AKWA IBOM STATE: AN INVESTMENT HAVEN UNDER THE LEADERSHIP OF CHIEF GODSWILL OBOT AKPABIO
Humanity always makes room for people with a purpose, a vision and a mission who make a demand for such. And such was the case in 2007 when Chief Godswill Obot Akpabio, in a race with over 58 other aspirants, demanded for room to change the destiny of Akwa Ibom people. The people of Akwa Ibom State, who like passengers in a molue bus, were wary of the slow pace of governance in a rapidly changing world with circumspection gave him room.
Today the lethargy of the people has been whipped into a patriotic fervour and unbounded enthusiasm by an unprecedented whirlwind of development that has touched all spheres of life in Akwa Ibom State. To understand the leadership qualities of Governor Akpabio, one needs to understand how he won that all-important nominating race.
Simply put, Governor Godswill Akpabio won by the margin of his faith and by his uncanny ability to bond with people and build a state-wide support base. He triumphed because of his immense leadership skills and mobilizational ability. He won because he came with a good heart and a mind to serve.
The declaration of his gubernatorial aspiration could not be compared to the elaborate declarations of some of the establishment-favoured candidates. But like the Biblical story of David and the House of Saul, his supporters kept increasing, and the supporters of the others kept dwindling. Ultimately the grueling race climaxed in a "last-man-standing" denouncement. And the last man standing was Chief Godswill Obot Akpabio.
Chief Akpabio has a dynamic and engaging leadership style. He connects easily with people and he inspires them. He bubbles with boundless energy and has the adeptness for clear and disppasionate analysis of issues. When it looked like the tide was not in his favour in the primary election, his upbeat style, enthusiasm and never-say-die spirit motivated his supporters and they rallied around him. His style was reminiscent of the "Yes We Can" slogan of US President, Barack Obama during his presidential campaigns.
Like Humphrey Davy points out, "Every great and commanding movement in the annals of the world is the triumph of enthusiasm. Nothing great was ever achieved without it." With boundless enthusiasm, he rallied the masses to cross the hurdle of the primary election and counfounded bookmakers. And riding on this momentum, he was elected Governor of Akwa Ibom State in a landslide victory.
His adminsitartion still powered by this enthusiasm, has sown the seeds of "a great and commanding movement" in Akwa Ibom State. From the sandy beaches of Ibeno to the rice fields of Ikono, and from the undulating hills of Itu to the fish markets of Mbo, Akwa Ibom people have caught the bug and are enthusiastically declaring "Akwa Ibom Ado Okay." The esteem of Akwa Ibom people is soaring, and it has never felt so good to be an Akwa Ibom person. Inspiring leadership!
Inspiring leadership is a key ingredient of a successful leader. President Obama won the United States presidency by insisting that he would focus completely on providing leadership vision, judgement and inspiration. He promised not to micromanage, but rather to delegate responsibility and stay above the managerial fray. Chief Akpabio in the last seven years has provided vision, judgement and inspiration. His developmental strides are awe-inspiring! In the immediate future, Akwa Ibom State will have one of the best road networks in Africa and also an unbeatable hospitality structure.
But, perhaps the governor's greatest achievement is not in all these noble projects, but in their far-reaching and psychological consequences. According to former US President Bill Clinton, "Restoring of optimism is the beginning of progress." The Governor has put optimism at its peak and progress blows across the land like an ocean breeze. Suddenly, Akwa Ibom people are feeling proud to be Akwa Ibom people and can lift up their heads, "shoulders up and chests out" and march with dignity anywhere in Nigeria. In this he is fulfilled as a leader because according to a former US President, John Quincy Adams, "If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader." Chief Godswill Obot Akpabio, CON is a leader by all ramification.
The government of Chief (Dr) Godswill Akpabio, CON has invested enormously on roads infrastructural development. This is due to the realization that good roads network is a critical foundation for an emerging industrial economy during the seven years of the present administration, more than 310 (three hundred and ten) roads covering over 1300 kilometres have been constructed. These include; six federal roads and other inter and intra-city roads across the three senatorial districts of the state.
Humanity always makes room for people with a purpose, a vision and a mission who make a demand for such. And such was the case in 2007 when Chief Godswill Obot Akpabio, in a race with over 58 other aspirants, demanded for room to change the destiny of Akwa Ibom people. The people of Akwa Ibom State, who like passengers in a molue bus, were wary of the slow pace of governance in a rapidly changing world with circumspection gave him room.
Today the lethargy of the people has been whipped into a patriotic fervour and unbounded enthusiasm by an unprecedented whirlwind of development that has touched all spheres of life in Akwa Ibom State. To understand the leadership qualities of Governor Akpabio, one needs to understand how he won that all-important nominating race.
Simply put, Governor Godswill Akpabio won by the margin of his faith and by his uncanny ability to bond with people and build a state-wide support base. He triumphed because of his immense leadership skills and mobilizational ability. He won because he came with a good heart and a mind to serve.
The declaration of his gubernatorial aspiration could not be compared to the elaborate declarations of some of the establishment-favoured candidates. But like the Biblical story of David and the House of Saul, his supporters kept increasing, and the supporters of the others kept dwindling. Ultimately the grueling race climaxed in a "last-man-standing" denouncement. And the last man standing was Chief Godswill Obot Akpabio.
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| Massive road construction in the state |
Chief Akpabio has a dynamic and engaging leadership style. He connects easily with people and he inspires them. He bubbles with boundless energy and has the adeptness for clear and disppasionate analysis of issues. When it looked like the tide was not in his favour in the primary election, his upbeat style, enthusiasm and never-say-die spirit motivated his supporters and they rallied around him. His style was reminiscent of the "Yes We Can" slogan of US President, Barack Obama during his presidential campaigns.
