state security architecture and the construction of a modern Security Command and Control Centre as key initiatives that have reinforced Akwa Ibom’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s safest and most peaceful states.
“The Governor emphasised that security is a collective responsibility, urging citizens to provide credible and timely information to security agencies”.
Umanah said the International Coordinator of Security Watch Africa, Patrick Agbambu, commended Eno for demonstrating a conscientious and people-driven leadership style, noting that his commitment to citizen-focused governance informed the decision to honour him with the African Leader in People-Centric Governance Award.
“The conference was organised to harness diverse thoughts, expertise and ideas from across the continent towards developing practical solutions for improving security and strengthening cooperation among African nations.
“Other award recipients at the event included Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa; the Gambian Police Force; the Nigeria Police Force; the South African Defence Force; the Kenya Navy; the Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command; CP Baba Mohammed Azare; and the Chief Security Officer to Governor Umo Eno, CSP Besta Sini”.
(The Sun)