By Rt Hon. Eseme Eyiboh
Akwa Ibom State, created on September 23, 1987, by the military administration of General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida, was the outcome of years of agitation by the people of the mainland part of the former Cross River State.
Since its creation, the state has been administered by 11 leaders, including Tunde Ogbeha (1987–1988), Godwin Abbe (1988–1990), Idongesit Nkanga (1990–1992), Akpan Isemin (1992–1994), Yakubu Bako (1994–1996), Joseph Adeusi (1996–1998), John Ebiye (1998–1999), Victor Attah (1999–2007), Godswill Akpabio (2007–2015), Udom Emmanuel (2015–2023), and the current governor, Pastor Umo Eno (2023–date).
Over the years, Akwa Ibom has recorded significant achievements in growth and opportunities, with each administration contributing to the state’s growth and development. As Nigeria’s leading oil-producing state, with an output of about 504,000 barrels per day, Akwa Ibom generates billions of naira into the nation’s coffer in revenue from crude exports monthly.
Governor Umo Eno, through the implementation of his ARISE Agenda, is consolidating on past achievements by driving agricultural revolution, rural transformation, infrastructural renewal, security enhancement, and educational advancement. His vision to diversify the economy aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, creating opportunities for greater federal collaboration and investment in the state.
A notable political development in recent times is the decision of the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio—an uncommon development czar and illustrious son of the state—to extend an olive branch to Governor Eno. This gesture, embraced by the governor, has fostered reconciliation across political divides, ushering in a new era of peace and non-partisanship. This has unarguably triggered development governance and historic pursuit of people-driven progress.
Unlike in the past, when friction between federal appointees, legislators, and state executives slowed progress, both leaders have chosen the path of statesmanship and reconciliation in pursuit of the Akwa Ibom dream envisioned by its forebears.
The new political atmosphere has significantly reduced rivalries and bridged ethnic divides among the Ibibio, Annang, and Oron, uniting the people under a shared vision of progress. Today, unity is prioritized beyond party lines, and partnership is placed above partisanship.
This evolving political narrative in Akwa Ibom is a testament to the inclusive leadership of Senator Akpabio and Governor Eno. Their collaboration reflects maturity, responsibility, and a deep commitment to building an inclusive state where all voices contribute to shared prosperity.
Today,as Akwa Ibom marks its 38th anniversary, the prevailing climate of peace and cooperation is expected to accelerate development, enhance political stability, and position the state as a model of unity and growth in Nigeria. Happy Birthday Akwa Ibom State!
Rt Hon Eseme Eyiboh is the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity and Official Spokesperson to the President of the Senate.
