Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has declared that local government councils in the state have no justification for failing to execute projects that benefit grassroots communities. The governor made the statement during the inauguration of the newly constructed 5,000-capacity Eket City Hall and the foundation-laying ceremony for an ultra-modern legislative complex in Eket Local Government Area.
Represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Frank Archibong, Governor Eno emphasized that the projects align with his administration’s ARISE Agenda.
“This is a landmark project. Whenever you see this picture anywhere, you’ll know it’s Eket,” he said. “Though it serves the Eket Senatorial District, the hall is also available for use by the state. This is the ARISE Agenda at work in Eket Local Government.”
The governor stressed that the City Hall would not only serve as an event center but also as a revenue-generating asset for the council. He reiterated that local governments in Akwa Ibom have the resources and support to drive development at the grassroots level.
Eket Local Government Chairman Akaniyene Tommey described the City Hall as a “symbol of unity and progress,” highlighting its potential to boost internally generated revenue and create jobs. He also announced the disbursement of a N50 million grant to 500 entrepreneurs under the Eket ARISE Empowerment Initiative SmallBiz Grant, aimed at strengthening small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the area.
“The impact of this grant will be far-reaching—stimulating local businesses, boosting productivity, and improving the standard of living for our people,” Tommey said.
The event underscores the state government’s commitment to grassroots development and economic empowerment.
