… Receives Continental Governance Award
THE GAMBIA
The governor of Akwa Ibom State has been honoured with the African Leader in People-Centric Governance Award at the 19th Security Watch Africa Conference and Awards held in Banjul, The Gambia, in recognition of his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance, security and sustainable development.
Pastor Umo Eno, who was represented by his deputy, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, at the Conference and Awards, which brought together political leaders, defence and security chiefs, diplomats, policymakers and development experts from across Africa to examine innovative strategies for strengthening governance, security and sustainable development on the continent, received the continental honour alongside The Gambian President, Adama Barrow, and other distinguished African leaders celebrated for their contributions to governance and regional security.
In his keynoteambia, Governor Eno applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture through enhanced collaboration with the Armed Forces and other security agencies.
Eno stressed that lasting peace, inclusive leadership and people-centred governance remain fundamental to sustainable economic growth, while calling for stronger regional cooperation, intelligence sharing and collective action to address emerging security challenges across the continent.
The governor dedicated the award to the people of Akwa Ibom, describing it as a testament to the collective efforts of government, security agencies and citizens in building one of Nigeria’s most peaceful and secure states. He maintained that the true measure of leadership lies in improving the welfare of citizens through the protection of lives and property and adherence to the rule of law.
Using the international platform to showcase Akwa Ibom’s development strides, the governor highlighted achievements recorded under the ARISE Agenda in agriculture, healthcare, education, infrastructure, aviation, tourism and social welfare, noting that the administration has constructed over 1,346 kilometres of roads and bridges, established the Ibom Model Farm and Tree Crop Revolution, commissioned the 350-bed Ibom International Hospital, enrolled over 300,000 residents into the State Health Insurance Scheme and commenced the construction of more than 455 solar-powered Compassionate Homes.
He also outlined strategic investments designed to position Akwa Ibom as a preferred investment destination, including the ARISE Palm Resort, the International Convention Centre, the remodelling of Ibom International Hotel, Ibom Air’s regional expansion and the ongoing Ibom Deep Seaport project.
On security, Governor Eno cited the establishment of the Ministry of Internal Security and Waterways, the Ibom Community Watch, the integration of 2,272 gazetted Village Youth Presidents into the state’s security framework and the construction of a modern Security Command and Control Centre as major initiatives that have strengthened public safety.
The International Coordinator of Security Watch Africa, Patrick Agbambu, said Governor Eno was selected for the award in recognition of his people-focused leadership and commitment to improving the lives of citizens.
The conference also honoured several outstanding institutions and security leaders across Africa, while Governor Eno invited investors from across the continent and beyond to explore the vast opportunities available in Akwa Ibom, assuring them of a peaceful environment, modern infrastructure and investor-friendly policies.
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