293 indigenes of Ukanafun and Oruk Anam Local Government Areas smiled home on Tuesday with sundry support schemes ranging from cash grants to equipment for business support and vehicles.
The event was a town square meeting convened by Governor Umo Eno for the people of Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency at QIC Central School, Ikot Akpa Nkuk, Ukanafun Local Government Area.
Of the beneficiaries, 89 traders from Ukanafun Local Government received ₦47,450,000, while 65 traders from Oruk Anam received ₦38,600,000. Additionally, 68 persons from Ukanafun and 63 from Oruk Anam benefited from the ARISE Equipment Support Scheme.
Two people from each of the two local government areas received five million naira each under the ARISE Business Grant, while four others received two cars and two mini buses.
Governor Umo Eno, who was received by a large and colourful crowd of supporters at the arena, charged the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the grants, stating that his administration was committed to ensuring that people were trained and equipped to be valuable to both society and themselves.
“I thank Oruk Anam/Ukanafun for the reception and warm welcome they have given all of us.
“As we go around, we see that the momentum is increasing from federal constituency to federal constituency; the welcome is just great.”
The Governor said the town square meeting was an avenue for him to meet and interact with the people on their needs.
“We need to move back to the people from time to time to see them. It’s not only during elections that we should come and see you.
“We also have to come and see you in the course of governance—to check your well-being, to listen to you, and to tell you what we have done.
“This is the fourth federal constituency; we have six more to go, and we will finish all in time for the budget department to be able to capture your needs in the 2026 budget.
“We will go through your requests and tell you the ones we have decided to do, based on the availability of funds.
“We might not be able to do all; whatever is left, we will add to subsequent budgets.
“We will always work with the people because this government is of the people, for the people, and by the people—so that all can enjoy this government.”
Presenting the needs document of the federal constituency, a former House of Representatives member, Chief Eno Akpan, said, “We have seen the remarkable things he has done. We have heard about his achievements, and we are confident that even greater things are yet to come.
“I have no doubt in my mind that the contents of this document will be fully reflected in the 2026 budget.
“As the first representative of this federal constituency, I assure you that our support is unwavering. It is a done deal.
“Therefore, on behalf of the Ukanafun Federal Constituency, we have outlined and proposed a number of key projects for your consideration in the 2026 budget.”
Chief Eno Akpan listed the projects to include roads, markets, and hospitals—all designed to meet the pressing needs of the area, which serves as a major economic hub and gateway to Abia and Rivers States.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the state ruling PDP, Elder Aniekan Akpan, affirmed the support of the elders for the Governor’s projects and programmes across party lines.
“You have united Akwa Ibom State, and our people are happier.
“No matter the River Jordan, we will cross every Jordan with you. You are doing well for the people of Akwa Ibom. That is why we are working with you.”
Elder Aniekan Akpan recalled that the PDP had earlier in the year endorsed the Governor for a second term and noted that since then, “Anywhere you go, you receive endorsements. Ukanafun is the home of endorsements.”
Goodwill messages were also received from the State Deputy Chairman of APC, Dr. David Umoessien; the Commissioner for Science and Digital Economy, Dr. Frank Ekpenyong; the Paramount Ruler of Ukanafun Local Government Area, Akuku Engr. Amos Akpan; and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Labour Matters, Sir Udo Kierian Akpan, who all described the Governor as a man committed to the well-being of the people of the state.
“Today, we have come out in large numbers to demonstrate our unwavering support and love for you. We assure you that we will stand solidly behind you in the upcoming 2027 election,” said Dr. Frank Ekpenyong.
“I am mandated, on behalf of the traditional rulers of Ukanafun and Oruk Anam, to thank you for all that you have done for the Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency. What I have seen today is that your work as the Governor of Akwa Ibom State is something everyone is a witness to.
“I really thank you for your work for the people of Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency. I say may the good Lord bless you,” the Ukanafun monarch affirmed.
Speaking on behalf of the two local government council chairmen, the Chairman of Oruk Anam said, “We extend our sincerest appreciation for the transformative impact you’ve had on the lives of the people of Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Constituency.
“Your leadership transcends mere governance; you are a shining star who has brought hope, progress, and prosperity to our community. Your selfless dedication to the welfare of our people has earned you immense love and support, evident in the overwhelming turnout of our citizens to back your initiatives.”
Reacting to these, the Deputy State Chairman of APC, Dr. Umoessien, said the leadership style of Pastor Umo Eno endears him to all, and pledged the support of his party to the Governor’s re-election.
Earlier, while setting the tone, the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, commended the Governor for the numerous appointments and projects. He added that the federal constituency was home to “your campaigner-in-chief, Dr. Mrs. Martha Udom Emmanuel; your party chairman, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Akpan; your chief delivery advisor, Mr. Aniefiok Johnson; and several others.”
“So I am not surprised that when we got here, the crowd was this massive.”
Prince Uwah noted that the Governor was also in Ukanafun to continue his trajectory of empowerment for farmers, traders, and entrepreneurs.
“Your Excellency, just as we have done in other federal constituencies, we are here today in Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency.
“Ukanafun Federal Constituency, thank you so much for your support. Before the election, you supported us. During the election, we got your vote. After the election, up till now, we are continuing to give you the national aid. Thank you for your support.”
Highpoint of the event was the endorsement of Governor Eno for a second term following a motion moved by the House of Representatives member, Unyime Idem, and seconded by House of Assembly Deputy Chief Whip, Sampson Idiong.
