CONNECTING THE DOTS: PASTOR UMO ENO’S VISION FOR A UNIFIED AND PROSPEROUS AKWA IBOM
Micheal Joseph Okon -Ituk Mbang, Uruan.
Pastor Umo Eno , the Governor of Akwa Ibom, made a bold commitment to build on the foundations laid by previous administrations during an inspection tour of the Ibom Tropicana Entertainment Centre, Udo Udoma Avenue, Uyo. He recognized that the state’s development journey is a continuous process, and that the key to unlocking progress lies in “connecting the dots” between past initiatives and future aspirations.
By resolving to put the past behind and focus on reviving and linking existing structures, Pastor Umo Eno demonstrated his dedication to creating a cohesive and sustainable development strategy. This approach has the potential to generate thousands of jobs for the people of Akwa Ibom, a testament to the Governor’s unwavering commitment to the state’s prosperity.
The Ibom Tropicana project is an important initiative that embodies Pastor Umo Eno’s vision for a unified and prosperous Akwa Ibom. By completing this project, the Governor aims to drive tourism and economic growth in the state, creating a thriving hub of activity that showcases Akwa Ibom’s potential.
“We have resolved to put the past behind us. We have structures on ground, what I’m doing now is to see all of the vision, what it was all about, how we can link them together and how we can revive it. This can give several thousands of jobs to Akwa Ibomites,” Pastor Umo Eno emphasized, highlighting his dedication to creating a cohesive and sustainable development strategy. In aligning with this vision, Pastor Umo Eno echoes the sentiments of the unknown author who once said, “The past is a shadow that follows you everywhere, but it doesn’t have to define your future. Forget the past and forge a new path forward.” By forgetting the past and focusing on the present, Pastor Umo Eno is determined to forge a new path forward for Akwa Ibom.
Pastor Umo Eno made these statements in the presence of top government officials, including the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; Commissioner for Special Duties, Engineer Bassey Okon; Commissioner for Lands, Captain Iniobong Ekong (rtd); and contractors for the project, among others.
Pastor Umo Eno’s pragmatic approach to development is a breath of fresh air in a landscape often marked by duplication and waste. By recognizing the potential in existing projects and choosing to build upon them, he maximizes resources and honors the investments made by previous administrations.
“We’ve been trying to create a theme park at the Udo Udoma Cenotaph, but seeing what we have here, why do I need to duplicate? Why do I have to start something new when we have something here we can build on?” Pastor Umo Eno explained, underscoring his commitment to maximizing resources and honoring the investments made by previous administrations.
As the chief steward of public resources, Pastor Umo Eno understands the importance of protecting the assets of Government, life, and property of the people. “This is Akwa Ibom money, and so my duty as Governor is to protect the assets of Government, life, and property of the people. Government has sunk in so much money here, and so I believe we can look at it,” he said, highlighting his responsibility to ensure that investments made by previous administrations are not squandered, but rather harnessed to drive growth and development in Akwa Ibom.
The Governor’s commitment to revitalizing existing infrastructure is a testament to his dedication to driving economic growth and tourism in the state. “For me, what is important, going forward, is how we can reclaim this place and make it functional. Behind us is an International Conference Centre. People come here for conferences and conventions.
I understand we were named Tourists State of the Year 2023, and when people see your efforts and recognize you for doing something, it means they expect more from you,” Pastor Umo Eno said, his vision for a unified and prosperous Akwa Ibom inspiring a sense of pride and hope for a brighter future.
With his eyes fixed on the future, Pastor Umo Eno is determined to leave a lasting legacy in Akwa Ibom. By “connecting the dots” and harnessing the potential of existing initiatives, he is creating a brighter future for the state and its citizens, and cementing his place as a true leader and visionary.
© Micheal Joseph Okon, Associate Chartered Economist ACE, Public Affairs Analyst.
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