Like Humphrey Davy points out, "Every great and commanding movement in the annals of the world is the triumph of enthusiasm. Nothing great was ever achieved without it." With boundless enthusiasm, he rallied the masses to cross the hurdle of the primary election and counfounded bookmakers. And riding on this momentum, he was elected Governor of Akwa Ibom State in a landslide victory.
His adminsitartion still powered by this enthusiasm, has sown the seeds of "a great and commanding movement" in Akwa Ibom State. From the sandy beaches of Ibeno to the rice fields of Ikono, and from the undulating hills of Itu to the fish markets of Mbo, Akwa Ibom people have caught the bug and are enthusiastically declaring "Akwa Ibom Ado Okay." The esteem of Akwa Ibom people is soaring, and it has never felt so good to be an Akwa Ibom person. Inspiring leadership!
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| 30,000 capacity Ibom International Stadium in Uyo, the capital city of Akwa Ibom State |
Inspiring leadership is a key ingredient of a successful leader. President Obama won the United States presidency by insisting that he would focus completely on providing leadership vision, judgement and inspiration. He promised not to micromanage, but rather to delegate responsibility and stay above the managerial fray. Chief Akpabio in the last seven years has provided vision, judgement and inspiration. His developmental strides are awe-inspiring! In the immediate future, Akwa Ibom State will have one of the best road networks in Africa and also an unbeatable hospitality structure.
But, perhaps the governor's greatest achievement is not in all these noble projects, but in their far-reaching and psychological consequences. According to former US President Bill Clinton, "Restoring of optimism is the beginning of progress." The Governor has put optimism at its peak and progress blows across the land like an ocean breeze. Suddenly, Akwa Ibom people are feeling proud to be Akwa Ibom people and can lift up their heads, "shoulders up and chests out" and march with dignity anywhere in Nigeria. In this he is fulfilled as a leader because according to a former US President, John Quincy Adams, "If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader." Chief Godswill Obot Akpabio, CON is a leader by all ramification.
AKWA IBOM STATE GOVERNOR CHIEF GODSWILL OBOT AKPABIO, CON
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| Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency, Chief Godswill Obot Akpabio, CON |
From early childhood, providence honed the leadership acumen of Chief Godswill Obot Akpabio, CON, with an innate passion for helping people expand their imagination and maximize their potentials. This passion did not only deepen in him a strong sense of justice and a great passion for excellence, it led him to positions of leadership in the different stages of his life. Like a diligent coach, destiny prepared him painstakingly for impact and influence.
Driven by the same passion and popular acceptance, he became the Governor of Akwa Ibom State in May 2007, and commenced a revolution in the state, which has excited the imagination of the people, and has been aptly described as “uncommon transformation.” He has been widely honored and celebrated within and outside the state because of his great investments in human and infrastructural development. He has emerged as one of the most honored men in our country today, and a treasure in Akwa Ibom State. His visionary leadership style has motivated and shaped an entire generation of Akwa Ibom people and it has become a metaphor for administrative excellence.
PERSONAL DETAILS
The son of Chief Obot Akpabio and Madam Lucy Obot Akpabio (nee Inyangetor) of Ukana Ikot Ntuen in Essien Udim Local Government Area, Governor Godswill Akpabio was born on December 9, 1962. He lost his father early in life and was raised by his mother, who inculcated in him the values of hard work, discipline and honesty.
He was educated at Methodist Primary School, Ukana, Essien Udim LGA, Akwa Ibom State; the prestigious Federal Government College, Port Harcourt, Rivers State; and the University of Calabar, Cross River State, where he obtained a Degree in Law. He was called to the Nigerian bar in 1988.
A MIRROR ON A LIFE OF SERVICE
At Federal Government College, his leadership style shone like a star and he was appointed the General Senior Prefect. In the University of Calabar, his charisma endeared him to the students and he was elected the Speaker of the Students’ Parliament.
He had a brief stint as a teacher and as an associate partner with Paul Usoro and Co., a leading law firm in the Country. In 2002, Governor Akpabio rose to the position of the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of EMIS Telecoms Limited, a pioneer fixed wireless telecommunications company in Lagos. In this position, he helped in shaping the future of the burgeoning telecoms industry. He had earlier served as the National Publicity Secretary of the Association of Telecommunication Companies in Nigeria, (ATCOM), while a director of EMIS.
THE CALL TO SERVICE
In 2002, he was appointed the Honourable Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Resources. Between 2002 and 2006, he served as a Commissioner in three key ministries (Petroleum and Natural Resources, Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and Lands and Housing) because of the indelible imprints of competence and efficiency associated with his stewardship.
Governor Akpabio taking the oath of office for a second term in office. 29th May 2011.
His admirable attributes, charisma and virtues led to a mass, statewide agitation for him to seek higher office. His Governorship bid in 2007 was anchored on the unselfish premise, “let God’s will be done.” With this mass support, he defeated 57 aspirants in the hotly-contested primary election to emerge the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in 2006. On April 24, 2007 he was elected Governor. And in 2011 he was re-elected Governor, after running a campaign anchored on the same slogan “Let God’s will be done again.”
MILESTONES OF GOVERNANCE
Indeed, God’s will has been done in all facets of life in Akwa Ibom State. God’s will has been done in the free and compulsory education programme initiated by the Akpabio administration from primary to senior secondary school. This has curbed the house help syndrome, which the State was hitherto known for. It has also helped in combating kidnapping and vices by providing proper direction for children in the state. This programme codified into law, pays subvention to Secondary School principals at N300 per student per term and to primary school head teachers at N100 per pupil per term. It has tripled school enrollment in the state; and over 4,560 classroom blocks have been built or rehabilitated in 1,183 schools to support the programme.
The development agenda of the Akpabio administration has turned the State into an indelible testimony of uncommon transformation. Some highlights of the unquantifiable giant strides of Governor Akpabio include the following:
- Free and compulsory education; As mentioned and explained earlier.
