The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, has approved the immediate release of an additional N2.1 billion for the payment of gratuities to retired workers, bringing the total amount disbursed since his inauguration 16 months ago to N35 billion.
According to a press statement released by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ekerete Udoh, this latest action reaffirms the governor’s commitment to clearing the backlog of gratuities, which was one of his key campaign promises. The breakdown of the new payment includes N1.1 billion for retired state civil servants, N500 million for retired primary school teachers, and N500 million for retired local government workers.
The statement further stated that, ”Governor Umo Eno has shown exceptional leadership, even in the face of personal loss, following the passing of his dear wife, Pastor (Mrs.) Patience Umo Eno, First Lady of Akwa Ibom State.”
”The governor has continued to keep his promises and ensure the smooth operation of the state’s affairs.”
“Governor Eno remains fully committed to the people of Akwa Ibom, and his determination to address the welfare of our retirees and the most vulnerable citizens has never wavered.”
The governor’s compassion extends beyond retirees. Through the Arise Elderly Care Initiative, over 600,000 elderly citizens receive N50,000 monthly, while 600 of these beneficiaries will be enrolled for a year in the State’s Health Insurance Scheme. Additionally, the Arise Free Food Voucher Programme, run by the Bulk Purchase Agency, is providing direct food relief to the most vulnerable with ongoing distribution of rice, garri, and beans.
Governor Eno’s youth empowerment initiatives are also in full swing, impacting over 100,000 youths across the state. Last month, the governor announced a bursary increase from N10,000 to N20,000 for undergraduate students in public tertiary institutions, and from N10,000 to N30,000 for those pursuing professional courses such as law, medicine, engineering, and agriculture.
The N2 billion loan earlier given to traders in the state has been converted into a grant, including provisions for residents from the Arewa, Yoruba, Igbo, and Niger Delta communities, as part of the governor’s inclusive approach to governance.
Moreover, Governor Eno has continued to fulfill his promise of providing homes for the less privileged. Last month, 150 two-bedroom homes were given free to civil servants in grade levels 1-8 under the Grace Homes Scheme. Additionally, 36 Arise Compassionate Homes, complete with electricity and water supply, have been handed over to beneficiaries across the state, while construction continues on 164 more units to bring the total to 200 within his first two years.
“Governor Umo Eno’s administration is built on compassion, integrity, and the desire to uplift the most vulnerable segments of our society. His actions speak louder than words, and the people of Akwa Ibom are the true beneficiaries,” said Udoh, according to the press statement.
The governor’s commitment to workers’ welfare and his ongoing rural development, infrastructural projects, and agricultural initiatives continue to gain widespread praise as his administration keeps delivering on its promises.
