Governor Umo Eno is leading Akwa Ibom towards economic transformation, reducing dependence on oil revenue through entrepreneurial development, agriculture, and SME support under his ARISE Agenda.
A major step in this shift was the launch of the ARISE Entrepreneurial Equipment Support Scheme on March 11, 2025, which empowered over 2,000 entrepreneurs with 10,000 equipment sets and cash prizes for academic excellence.
Under the scheme, tailors received modern sewing machines, barbers got advanced grooming tools, shoemakers were equipped with automated machinery, and transport operators received 77 mini-buses and 31 saloon cars.
In a move to promote academic excellence, Governor Eno awarded ₦10 million to Edidiong Essien, who scored 8 A’s in WAEC 2023, a full scholarship to Dr. Joseph Akpan for a Master’s degree abroad, and ₦15 million to five students who won the Singapore-Bilateral International School Debate.
Governor Eno has also launched the Ibom-LED program, training 1,500 entrepreneurs and recently providing ₦500,000 business capital to 400 female youths.
The Governor’s fiscal policy focuses on wealth creation rather than indiscriminate spending, ensuring long-term economic sustainability. He affirmed that his legacy would be defined by the number of lives positively impacted rather than just physical infrastructure.
Through agriculture, entrepreneurship, and skill development, his administration is laying the foundation for a post-oil Akwa Ibom, fostering an economically diversified future.