- Completion of Ibom International Airport, which he met at site-clearing level and had since completed the first phase of the airport with 3.6 km runway. The airport comes with maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility which is under construction. Domestic and international flight operations had since commenced at the airport. Work has commenced on the building of the state-of-the-art main terminal building of the airport and another taxiway. So far the airport has become the fastest growing in the history of aviation in Nigeria. The main administrative block had since been completed.
New Government House, Uyo
- When he assumed office he declared that death never makes a distinction between federal roads and state roads and therefore he was going to repair all roads to stop Nigerians from unnecessary deaths on them. Many of these roads are dual carriageways with streetlights. Over 300 new roads, totaling over 1,000 km (including about 200 km of Federal roads) have been constructed. Also constructed are four concentric flyovers in Uyo. These roads, along with urban roads, have remained pothole-free under the Operation Zero Pothole programme initiated by him. Many of these roads are dual carriageway with streetlights. The Etebi Ewang bridge, constructed by his administration, is one of the longest in the country.
- Construction of a brand new state-of-the-arts Governor’s Lodge.
- Construction of West Africa’s first digital library – the Ibom E-Library. A state-of-the-arts facility with capacity for multifarious internet utilization and over 60 million eBooks.
- Initiation and implementation of free healthcare programme for children (five years and under), expectant mothers and the elderly.
- The initiation and completion of the 3.7 km underground drainage project using pipe-jacking drainage technology in Uyo. The first of its kind in Africa. Another one had also been done in Abak.
- Construction of five new general hospitals and a specialist hospital of international standard (still under construction).
- Completion of Ibom Power Plant project. Started by the preceding administration, it was at 65 percent level of completion when Governor Akpabio assumed office. It currently generates 191 megawatts
- Construction of a gas processing plant, Ibom Gas Plant, with 69 km of pipeline to supply gas to the Ibom Power Plant.
- Comprehensive rural electrification scheme, which has linked additional an additional 1,700 communities to the national grid, by embarking on 800 electricity projects. His administration has, therefore, achieved over 85 percent electricity coverage, from the 35 percent level he met at assumption of office in 2007.
- The rural electrification projects and school buildings are done under the Inter-ministerial Direct Labour model. In addition to its success in these areas the Inter-ministerial Direct Labour Agency has provided 300 water projects for 958 communities. The model has been a major source of empowerment for the people, who these jobs are given to and this has accelerated human capital development. All in all over 4,000 projects have been completed through this scheme.
Ibom Tropicana Entertainer Complex
- Construction of a world-class business and entertainment resort – the Tropicana Entertainment Centre. This one-stop entertainment facility comes with a five-star, 250-room hotel housed in 16-storey edifice; an ultra modern shopping mall; an international Convention Centre with a seating capacity for 5,000 people; games parks (wet and dry); a cineplex (already completed and open to the public); a monorail and a lot more. The main building is on the verge of completion.
- In the area of agriculture he recently released over N2 billion to 8,000 women under the Women Agro Entrepreneurship Development Programme (WAEDEP) at the rate of N250,000 each. His successes in this and in the training and empowerment of thousands of youths under the Integrated Farmers Scheme, in which young school leavers are given money to start farming after a three month period of training earned him the Central Bank of Nigeria Award as the Best Governor Infrastructure (2012).
- Improved security with the provision of patrol vehicles, armoured personal carriers and gunboats to boost security operations in the state. He has launched two security outfits namely, “Operation Thunder” and Quick “Response Squad.” These have checked the activities of kidnappers and led to a drastic decrease in crime in the state.
- Improved worker’s welfare packages with the payment of a thirteenth month bonus salary every December, fondly called “Akpabiomber” by workers in the state. It is worthy to add here that he was the first Governor in the country to accept to pay workers the N18,000 minimum wage. The least paid worker in the state takes home over N21,000 monthly. For all he has done for labour, the labour nation-wide has proclaimed him the most labour-friendly Governor in the country.
- He is currently opening up the country more to international trade with the development of the Ibaka Deep Sea Port. The Ibaka Deap Sea Port, has one of the deepest ocean depths in the country. It is designed to be one of the components of Ibom Industrial City, a business resort which will house refineries, petrochemical plant, dockyard, housing estates and oil and gas support services. The Federal Government recently bought into this mammoth project at partnership level and the required licenses have been issued for its take-off.
- The administration of this dynamic young man is also set to construct 10,000 housing units in the state before 2015. So far over 1,000 units of the first phase consisting of 2,000 housing units spread over the three Senatorial Districts have been completed.
- The Le’ Meridien Hotel, which was uncompleted at the time he took office and had just about fifteen rooms had since been completed and over 150 rooms added to it. It has become one of the choice conference centres in Nigeria and has the best golf course in Africa, according to the World’s leading golf magazine, “Golf Weekly.”
- He also started a micro-credit scheme in which money was given to the Christian Association of Nigeria and the Muslim Community to use as vehicles for the disbursement of loans to their members to start small scale businesses and expand their existing ventures. This has been hailed by the Christian and Muslim leaders in the state.
- The urban transformation of the present administration in Akwa Ibom State must rank as one of the most massive in history. Uyo, the capital, now boasts of three concentric flyovers, at its entrance with fountains and gardens, at the entrance into the city. Three more flyovers are under construction on the Third Ring Road. Urban roads have been done in all the major cities in the state and Uyo, the capital wears a new look as fountains have become a regular feature of many of its junctions.
HONOURS:
These giant strides have received honors and accolades from far and near. Some of these honors are listed here:
INTERNATIONAL HONOURS:
- The Congressional Certificate of Recognition of the United States Congress (2011). The award indicates that the US Congress has taken note of the achievements of the recipient and is appreciative of his efforts.
- Africa Lifetime Achievement Prize awarded by Millennium Excellence Foundation in Kenya.
- The Gold Humanitarian Services Award of the Republic of Niger`2008 conferred on him by Niger’s Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency, Alhaji Moussa Ibrahim.
