Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno has signed into law a N695 billion supplementary budget, with an immediate release of N60 billion to fast-track the execution of key infrastructure and social projects across the state.
The signing ceremony, which took place at Government House, Uyo, during the October edition of the State’s Project Delivery Meeting, marks a renewed push by the Eno administration to accelerate the implementation of its development agenda before year-end.
Speaking shortly after appending his signature to the document, Governor Eno thanked the Speaker and members of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly for the prompt passage of the Appropriation Bill, assuring that the funds would be used judiciously.
“Let me assure the people of Akwa Ibom State that all hands are on deck, and we will continue to carry out our duties with probity and dedication for the benefit of all,” Eno said.
“With the passage and signing of the supplementary budget today, we are further fired up to ensure the full implementation of government programmes and projects as contained in the budget.”
The Governor emphasized that the supplementary budget was designed to reinforce the administration’s priorities in infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, and tourism, while sustaining transparency and accountability.
“As a government, we are committed to openness and fiscal discipline,” he said. “We have put mechanisms in place to ensure that every kobo is accounted for, and that our people continue to see tangible results from our policies.”
To ensure faster delivery, Governor Eno announced the release of N60 billion to contractors whose Interim Payment Certificates were ready.
He also directed heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies as well as Delivery Advisors, to enforce strict compliance with project timelines and standards.
The October Project Delivery Meeting featured presentations on over 20 major projects across sectors, including the Tree Crop Revolution, Ibom Tourism Summit, Arise Resort, Oron Maritime and Jetty Project, CNG City Bus Project, Ibom Model Farm, Ibom International Hospital, and several road and industrial developments.
In his remarks, Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, praised Governor Eno’s inclusive and performance-driven leadership style.
“We have never witnessed this kind of delivery review in our state,” Otong said. “It gives us a clear understanding of what is happening across sectors. For me, this is a strong oversight function, and it shows the Governor’s commitment to accountability.”
Otong also commended the Governor for the ongoing renovation of the House of Assembly Complex and pledged the legislature’s continued partnership with the Executive in ensuring good governance.
Stakeholders present, including Senator Effiong Bob, lauded the Governor for institutionalizing monthly delivery sessions, which they described as a hallmark of transparency and participatory governance.
