Since 2012, the Akwa Ibom State Government has paid retired civil officials more than N82 billion in emoluments and inherited gratuities totaling N111 billion.
Umo Eno, the state governor, made this announcement in his Easter broadcast on Sunday, stating that his administration is still dedicated to fulfilling his campaign pledge to pay off all gratuity commitments before the conclusion of his first term.
“Out of the N111 billion we inherited as gratuities and other emoluments of our retirees since 2012, we have already paid over N82 billion, and we are still on track to clear the backlog, ideally before the conclusion of our first term in office.
“I’m pleased to report that we are keeping the campaign promise we made,” Eno stated.
The governor also used the occasion to showcase his ARISE Agenda scorecard, revealing that since taking office in 2023, his administration has started building 1,300 kilometers of roads, including both inherited projects and ones he started and finished.
He went on to say that during the most recent Executive Council meeting, an additional 167 kilometers of roads were approved, highlighting the fact that every local government area has been impacted by the projects, which include feeder roads, general hospitals, model primary schools, model primary healthcare facilities, and road construction.
More than 1,300 kilometers of roads have been built since we took office in 2023; some were inherited, while others were initiated and finished by our government.
We approved an extra 167 kilometers of state-wide roadways at our most recent EXCO meeting. During the festivities commemorating our third year in power, some of the continuing roadways will be put into service, he stated.
“Today, we boldly state that we have touched every local government area in this state with roads, model primary healthcare centers, model primary schools, feeder roads, general hospitals like the one in Ukanafun, and others currently under construction,” he declared.
Drawing inspiration from the Easter theme of hope, Eno acknowledged difficulties but reassured everyone that they would all be conquered.
“Let me reassure you, my dear people, that no matter what we are up against, we will rise together and conquer our obstacles.
“Just as the Resurrected Christ offered salvation, hope, and redemption, we shall keep working hard to enhance our people’s welfare and well-being.
“Hope and faith in the ennobling ideals of a Christ-centered government we had promised you will define our future,” he declared.
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