- Exam Ethic Marshall 2009: Exam Ethic International, Ghana.
- Best Governor, Infrastructure Development 2009: BEN TV, London.
- Honorary Citizen of of the City of Georgia in United States
NATIONAL HONORS:
- Commander of the Order of the Niger.
- Best Governor Infrastructure and Empowerment Award of the Central Bank of Nigeria (2012).
- Most Prolific Governor by the National Councillors’ Forum.
ACADEMIC/PROFESSIONAL HONOURS:
- Doctor of Management Science, Honoris Causa, Nigeria Defence Academy (2011).
- Doctor of Law, Honoris Causa, University of Nigeria, Nsukka (2010).
- Doctor of Law, Honoris Causa, University of Calabar, Calabar (2009).
- Doctor of Law, Honoris Causa, University of Uyo, Uyo (2009).
- Doctor of Public Administration (Honoris Causa), Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka (2009)
- Doctor of Managment Science (Honoris Causa) Federal University of Technology, Owerri (2011);
- Doctor of Human Resource Management (Honoris Causa) Wesley `University of Science and Technology, Ondo
- Honorary Fellow of Nigeria Society of Engineers (2010) (Only fourteen non-engineers have so far been so honoured in Nigeria).
- Fellow, Kazaure Polytechnic, Kazaure (2008);
- Fellow of the Yaba College of Technology, Yaba (2011);
- Fellow of the College of Education, Bichi, and a host of others.
- Most Education Friendly Governor in Nigeria (2008) by the National Parents Teachers Association.
- Best Booster Governor Award for Promoting Science, Technology and Mathematics by the Science Teachers Association of Nigeria.
- Goodwill Ambassador of the Nigerian Medical Association.
MEDIA HONOURS
- Best Governor in Africa, Africa Development Magazine
- Governor of the Year 2012, Leadership Newspaper
- Man of the Year 2011, Sun Newspapers.
- Best Governor in Nigeria and Outstanding Human Brand 2010: Billboard World.
- Man of the Year 2010: National Daily Newspaper.
- Governor of the Year 2010: Nigerian Tribune.
- Award of Excellence for Outstanding Performance 2010: Nigeria Union of Journalists.
- Nigeria’s Emerging Tiger 2009: Thisday Newspapers.
- Man of the Year 2009: Daily Independent Newspapers.
- Man of the Year 2009: National Daily Newspaper.
- 2008 Most Outstanding Governor in Nigeria (South South): National Daily Newspaper.
- Governor of the Year (South-South): City People Magazine.
- Best Governor Infrastructure 2009: Encomium Magazine.
- Best Governor (South South): Encomium Magazine.
- Excellency Award as Best Governor South-South 2009: Global Excellence Magazine.
OTHER HONOURS
Nehemiah Award of the African Church and several other honours from other churches.
Nehemiah Award of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion).
He is the recipient of over 30 chieftaincy titles. These include the Uko Akwa Ibom (awarded to him by the Akwa Ibom State Council of Chiefs), Utuenikang Ibibio, Iberedem Ibibio, Nta Nta Offiong Annang, Atta of Eket and the Nta Nta Oro, to mention just a few.
It is notable that Governor Akpabio was mentioned in Wikileaks. But unlike others who received negative mention, his mention was, to our national pride, for the right reasons. Wikileaks quoted American diplomatic correspondences as saying that Akwa Ibom, under him, was one of the fastest growing states in infrastructure development in Nigeria, and should be watched.
FAMILY
A Christian of the Catholic Faith, he is happily married to the beautiful and amiable Mrs. Ekaette Unoma Akpabio and the marriage is blessed with four beautiful daughters and a son. He and his wife share a great passion for the underprivileged and for service to the community.
CONCLUSION
His Excellency, Governor Godswill Obot Akpabio’s sojourn through life appears to have been pre-ordained and conditioned for leadership and impact. His life is like an emerging radiance and we have only caught a glimpse of his potential. We proudly present him to the august assembly for this latest honor.
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| IBAKA SEA PORT |
Ibaka Integrated Deep Seaport Initiative
The Ibaka Integrated Deep Seaport project is one mega project whose economic importance to Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria and the entire Gulf of Guinea has been well acknowledged. This has informed keen interest of the Federal Government of Nigeria in the project, which on completion, is expected to redefine the direction of economic activities in the sub-region. To underscore the importance of the Ibaka Intergraded Deep Seaport to the economy of the region the Federal government of Nigeria not long along ago gave approval and set up a technical implementation committee to ensure the actualization of this dream project and the required licenses have been issued for its takeoff.
The Ibaka Integrated Deep Seaport consists of key components are also constitute major investment areas for potential local and international investors.
The key components of the IIDS, are:
• Petrochemical Industries (eg, fertilizer plant)
• Refineries
• Five Star Hotel
• Dockyard and watercraft Repair Facilities
• Cargo Handling and Associated activities
• Petrochemical Industries (eg, fertilizer plant)
• Refineries
• Five Star Hotel
• Dockyard and watercraft Repair Facilities
• Cargo Handling and Associated activities
The Ibaka Deep Sea Port is designed to be one of the components of proposed Ibom Industrial City. The Industrial City business resort is expected to house refineries, petrochemical plant, dockyard, housing estates and oil and gas support services.
The Ibaka seaport has the following unique features:
• Has a natural draught of 11 meters
• requires little dredging to accommodate large ocean going vessels
• located in the oil rich region and would serve the oil companies and oil service companies located within the region
• Easy access to the oil rich Gulf of Guinea
• Proximity and centrality to Deep offshore operations & West African region, JDZ, Sao Tome, Equatorial Guinea, Angola, Gabon, Tinapa.
