By Mary Emmanuel
The Akwa Ibom Governor, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, has expressed his commitment to partnering with the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) to realize the objectives of his ARISE Agenda.
Governor Eno acknowledged the crucial role played by the NSE during the gubernatorial election and reiterated his commitment to engaging indigenous Engineers in road construction projects.
This affirmation took place on Friday, February 9, as Gov. Eno received the National Executive Council of the NSE during a courtesy visit at the Old Exco Chambers, Government House, Uyo.
Represented by his deputy, Senator (Dr.) Akon Eyakenyi, Gov. Eno emphasized the significance of the engineering profession, highlighting its importance in various developmental projects.
Pastor Eno commended the outstanding work of Engr. of Hensek Integrated Service, an indigenous contractor and NSE member, for consistently delivering high-quality projects on time.
Governor Eno underscored the pivotal role of engineers in development, particularly in road constructions, and emphasized the importance of keeping money circulating within Akwa Ibom State.
The Governor praised Engr. Uwem Okoko for showcasing timely delivery and quality work, comparable to Julius Berger standards, contributing to the state’s development.
Governor Eno outlined his vision to stimulate the state’s economy by encouraging indigenous participation and urged local engineers to deliver quality work promptly to attract more opportunities.
He emphasized his commitment to mentoring young engineers through Engr. Uwem Okoko, the Managing Director of Hensek Integrated Services, fostering growth within the state.
Governor Eno announced the involvement of NSE members in the Songhai Farm initiative and affirmed their participation in the overall construction of the state.
The Governor congratulated Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntola, the first female National President of the NSE, for breaking barriers and commended her for choosing Akwa Ibom as the location for the NSE retreat.
Pastor Umo Eno stressed that Engr. Oguntola’s leadership should surpass her predecessor’s, highlighting her appointment as a result of divine intervention.
The Governor praised Akwa Ibom’s suitability for the NSE retreat, offering a peaceful environment for insightful discussions and decisions over the next two years.
The National President of the NSE, Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntola, expressed gratitude for hosting their team at the first Leadership Retreat organized by her administration.
Engr. Oguntola highlighted the substantial representation of NSE branches in Akwa Ibom, indicating the state’s strong support for engineering development.
She commended Governor Eno for implementing the Grade Level 9 Entry Point for Engineers, positioning Akwa Ibom as one of the first states to adopt the order.
Engr. Oguntola applauded the Governor for enhancing the welfare of Engineers in government employ and involving them in state projects, contributing meaningfully to Akwa Ibom’s development.
She praised the Governor for supporting the growth of Engr. Uwem Okoko and Hensek Integrated Services, acknowledging their impactful contributions.
Engr. Oguntola expressed amazement at the projects handled by Hensek Integrated Services and thanked the Governor for providing an enabling environment for engineers to thrive.
She appealed to Governor Eno to assist the NSE in upskilling and training more engineers in the state, emphasizing the importance of local development.
Engr. Oguntola stressed the need to encourage young people in the Sciences, Mathematics, and technology, urging the Governor’s support in completing the State NSE Secretariat as an Engineering Resource Center.
The visit concluded with the presentation of a plaque to Governor Umo Eno by Engr. Margaret Oguntola, marking the highpoint of the NSE’s visit.
