Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Akwa Ibom State government has approved key initiatives aimed at accelerating energy transition, power sector reforms, aviation development and economic growth, with directives issued for the rapid implementation of critical infrastructure projects across the state.
The decisions were reached at the latest Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Umo Eno, where members reviewed ongoing projects and approved new measures designed to strengthen governance and improve service delivery.
A major highlight of the meeting was the ratification of matters relating to the deployment of Compressed Natural Gas, CNG, transportation infrastructure, including the delivery of CNG buses already at the Lagos Seaport and the construction of a passenger terminal at the state’s CNG Mega Station located at Ikot Akpan/Obio Offot in Uyo.
The council also approved measures relating to the recapitalization of Anchor Insurance Limited as part of efforts to strengthen state-owned institutions and improve their operational capacity.
In a move aimed at fast-tracking the state’s aviation ambitions, EXCO directed the newly established Ministry of Aviation and Airport Development to submit a comprehensive operational framework covering project milestones, budget proposals, management structure, revenue projections, commercial opportunities and long-term sustainability plans.
The council further considered take-off requirements for the Akwa Ibom State Electricity Regulatory Commission and ordered the immediate provision of essential facilities needed for its operations.
According to the resolutions, the new commission is expected to develop a detailed work plan and budget aimed at achieving efficient and reliable electricity supply within an 18-month target period.
The move aligns with ongoing electricity sector decentralisation efforts following the Electricity Act, which empowers states to establish and regulate their own electricity markets.
EXCO also received a progress report on the planned unveiling of the Ibom Medical City Project, a major healthcare investment that includes a 350-bed International Hospital and other supporting medical facilities.
The council was informed that the project unveiling has been scheduled for June 23, 2026, marking another milestone in the state’s efforts to position itself as a regional healthcare hub.
On social welfare, EXCO noted the commencement of the fourth phase of free food distribution to vulnerable residents captured in the State Social Register, with coverage expected to extend to all 31 local government areas before the end of June.
The council also acknowledged the transmission of twelve Executive Bills to the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly and commended the Speaker and lawmakers for commencing legislative consideration and public hearings on the proposed laws.
EXCO further expressed appreciation to residents of the state for their support during the recent APC primary elections, which produced President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Governor Umo Eno as party flag bearers for their respective positions.
The governor thanked Akwa Ibom people for their continued support and urged eligible citizens to participate actively in the ongoing voter registration exercise, describing it as both a civic and constitutional responsibility.