• Could stimulate industrial, mercantile and tourism activities
• Development of infrastructure to support oil & gas exploration, shipping, industries and international trade within a free trade zone framework
• The synergy so generated would be used as a vehicle for rapid development
• Employment of a strategy that balances rapid industrialisation/ economic growth with environment protection.
• requires little dredging to accommodate large ocean going vessels
• located in the oil rich region and would serve the oil companies and oil service companies located within the region
• Easy access to the oil rich Gulf of Guinea
• Proximity and centrality to Deep offshore operations & West African region, JDZ, Sao Tome, Equatorial Guinea, Angola, Gabon, Tinapa.
• Could stimulate industrial, mercantile and tourism activities
• Development of infrastructure to support oil & gas exploration, shipping, industries and international trade within a free trade zone framework
• The synergy so generated would be used as a vehicle for rapid development
• Employment of a strategy that balances rapid industrialisation/ economic growth with environment protection.
Inter Ministerial Direct Labour Coordinating Committee
Since assumption of office by the present administration, the concept and strategy of rural development in Akwa Ibom State assumed a new dimension with the inauguration of Inter-Ministerial Direct Labour Coordinating Committee, coordinated by the Ministry of Finance.
The committee was conceived as a clearinghouse for the expeditious implementation of identified people oriented projects that could rapidly impact positively on the rural people. The committee adopts an implementation model that is devoid of bureaucratic bottlenecks.
The inter-ministerial direct labour option is fast becoming a replicable model for other states. As with his other policy strides, Governor Akpabio is employing this approach to rural development as a tool for translating his vision for Akwa Ibom into reality, which is the hallmark of true leadership.
The aim of the Committee is to improve the quality of life and standard of living of rural dwellers. This new approach to rural development is multi-sectoral and comprises integrated programme packages designed to be mutually re-enforcing in the achievement of rural transformation.
So far, the committee has completed and commissioned over 6,256.
They include rehabilitation and construction of school blocks, health centres, mini water works, electrification, etc. it has also executed over 10,000 projects regarded as non commissionable projects such as toilet conveniences in Primary/Secondary schools and Health Centres, Flag Stands in Schools, Reticulation of water and Dual Desks etc.
Education
I emerged from the first free and fair primaries conducted by the PDP. The people waited on the streets for five days with me. I had 98% of the votes across the entire state. That is why when I emerged I made a pledge to them, I told them their lives will never be the same again, either in the educational sector or in infrastructure.
It is true that those who undermine the values of education live and die in ignorance. It is also true to say that those who give education give wealth and knowledge. Little wonder then that one of the greatest legacies Governor Godswill Akpabio has bequeathed to the people of Akwa Ibom State is the Free and Compulsory Education policy. Under this policy, Akwa Ibom children of school age are enabled to go to school free from Primary to Senior Secondary School level. In addition to free tuition, the State pays a subvention of N100 per Primary school pupil and N300per Secondary School student to cater for logistics and expenses for the administration of each child.
The Ibom E- Library is West Africa’s first digital library, with state-of-the-art ICT facilities.
Of course it must be reminded that this gesture is not only for Akwa Ibom children but also for other Nigerian children resident and schooling in the state. Thus it can be said with all sense of responsibility that more Nigerian children from other states of the federation, with their kin to stay with are daily relocating to the state in order to tap the benefits of the free education policy of the state.
Governor Akpabio also ensures the provision of a conducive learning environment in schools for Akwa Ibom children through massive rehabilitation and reconstruction of schools’ blocks, provision of Science and Laboratory equipment, construction of hostels and supply of desks etc. And wherever you go you find primary and secondary schools roofs wearing uniform colour indicating that they have been touched by the same Midas’ hands.
Apart from the free and compulsory Education from primary to senior secondary School level, there are other features that bear very unique about the policy. Time there was when students toiled from JS1to SS3 only for parents or guardians to tell them that there was no money for them to register for final examinations. And they would helplessly and dejectedly have to withdraw and wait for another year to come, hoping that God would grant them the opportunity of registering for this most important examination at that level. But today, Akpabio has undertaken Payment of SSCE fees for all students in Public Secondary Schools. That also includes payment of NABTEB fees for all students in Public Technical Colleges.
Science laboratories have now come alive in the state as the administration has also undertaken the procurement and distribution of science equipment and materials to public secondary schools across the State, as well as the implementation of the 27 percent new TSS for teachers. Payment of grant to law students, pre-medical and medical students as well as provision of Laptops to all law students in the 2008/2009 batch of the Nigeria Law School are now a priority of the government.
Aerial view of rehabilitated Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, Ikot Ekpene
This administration also provides facilities and has constructed the internal roads in the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State University and the Polytechnic Ikot Osurua. All these are aimed at making the environment more conducive for learning. Construction of an e-library in the State is another feat by the present administration as this is the first of its kind in this part of the world. The e-library was conceived and executed to serve as a reference centre for researchers and set the stage for the growth of virtual education. In a bid to encouraging science studies as the pivot for technological development, government now provides free textbooks in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematic and Integrated Science (N200,000 each).
It is believed that with all these arrangements put in place by the present administration, the state has been placed in good stead to continue with her drive to greater heights. But governor Akpabio will not lead forever. It is therefore to be hoped that as his tenure ends in 2015, whoever succeeds him will adopt these policies as state policies aimed at achieving enduring developmental drive.
