A major milestone was recorded in Eket over the weekend as Governor Umo Eno reaffirmed his administration’s stance that local government councils have no excuse not to deliver people-focused projects.
The governor, represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Frank Archibong, made the declaration during the commissioning of the newly constructed 5,000-capacity Eket City Hall and the foundation laying of a modern legislative complex.
He described the Eket City Hall as a signature achievement under the ARISE Agenda. “This is a landmark project. Whenever you see this picture anywhere, you’ll know it’s Eket,” he said. “Though it primarily serves the Eket Senatorial District, the facility is also open for use by the state.”
Governor Eno emphasized that the City Hall is not only a civic center but a potential revenue-generating asset for the local government. “Local government councils in Akwa Ibom have no excuse not to execute projects,” he stated firmly.
The event also featured the disbursement of a N50 million SmallBiz Grant to 500 local entrepreneurs. According to the governor, “This three-pronged event—the grant disbursement, legislative complex foundation laying, and the City Hall commissioning—marks a significant chapter in the history of this land.”
Earlier, Eket LGA Chairman, Mr. Akaniyene Tommey, described the new facility as more than just a building, calling it “a symbol of unity and progress.”
He noted that the hall’s economic potential lies in its capacity to host major events, create jobs, and boost internally generated revenue.
Tommey also highlighted the Eket ARISE Empowerment Initiative as a catalyst for local economic growth. “With this grant, we are empowering small and medium enterprises—the backbone of our economy—as championed by His Excellency,” he said.
