Akwa Ibom governor pledges increased investment in tourism, agriculture and job creation, announces plans to remodel Uyo city centre
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has unveiled ARISE 2.0, his development blueprint for a proposed second term from 2027 to 2031, promising increased investment in infrastructure, tourism, agriculture, job creation and economic growth.
Eno presented the blueprint on Friday during the inauguration of the All Progressives Congress (APC) State Campaign Council ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He said the new agenda would build on the achievements of his administration since May 2023, shifting the state from an infrastructure-driven economy towards one anchored on investment, enterprise and private-sector participation.
The governor announced plans to remodel Uyo city centre with an iconic tower, flyover and other facilities. He also promised to expand commercial agriculture, support entrepreneurs, improve public infrastructure and create more opportunities for young people.
On tourism, Eno said the state would leverage its natural attractions, cultural heritage and hospitality industry to attract conferences, entertainment, sports and holidaymakers.
He also identified the proposed Ibom Deep Seaport as a key part of his economic vision, saying the project would position Akwa Ibom as a maritime, logistics and industrial hub. He thanked President Bola Tinubu for supporting its certification and approval processes.
Eno urged the campaign council to conduct peaceful, issue-based campaigns and intensify grassroots mobilisation. He also challenged APC members to secure at least two million votes for Tinubu in 2027.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended the governor’s leadership, describing him as an “Uncommon Transformer 2.0”, and urged residents to support continuity and good governance.
Earlier, Campaign Council Director-General, Ambassador Assam Assam, SAN, cited the administration’s achievements, including over 1,500 kilometres of ongoing and completed road projects, the recruitment of more than 3,000 teachers, free education, healthcare interventions and youth empowerment programmes.