By Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah, Commissioner for Information
November 5, 2025
The Akwa Ibom State Executive Council, presided over by Governor Umo Bassey Eno, convened its enlarged meeting on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at Government House, Uyo. The meeting, chaired by the Governor, had in attendance the Secretary to the State Government, Head of Civil Service, Honourable Commissioners, Special Advisers, Permanent Secretaries, and Heads of Extra-Ministerial Departments.
In his opening remarks, Governor Eno urged members to sustain their commitment to the successful implementation of the ARISE Agenda, which continues to shape the State’s development priorities.
Council deliberated on several key issues and approved major resolutions, notably the endorsement of a ₦1.39 trillion budget proposal for the 2026 fiscal year. The proposed budget, which will be transmitted to the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly for consideration, focuses on expanding the dividends of the ARISE Agenda through agriculture, infrastructure, security, education, healthcare, tourism, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability.
The fiscal plan places emphasis on completing flagship projects, job creation through MSME empowerment, and enhancing transportation with CNG buses and ferries. It also underscores transparency, fiscal discipline, and human capital development, particularly for women, youth, and vulnerable groups.
The Council ratified the Finance and General Purpose Committee’s approval for the upward review of the Aviation Village project, covering access roads, fencing, electrical works, and residential facilities within the Victor Attah International Airport. Also ratified was the consultancy and system integration contract for AKBC Television and Radio, awarded to MediaGuru LLC, Dubai.
Following a progress report on the State of Emergency in the Health Sector, Council directed the immediate deployment of re-engaged retired health workers and the commencement of work on eight General Hospitals, 29 Primary Healthcare Centres, and a Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory. The commissioning of the Ukanafun General Hospital was rescheduled to November 18, 2025.
To strengthen the State’s financial assets, Council approved ₦4.15 billion for the recapitalisation of Anchor Insurance Limited in exchange for high-value properties in Lagos. APICO and AKICORP were mandated to convert the recovered assets into wealth for the State.
Other highlights included the approval of three Executive Bills — the Domestication and Harmonization of Taxes and Levies Bill, the Akwa Ibom State Property Tax Law, and the implementation of the new National Tax Act.
Governor Eno commended Elder Effiong Essien, the outgoing Head of Civil Service, for his meritorious service and extended condolences to the family of the late Reverend Emmanuel Ossom.