Akpabio has succeeded in raising a point, that with good thinking, a people can stand out from a madding crowd. The state electorate therefore has a greater task and responsibility of ensuring that henceforth, only the best will be good enough to lead the good people of Akwa-Abasi Ibom State to her Eldorado. If this endeavour is adopted as a crusade, and unity is made a guiding principle, for sure, the State will soar like the falcon to endless height
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| Millennium Specialist Hospital, Uyo |
Healthcare in Akwa Ibom State
The present government has invested heavily to revamp and restructure the health sector in order to make healthcare delivery not only accessible but also affordable for every Akwa Ibom person. This it has done by providing free healthcare for children (five years and under), expectant mothers and the elderly. To further boost efforts at making the health care delivery system in the State strong and reliable, government embarked on the:
- Construction of a world class Specialist Hospital at Ekim Itam – 20th Anniversary Hospital
- Donation of N50million to University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) and building of a pediatrics block
- Building of an oxygen plant at General Hospital, Ikot Ekpene, the first in the history of the State
- Activation and expansion of 8 Anti-Retroviral therapy centers, 15 prevention of mother to child transmission (PMTCT) centers and 37 HIV counseling and testing centers. All rendering free services
- Procurement and commissioning of State-of-the-art ambulances
- Construction of new PHCs in the three (3) Senatorial Districts of the State
- Procurement of utility vehicles to 159 doctors in the State government employ to facilitate theirs transportation
- Construction of Cottage Hospitals in Essien Udim, Ibeno, Ukanafun, Eastern Obolo and Ika
- High immunization coverage to eradicate polio and all other childhood killer diseases
- Provision of counterpart funding for all health programmes by donor organization like UNICEF, UNFPA, Operation Roll Back Malaria and HIV/AIDs World Bank Assisted Programme.
Road Infrastructure
Prior to the assumption of office by Governor Godswill Akpabio, various major roads, especially federal roads were in very deplorable condition. Such roads as the Afaha Obong – Etim Ekpo, Iwukem road; Abak – Ikot Ekpene road; Nung Udoe, Itak – Use Ikot Amama roads, Enin Nsit and Ikot Ekpene internal roads in various Local Government Areas were completely impassable, thereby cutting off residents of those areas from activities of the state. In fact there were many relationships separated by road. It was like the proverbial lamentation of having friends over the seashore but the sea does not allow for us to go and visit them. In keeping with his electioneering campaign promises, upon assumption of office, Governor Akpabio awarded contracts for the construction of those roads. To the glory of God, so far over 250 roads covering more than 900km have been constructed. Reputable companies like Julius Berger, Setraco, Stemco, Gitto alongside Indigenous Companies were in to handle the construction of these roads.
Aerial view of two of the three Concentric flyovers built by the Akpabio administration at Itam
The government of Chief (Dr) Godswill Akpabio, CON has invested enormously on roads infrastructural development. This is due to the realization that good roads network is a critical foundation for an emerging industrial economy during the seven years of the present administration, more than 310 (three hundred and ten) roads covering over 1300 kilometres have been constructed. These include; six federal roads and other inter and intra-city roads across the three senatorial districts of the state.
Highlights of achievements in this sector.
Before and after pictures of Etim Ekpo bridge
Well constructed paved and asphalted roads across the State where more than 250 roads spanning over 900km have emerged; with the installation of modern digital traffic lights in Uyo the State capital. Meanwhile contract has been awarded for the Uyo Urban renewal and regeneration project. Works are going on for dual carriageways for all roads into Uyo, the State capital; and Flyovers have been constructed at strategic locations to ease traffic in and around the capital city. Streets and traffic lights are now familiar features in the State. Equally, collapsed concrete bridges at Ikot Abiaenyie have been reconstructed; just as government has gone into the procurement of 1 grader each for the 31 LGAs of the State to ensure periodic maintenance of rural roads. This is a manner of instituting maintenance culture in the state.
The initiation and completion of the 3.7 km underground drainage project using pipe-jacking drainage technology.
Flood, particularly within the State capital has maintained incurable spirit where many of its settlements have been named after the state leaders. Indeed, it is not as though successive administrations have not been workings on solutions, but perhaps the failed to succeed because their solutions were not strong enough to tame the flood. Therefore the present administration has decided to embark on the construction of a N13.8 Billion underground drainage for flood and erosion control in the State capital city; a project that is already showing signs of defeating the ‘tempest’.
Leisure and tourism
The Rotunda of the Le Meridien Ibom Five Star Hotel & Golf Resort
The Le Meridien Ibom Hotel & Golf Resort has over 150 rooms. It has become one of the choice conference centers in Nigeria and has the best golf course in Africa, according to the World’s leading golf magazine, Golf Weekly.
I believe in continuity, when I came in I started to complete a lot of the ongoing projects that I met on ground. I completed the Le Meridien Hotel. I re-grassed and completed the golf course. I brought in international managers from London called IMG to manage the golf course. Today it is one of the best golf courses in Africa hosting international competitions.
Aerial view of the golf course at the Le Meridien
Ibom International Airport
Akwa Ibom International Airport (AKIA) is one of the landmark projects, which have attracted accolades to Governor Godswill Akpabio. The 3.6km runway is the longest in the country and is equipped with the latest aviation technologies, by global standards, had commenced daily commercial flights to Lagos and Abuja and international flight (i.e. the airlift of Christians on pilgrimage to the holy land) operations since 2009. It is designed to provide both passenger and cargo services as it can handle wide-body Boeing 747 aircraft. The Airport is about 30 km from the city center, is the newest and most modern airport in Nigeria. A Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility is being built as part of the facilities. The government is in discussions with international investors on the management of the facility.
Computer generated model of Terminal building of Ibom International airport under construction
The National Hanger/ Maintenance, Repairs and Overhaul (MRO) facilities are nearing completion, while Work has commenced on the building of the state-of-the-art main terminal building of the airport and another taxiway. So far the airport has become the fastest growing in the history of aviation in Nigeria. Ibom International Airport is first of its kind in West and Central Africa strategically located to serve the commercial interest of the Gulf of Guinea and big revenue earner for the state.
Aerial view of the airport overlooking the MRO, Runway, temporary terminal building and the flight tower.
State industrialization policy
Governor Akpabio’s administration is embarking on a holistic industrialization of the State through the establishment of at least one cottage industry in each of the 31 Local Government Areas in the State working in partnership with the private sector and financial institutions. Hear him;
The policy thrust of my administration centers around industrialization, so as to create employment opportunities for our children. We hope to establish one industry in each of the 31 local government areas in the state using the private-public-partnership model.
