Wednesday August 6, 2025
The NewsDESK |
By Micheal Joseph OKON
In a bold departure from the status quo, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has demonstrated his commitment to prudent governance and innovative thinking by focusing on pressing needs at home rather than attend the 38th AKISAN Convention in Arlington, Virginia in person. Instead, he has opted to send a small delegation of five persons, led by Mrs. Helen Obareki and Commissioner Aniekan Umanah, to represent the state government. This decision is a testament to the governor’s focus on fiscal responsibility and his determination to allocate resources judiciously.
Gone are the days of wasteful spending on large entourages to AKISAN conventions with little or nothing to show for such often politically motivated visits. Governor Eno’s approach marks a significant shift towards responsible leadership, where resources are allocated based on merit and impact rather than mere spectacle. This new direction is a welcome development, and it is hoped that future leaders will follow suit.
At the AKISAN Convention, Governor Eno will make a compelling case for the organization to host its 2025 convention in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. This bold move would not only showcase the state’s tourism potential but also provide a platform for the governor to pitch his administration’s achievements in tourism development. The governor’s vision for Akwa Ibom State as a tourism hub is evident in projects like Arise Resorts, a mini-Disneyland, and other major developments that are set to transform the state’s economy.
The governor’s emphasis on backward integration is a strategic move to tap into the wealth of expertise and resources available in the diaspora community. He will urge AKISAN members to utilize their skills and expertise to advance Akwa Ibom State’s growth and promote the state’s tourism potential. This approach is in line with best practices globally, where diaspora communities play a crucial role in driving economic growth and development in their countries of origin.
It’s worth noting that other diaspora communities, such as those from China, India, and Japan, have successfully leveraged their presence in the United States to tap into wealth and expertise, which they have used to drive growth and development in their home countries. AKISAN can learn from these examples and do more with impactful presence in the state.
Governor Eno’s leadership style is a testament to his commitment to the growth and development of Akwa Ibom State. His administration’s emphasis on frugality and prudence in managing state resources is a welcome development, and it is hoped that this approach will yield dividends in the long run.
The governor’s decision to redeem his pledge of $5,000 to the winner of a competition among young people who can best speak the Ibibio language is a demonstration of his commitment to promoting the state’s culture and heritage. This gesture is a testament to his administration’s focus on investing in the state’s human capital and promoting its rich cultural heritage.
AKISAN must take a cue from Governor Eno’s vision and do more to support the state’s growth and development. By working closely with the state government, AKISAN can help drive economic growth, promote tourism, and advance the state’s interests globally.
Looking ahead, Governor Umo Eno’s forward-thinking approach to diaspora engagement is a game-changer for Akwa Ibom State. His emphasis on prudent governance, backward integration, and impactful presence in the state is a roadmap for sustainable growth and development. AKISAN and other stakeholders must join hands with the governor to realize this vision and put Akwa Ibom State on the path to greatness.
* ObongUnwana Okon who is the Convener of TINUBU UMO ENO SUPPORT ORGANIZATION, writes from Ituk Mbang in Uruan Local Government Area
