Governor Umo Eno releases ₦50bn to keep contractors working through Christmas
On Monday, November 18, 2024, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State announced that ₦50 billion will be released to contractors to ensure they remain on-site and continue working through the Christmas season. This move is part of his government’s efforts to fast-track the completion of key infrastructure projects across the state.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Aviation Village at Victor Attah International Airport, Governor Eno explained that the dry season is the best time to execute projects, given the state’s weather challenges. To ensure the timely completion of ongoing projects, he made it clear that contractors must stay committed to their work through the holiday season.
“We are releasing ₦50 billion to contractors to ensure they don’t go on Christmas vacation. Only contractors who sign undertakings to stay back and complete their projects will be paid,” Governor Eno said.
The governor also revealed that over ₦220 billion has been allocated for road projects in the 2024 budget, aiming to position Akwa Ibom as a major construction and infrastructure hub in Nigeria. “By 2025, we aim to consolidate these efforts,” he added.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to boosting the state’s aviation infrastructure, Governor Eno said, “We are reaffirming our commitment to making Akwa Ibom the aviation hub of Nigeria.” He also praised RAS Premium Construction Limited for their quick mobilization and site preparation for the Aviation Village project. “This site was once a bush, but you have transformed it. Your dedication is evident. I encourage you to remain on-site because you met our conditions and won the bid,” he stated.
Governor Eno also addressed the removal of the Managing Director of Ibom Power Company, Engr. Meyen Etukudo, announcing the formation of a probe panel to investigate the company’s operations. “We need to determine why the company is running at a loss and owes its gas supplier. Any government investment that fails to yield profit will lead to the removal of the MD. I don’t care about blackmail. We cannot continue investing public funds in projects that yield no results. That’s not how I was raised,” he asserted.
Dr. Iniobong Essien, Chairman of the Ibom Airport Development Company, commended Governor Eno for his aviation-friendly policies and described the Aviation Village project as an innovative and transformative initiative that would revolutionize the aviation sector in the region.
This ₦50 billion release is a bold move to keep key projects on track during the holiday season, signaling the governor’s dedication to rapid development in Akwa Ibom.