Industrial machinery
Already, an industrial development fund of N5 billion has been set up through the Bank of Industries. Several stakeholders’ fora have been held and expressions of interest received and processed for the possible take off of approved industries.
Targeted small and medium scale industries are:
- Cassava/Potato starch production
- Edible Oil production
- Sea-food
- Raffia Palm processing
- Animal feed production
- Fertilizer production
- Wood waste processing
- Production of sanitary wares
- Egg-bed packaging
- Detergent/Soap production
- Ice-block making
- Bottling of water juice, oil
- UPVC window/doors production
- UPVC pipefittings production
- Cement concrete block production
- Corrugated paperboard production for cartons
Sports development
Since 2007 when the government of Chief Akpabio came on board, Akwa Ibom has established its presence in sports by winning laurels in many national and international events. Apart from handsome financial rewards as motivations, government ensures adequate preparations of its athletes for competitions.
To fast-track youth and sports development in the state, the administration had embarked on the renovation of Uyo sports stadium to provide facilities for preparation of athletes for better outings at national and international competitions.
Computer generated model of the Olympic sized stadium.
Although, the Uyo Township Stadium has been rehabilitated, the administration is also constructing a 30,000 capacity Olympic-size international stadium and a comprehensive sports park in the state capital. It would be a one stop sports arena with up-to-date sports facilities, outdoor and indoor facilities. Design and other preliminary works on the projects are in top gear. The project will be delivered by September, 2014. The new stadium will further boost sports development in the State and equally attract major national and international sporting events to the state.
Security
The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Chief Godswill Akpabio has put in place measures to manage internal security in the state. This is exemplified in the following:
Security apparatus: (1) Gun boat. (2) Utility vehicles. (3) Armed Personnel Carriers
• Setting up of Operation thunder & Quick Response Squad for maximum security.
• Donation of gun boats to the Nigerian Navy to check maritime crime
• Investment of over 300 vehicles, Armed Personnel Carriers, to the Police and other security outfits in the state.
• Donation of communication gadgets such as: walkie talkies, VHR radios, CCTV, PABX intercom, scanning equipment and monitoring satellites to security agencies to enhance capabilities.
• Donation of gun boats to the Nigerian Navy to check maritime crime
• Investment of over 300 vehicles, Armed Personnel Carriers, to the Police and other security outfits in the state.
• Donation of communication gadgets such as: walkie talkies, VHR radios, CCTV, PABX intercom, scanning equipment and monitoring satellites to security agencies to enhance capabilities.
The state Governor’s interest in the security of state is predicated in his belief that:
The enviable position we occupy in the Niger Delta region must be sustained at all cost. This is the only way in which the much needed investors with the multiplier effects of mass job opportunities can be encouraged.
Towards food security
Agriculture is one of the most critical sectors of our economy. This of course is in line with the UN and global trend which prescribes that attention be shifted from oil to agrarian economy. This new focus is derived from the global findings that the entire world may soon face hunger and starvation as global food stock, which is not in any way significant, may soon run dry. In line with this, Governor Godswill Akpabio has initiated various programmes to boost Agriculture and food production and also empower women agro farms and agro traders.
These include:
Agricultural produce – Cassava plantation and Palm kernel
- The introduction of Women Agro Entrepreneurship Development Programme WAEDEP with the first and second batches of 4500 and 2000 women receiving interest free loan of N250,000 each for agro businesses.
- Approval of N11 billion was also given for the accelerated livestock and fish production programme (ALFIPP). Within the same period a total of 3000 youths were trained and empowered with N500,000.00 each under the Integrated Farmers Scheme
- A total of 180,000 metric tons of food storage and processing infrastructures at Abak were also procured under the Akwa Ibom State Reserve Food Programme, while over 26,000 metric tons of assorted fertilizer at 60percent subsidy were procured and distributed to farmers.
- College of Agriculture, Obio Akpa has been upgraded to a campus of the Akwa Ibom State University; with the acquisition of 72 farm tractors and implement to aid farmers in the State.
- The State government also gives strong support to externally funded programmes, such as Fadama, community based natural resources management programme (CBNRMP), IFAD- assisted rural finance institution building programme (RUFIN) and World Bank/ Federal Government of Nigeria poverty alleviation programmes.
- The administration has so far generated over 4,000 jobs for Akwa Ibom people under the commercial agriculture programme and also generated additional 1,500 direct employment opportunities through its various programmes and projects.
Urban Development
Gradually, the government is touching all sectors of the economy and successfully fenced off all grounds for possible youth restiveness experienced in other states. Because this administration believes that a healthy citizenry is a wealthy society, management of central abattoir and institution of Akwa Ibom Meat Hygiene/ Van Project is also of top priority. The State government has already entered into partnership with the Federal Government of Nigeria for the on-going Itu irrigation, drainage and flood control project which is aimed at developing up to 2,000 hectares of land for an all-year-round Agricultural production.
To ensure that farm produce are preserved for enduring benefits the government has equally gone into partnership with the Federal Government for the on-going construction of 25,000 metric ton grain storage silos in Ibiono Ibom Local Government. Approval has already been obtained for Agricultural Extension Service Providers in which 275 Akwa Ibom Youth are to be recruited; just as three cassava processing centres are established at Nung Udoe, Ikot Okudom and Ikot Ekang in Ibesikpo Asutan, Eket and Abak Local Government Areas respectively.
Rural development projects
Governor Godswill Akpabio’s integrated approach to rural development has resulted in the execution of over 5,000 projects across the 329 wards of the State. With the opening up of roads, provision of potable water and linking of almost all the parts of the State to the national grid, development has been brought home to many rural communities.
