Iniobong Ekong Resumes Office As Commissioner, Vows To Recover Govt Lands

WEDNESDAY February 26, 2025 |TheNewsDESK
www.thenewsdesk.ng

By Itoro BASSEY

Capt. Iniobong Ekong, the newly appointed Commissioner for Lands and Town Planning in Akwa Ibom State, officially resumed his duties on Wednesday, February 26, pledging to reclaim all government lands regardless of who may be involved.

In his address at the occasion, Capt. Ekong emphasised his determination not to cede even a fraction of government land to fraudsters, speculators, or anyone colluding with ministry personnel, saying that such attempts would be futile.

Arriving at the ministry at exactly 9 a.m., Ekong was warmly welcomed by the permanent secretary in the ministry and other members of staff who were visibly cheerful and elated as they expressed their eagerness to collaborate with him during his tenure.

During a meeting with the staff shortly after his arrival, Capt. Ekong urged them to embrace their roles with integrity and selflessness, while aligning their efforts with the Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda.

The Commissioner called on his team to remain vigilant in monitoring land usage compliance within the state.

“Every piece of land has a designated purpose—some for residential, others for commercial, industrial, or miscellaneous uses,” he stated.

“We will ensure strict adherence to these designations to prevent our state from becoming a slum.”

Ekong highlighted that under Governor Umo Eno’s leadership, Akwa Ibom is rapidly becoming a preferred destination for investors, tourists, and families seeking a peaceful environment.

“Our goal is to create a welcoming atmosphere that fulfills their aspirations,” he added.

Returning to the ministry for the third time as Commissioner, Ekong promised to implement a land administration system that is both user-friendly and conducive to the socio-economic development of the state.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Emmanuel Iton praised Capt. Ekong as a “golden fish” with no hiding place, noting his amiable yet firm leadership style and his commitment to the common people.

Iton assured Capt. Ekong that the staff would provide all necessary support for his success.

As the ministry’s choir performed a stirring welcome song, staff members Mr. Inyang Hillary Inyang and Mr. Effiong Akpan conveyed their goodwill messages, even as they reaffirmed their dedication to Capt. Ekong’s leadership and the administration of Governor.