Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has announced an N800 million empowerment package for non-indigenous residents in the state, including Igbo, Hausa, Yoruba, and other Niger Delta communities. The governor said the initiative reflects his administration’s commitment to unity, inclusivity, and equal opportunity for all residents regardless of ethnic background.
Governor Eno made the disclosure while speaking at the Igbo Unity Day Celebration organised by the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Akwa Ibom State Chapter, held at Ibom Hall, Uyo.
He explained that many non-indigenes in the state, particularly members of the Igbo community, were born and raised in Akwa Ibom and have contributed greatly to the development of the state economically through their businesses. He commended the Igbo leadership for promoting unity, aligning with the administration’s peace-driven agenda.
A native of Enugu State, the governor hailed the Igbo entrepreneurial spirit as exemplary.
“The Igbo people here are part of our social fabric; they have added value to our community through their remarkable spirit of industry and brotherhood,” he said.
He said it has increasingly become a hub of cultural harmony, expressing appreciation for the deliberate attention the government has paid to peace, security, and hospitality.
Governor Eno pledged sustained partnership with all non-indigenous communities, provided they uphold peace, obey the law, and avoid criminal activity. The state president of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Hon. Kayceey Chidiadi, commended Governor Eno’s all-inclusive leadership, stating that his style paved the way for restored unity among the Igbo people following decades of internal division. He equally appreciated the governor for appointing Igbo people into state government positions-a privilege the Igbo people had not had since the state was created. Chidiadi assured the governor that the community would give him full support for his re-election, and also stand with President Bola Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