Construction of 2-Bedroom Semi-Detached quarters. Community pry. sch. Akpayak Ikpe, ini LGA
This integrated approach, which has given a new lease of life to rural dwellers, is anchored on the Inter- Ministerial Direct Labour Agency, a government initiative that identifies and executes projects, based on peculiar needs of each rural community in the state. This projects range from classrooms, rural water supply, rural electrification, community markets to health facilities and many more. Other establishments of government that are also involved in interpreting the rural development vision of Governor Akpabio are the Ministry of Rural Development, and Akwa Ibom Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (AKRUWATSAN). Given the passion with which Governor Akpabio is pursuing development in the rural areas, it is envisaged that by 2015, every community in Akwa Ibom would have been properly integrated into the 21st Century by every indices of development.
Boreholes like these have been constructed in rural communities
To complement the establishment of industries in all the 31 Local government Areas in the State, the administration of Chief Godswill Akpabio is promoting Rural Economic Empowerment by aggressively financing and encouraging the creation of micro, small and medium scale enterprises particularly in the agro-allied sectors. This explains why the administration is aggressively putting in place the support infrastructure such as uninterrupted power supply, good roads network and water supply.
The rural people have already taken full advantage of this by establishing small scale enterprises such as barbing & hair dressing saloon, welding workshops, viewing centers, electronic appliances repair shops etc. Through the women in agriculture project (WAEDEP), 4500 women have been trained and empowered with N250,000 each for commercial agriculture while over 3000 youth have been trained and empowered with N500,000 each under the integrated Farmers scheme.
Housing and Urban renewal
One of the basic necessities of man is shelter and Governor Godswill Akpabio is vigorously tackling the housing needs of the people. As a promise keeper, he has kept to his avowed pledge of providing modern and affordable houses for the people of the State. In line with this, work is ongoing on the construction of 10,000 modern and affordable houses to the Akwa Ibom populace.
New Banquet Hall at the Govt House
Aerial view of the 500 mass housing estate at Idu Uruan
Other major achievements in this sector include:
• State-of the-art Governor’s Lodge complex completed within 16 months
• 310 prime-unit mini estates at 10 per local government in all the local government areas mainly for local government chieftains. The project is undertaken through the State/Local Government Joint Account Committee.
• First class banquet hall at the Government House
• Housing over 2,000 units built in Eket, Uyo and Ikot Ekpene
• Remodeling of Uyo and Ikot Ekpene Urban city
• 310 prime-unit mini estates at 10 per local government in all the local government areas mainly for local government chieftains. The project is undertaken through the State/Local Government Joint Account Committee.
• First class banquet hall at the Government House
• Housing over 2,000 units built in Eket, Uyo and Ikot Ekpene
• Remodeling of Uyo and Ikot Ekpene Urban city
Major Economic Infrastructure
Some of the major Economic Infrastructure are:
• An International Airport with MRO facility and 3.6km International Standard Runway
• A 160 rooms Five Star Hotel facility Ibom Le Meridien and Golf Resort with 18 hole golf course, the largest in West Africa
• Ibom Independent Power Plant – phase I with 191 megawatt power storage
• Independent Power Plant – phase II with 494 megawatt (ongoing)
• Power Plant of 61 megawatt power storage at Oku Iboku, Itu
• Good road network
• Strong telecommunication network with 6 GSM Operators
• A deep seaport with an inland harbour at Ibaka
• Ibom Oil and Gas Industrial Processing City (ongoing)
• Tropicana Entertainment Centre – Uyo
• Power Plant of 61 megawatt power storage at Oku Iboku, Itu
• Good road network
• Strong telecommunication network with 6 GSM Operators
• A deep seaport with an inland harbour at Ibaka
• Ibom Oil and Gas Industrial Processing City (ongoing)
• Tropicana Entertainment Centre – Uyo
• 30,000 capacity Ultra-Modern Olympic Size Stadium (on-going).
• A 160 rooms Five Star Hotel facility Ibom Le Meridien and Golf Resort with 18 hole golf course, the largest in West Africa
• Ibom Independent Power Plant – phase I with 191 megawatt power storage
• Independent Power Plant – phase II with 494 megawatt (ongoing)
• Power Plant of 61 megawatt power storage at Oku Iboku, Itu
• Good road network
• Strong telecommunication network with 6 GSM Operators
• A deep seaport with an inland harbour at Ibaka
• Ibom Oil and Gas Industrial Processing City (ongoing)
• Tropicana Entertainment Centre – Uyo
• Power Plant of 61 megawatt power storage at Oku Iboku, Itu
• Good road network
• Strong telecommunication network with 6 GSM Operators
• A deep seaport with an inland harbour at Ibaka
• Ibom Oil and Gas Industrial Processing City (ongoing)
• Tropicana Entertainment Centre – Uyo
• 30,000 capacity Ultra-Modern Olympic Size Stadium (on-going).
GDP:
Akwa Ibom State GDP is estimated in 2013 at US $13.704 billion. It is a growing economy in the Gulf of Guinea with huge opportunities in oil and gas, maritime, aviation development, agriculture, solid minerals, lumbering and foods. Actual computation of GDP for the year is being.
Akwa Ibom State GDP is estimated in 2013 at US $13.704 billion. It is a growing economy in the Gulf of Guinea with huge opportunities in oil and gas, maritime, aviation development, agriculture, solid minerals, lumbering and foods. Actual computation of GDP for the year is being.
Growth Rate:
Akwa Ibom State Average Growth Rate (2005 – 2012) was estimated to be 8.82% higher than the Nigerian Average Growth Rate of 6.82% by 2.0%.
Akwa Ibom State Average Growth Rate (2005 – 2012) was estimated to be 8.82% higher than the Nigerian Average Growth Rate of 6.82% by 2.0%.
Per capita Income:
As at 2012, the per capita income of Akwa Ibom State was estimated at be $2,779.
As at 2012, the per capita income of Akwa Ibom State was estimated at be $2,779.
The stadium project as at January 2014
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