Edet Ikotidem
Since May 2023, the Akwa Ibom State Government has demonstrated a robust commitment to infrastructural development and the empowerment of its youth population.
With the allocation of over N208.16 billion toward road projects and the launch of the Arise Youth Employment Portal, the administration of Governor Umo Eno seeks to improve the economic prospects of the state by addressing key challenges such as poor road infrastructure and unemployment.
Akwa Ibom Government’s Commitment to Infrastructure
The government’s allocation of N208.16 billion has funded both inherited and new projects. While N47.93 billion was directed toward the completion of 36 inherited FGPC projects, the administration also invested N4.04 billion into 51 Emergency Intervention Projects.
These investments are aimed at improving the overall infrastructure landscape of the state, which is expected to stimulate economic growth by easing transportation and improving access to different parts of Akwa Ibom.
In addition to completing ongoing projects, Governor Umo Eno’s administration has embarked on 61 new projects, many of which are at various stages of completion.
A significant portion of the state’s road network has already been completed, and eight major ARISE Agenda projects are now set for commissioning. These include:
- The 6.97km Ukpana-Akpabom-Ikwe road with a 30m span bridge (ONNA and Mkpat Enin LGAs).
- The 3.6km Ikot Obio Offong-Nung Ukana Road (Ibesikpo Asutan LGA).
- The 10.519km Mkpat Enin-Ikot Ubo-Ikot Ntot-Nkikara Road (Mkpat Enin/Ikot Abasi LGA).
- The 22.75km Ikot Ekaide-Ikot Okoro-Ibritam Road with two bridges (Oruk Anam LGA).
These road projects are vital for connecting local communities, enhancing access to markets, and improving the ease of doing business. The government’s commitment to road development is expected to have a far-reaching impact on the state’s economy, particularly by facilitating trade and movement within the state.
While the state government has made considerable progress, certain projects, such as the Tabernacle Road, have faced delays due to environmental challenges. According to Prof. Eno Ibanga, the Commissioner for Works and Fire Service, persistent rainfall in the state has significantly hindered the deep excavation work required for the Tabernacle Road.
The road needs an excavation depth of at least 11 meters, and the continuous rainfall, without the usual August break, has slowed down the process.
Ibanga noted that attempting to proceed with the excavation during heavy rains could compromise the safety and quality of the project, leading to potential accidents or substandard road delivery.
To mitigate the inconvenience caused by the delay, the government awarded contracts for the construction of alternative routes, including Uyo Village Road and Ikpa Road, both of which are expected to alleviate traffic and provide alternative access points for commuters.
The delay in completing the Tabernacle Road has sparked frustration among residents, particularly those who regularly use the road.
Many have voiced their concerns about the inconvenience caused by the diversion of traffic to alternative routes. In response, Prof. Ibanga appealed for public patience, reiterating that the government is working to ensure the safety and quality of the road infrastructure.
The Commissioner also cautioned against the unauthorized installation of speed breakers and other road features by residents, as such additions could cause early damage to the roads.
He urged the public to consult the Ministry of Works with their concerns and requests, assuring them that the government would address their needs through official channels.
While the government has been working to improve infrastructure, it is also taking significant steps to address youth unemployment.
Also read: Gov. Umo Eno Assures Army of Continuous Support, Declares Opens Chief of Army Staff Conference
The launch of the Arise Youth Employment Portal is a key part of Governor Umo Eno’s strategy to empower the youth of Akwa Ibom. The portal will serve as an online platform where unemployed and underemployed youths can register for employment opportunities and access various training programs.
The portal will provide a database of skilled young individuals for both the public and private sectors to access when recruiting for job opportunities. In addition to facilitating employment, the portal will be used to recruit youths into the civil service and other empowerment schemes such as the Ibom Community Watch.
It is also expected to streamline recruitment into the Dakkada Skill Acquisition Training Programmes and other state-sponsored employment initiatives.
The dual focus on infrastructure development and youth empowerment reflects the government’s holistic approach to economic growth.
By investing in road infrastructure, the state aims to improve connectivity, ease transportation, and foster business growth.
At the same time, the Arise Youth Employment Portal will help address one of the most pressing challenges facing the state—youth unemployment—by providing a pathway to gainful employment for thousands of young people.
The platform’s virtual launch will include participation from key government officials and select stakeholders. The launch signals the government’s commitment to addressing unemployment and equipping young people with the skills needed to contribute to the state’s economic development.
Governor Umo Eno’s administration has also appealed to private companies operating in Akwa Ibom to utilize the Arise Youth Employment Portal for their recruitment needs.
By working in partnership with the private sector, the state government aims to expand employment opportunities for young people and ensure that the skills acquired through the state’s training programs are aligned with the needs of the labor market.
The collaboration between the state government and the private sector is expected to create a pipeline of skilled workers who can fill positions in both government and industry, contributing to the state’s overall economic growth.
As the state continues to invest in infrastructure and human capital development, the administration of Governor Umo Eno is setting the stage for long-term growth.
The combined efforts to improve road infrastructure, enhance connectivity, and empower the youth through employment and skills training will position Akwa Ibom for sustained economic success.
In the coming months, the government’s focus will likely remain on completing ongoing infrastructure projects, addressing environmental challenges that cause delays, and fully operationalizing the Arise Youth Employment Portal.
These initiatives are expected to have a lasting impact on the state’s development trajectory, improving the quality of life for residents and creating new opportunities for economic growth.
