As part of my commitment to encouraging a conducive learning environment and quality education of our people, I commissioned and handed over an academic block, which I built, to Maurid College of Nursing Science, Mbiaso, Nsit Ibom local government area, during its maiden matriculation ceremony of 300 students, where I served as chairman on the occasion, yesterday.

I also promised to install solar-powered lightings around the institution's premises to ensure security of the students and property at night.

I used the opportunity to charge the prospective healthcare professionals to focus on their studies, so that upon graduation, they will fill the manpower gap created in the health sector by migration of other professionals for greener pastures.

Part of my address to them reads; "Your journey to becoming healthcare professionals is a call to service and humanity. This is further buttressed in the popular maxim that "health is wealth." This is in line with Harvey S. Firestone's philosophy that "the growth and development of people is the highest calling of leadership."

"This quote has consistently guided my life and activities both in private and public service. It is the propelling force behind my mega empowerment, scholarship, bursary, skill acquisition, facilitation of jobs in strategic Federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and foreign trainings to Akwa Ibom people."

"Also, the newly completed edifice, which shall be commissioned and donated to the institution today, is my modest effort to encourage this massive investment and, most especially, to ensure you get a conducive learning environment."

"These efforts are aimed at raising Akwa Ibom men and women who are stable enough to compete favourably with their counterparts globally."

Worthy of commendation is the Chairman of Maurid Group of Schools, Dr. Godwin Umontuen, for his foresight and investment in education, and for being a true patriot who cares about the development of the state and country.

His massive investment is interwoven with love and patriotism for the country at the centre. It is selfless, with clear intention to train and equip health professionals needed to provide healthcare services for mankind.

STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE

ATIKU ABUBAKAR'S LATEST CLAIMS ARE BASELESS AND DISTRACTING

The attention of the Presidency has been drawn to the unfounded allegations made by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who claims to be the subject of an EFCC investigation regarding unsubstantiated financial dealings involving Lagos State.



These claims, circulated through his media office, are false and reflect a troubling pattern of relying on social media gossip over substance. It is disheartening that a politician of Atiku's stature would lend credibility to baseless social media speculation to remain politically relevant.



President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains focused on addressing critical national challenges and advancing his administration's agenda for Nigeria's growth and stability. The President has neither the time nor the inclination to engage in petty political distractions.



Atiku's allegations are infantile and a transparent ploy to deflect from his political setbacks. His repeated attempts to drag the Presidency and now the Lagos State Government into fabricated controversies reveal a desperate bid for attention amid his fading attempt to cobble a coalition.



Since his defeat in the 2023 presidential election, the former Vice President has failed to rise to the dignified role of an elder statesman. Rather than contributing constructively to the national discourse, he has chosen the path of divisive rhetoric and unfounded accusations.



We urge Atiku Abubakar to redirect his energy toward initiatives that foster unity, economic progress, and democratic stability—qualities Nigeria urgently needs.



Lastly, the former Vice President should know that the EFCC, as an independent institution, operates within its statutory mandate without external influence. Any insinuation otherwise is a disservice to the agency's professionalism and the rule of law.



The Presidency remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the pursuit of national development—priorities that demand our undivided attention.



Bayo Onanuga

Special Adviser to the President

GOV ENO CELEBRATES HUMILITY GLORY MISSION, FOUNDER, ON 35 YEARS OF IMPACTFUL MISSION

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has felicitated with The Humility Glory Mission, and its President and Founder, Rev Dr. Sylvia Imoh, on the successful hosting of the church's 34th annual Convention and 35 years of impactful gospel mission.

The Governor extended his felicitation at the closing service of the Convention which had as theme: "I am Unstoppable," held at Blazing Glory Prayer Camp Ground, Nsit Ibom Local Government Area.

He expressed gratitude to God for the lives which God has used the mission to transform in the 35 years of its existence.

Earlier in her message on the topic "The Hand of God," Rev Imoh said everyone blessed with talents and has value will face some opposition, but added that opposition in life is not entirely bad, as God will use same to prepare those who face it for higher glory.

She noted that most people failed because they look on the faces of men, instead of looking on Jesus, "The author and finisher of our faith," as the ultimate in finding solutions to their challenges, and success in their life endeavours.

The service which also had in attendance the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Elder Udeme Otong, State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Elder Aniekan Akpan, Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, Head of Civil Service, Elder Effiong Essien, Executive Assistant/Chief Delivery Advisor, Mr. Aniefiok Johnson, House of Assembly, and others, featured praises, worship, Bible competition and choir ministrations.

Media Unit
Govt. House, Uyo
30/3/25

RIVERS STATE CONTROLLER OF CORRECTIONS LEADS PARAMILITARY SERVICE CHIEFS IN COURTESY VISIT TO SOLE ADMINISTRATOR

The Rivers State Controller of Corrections, Felix Madumere FCAI, recently led a delegation of paramilitary service chiefs on a courtesy visit to the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas (rtd) ¹. During the visit, Vice Admiral Ibas emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts among paramilitary agencies to combat crime and criminality in the state.

He stressed the need for regular patrols and proactive measures to prevent agitation and ensure peaceful development in Rivers State. The Vice Admiral also highlighted dialogue as a crucial tool for gathering intelligence and addressing pressing security concerns, including kidnapping, bunkering, and protecting critical government infrastructure.

The Controller of Corrections, Rivers State Command, expressed gratitude to the Sole Administrator for the productive discussions, which will enhance the daily operations of various agencies and support the administrator's mandate to restore peace in Rivers State.

President Tinubu has instructed a Manhunt for the individuals responsible for the murder of hunters in Edo. Expressing his shock at the heinous act on Thursday, he has called on the police and other security agencies to carry out prompt and comprehensive investigations and to bring the suspects to justice.

In a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, President Tinubu expressed his condolences to the families of the victims. He promised them that those responsible for these crimes would not be permitted to spill the blood of innocent Nigerians without consequences.

The statement reads: “President Bola Tinubu has condemned the murder of travelling hunters intercepted by local vigilantes in the Uromi community of Esan North Local Government of Edo State.

“The President, who expressed shock at the dastardly act on Thursday, directed Police and other security agencies to conduct swift and thorough investigations and punish the suspected culprits.

“President Tinubu commiserated with the families of the affected victims and assured them that criminals would not be allowed to shed the blood of innocent Nigerians in vain.

“The President noted that jungle justice has no place in Nigeria, and all Nigerians have the freedom to move freely in any part of the country.

“President Tinubu commended the Edo State governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and community leaders in Uromi for their swift response to avert the escalation of tension.”

PHOTO NEWS :

ARISE AGENDA: GOV ENO DELIVERS ROAD PROJECT TO ORUK -ANAM LGA

In keeping with the tenets of the Arise Agenda blueprint of Akwa Ibom State government which takes developments to the grassroots, the State Governor, His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, has commissioned a-23km Ikot Okoro/Ikot Ekaide Road with 2Nos. Bridges at Oruk- Anam LGA.

Details shortly

Media Unit
Government House, Uyo
29/3/25

PHOTO NEWS :

GOV ENO ATTENDS MAIDEN GRADUATION CEREMONY OF DASAC

Akwa Ibom State Governor, His Excellency ,Pastor Umo Eno was the special guest at the maiden graduation ceremony of trainees at the Dakkada Skill Acquisition Center, DASAC, Ikot Ada Idem , Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area.

Details shortly.

Media Unit
Government House,Uyo
29/3/25

GOV ENO PAYS LAST RESPECT TO LATE BARR. BEN UDOWA

...describes him as a friend and man of many parts

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has commiserated with Mrs Lydia Udowa and family on the demise of her husband, Late Barr Ben Udowa.

In a condolence message delivered to the deceased family during the funeral held at The Redeemed Christian Church of God, Region Region 49 Headquarters, Eket, Governor Eno said the loss of a spouse, especially at such a relatively young age, evokes a deep sense of grief, assuring them that the whole state share in their painful moment.

He described the late Barr Udonwa as a man of many parts, a financial services expert, lawyer, entrepreneur, philanthropist, mentor and a beloved community leader, adding that he had inspired many to chart a course of personal development and growth.

The Governor observed that the deceased successfully led his multidisciplinary group of companies, Madelyn Group, and served the State meritoriously until his sad passing as the Executive Director, Other Investments in the Akwa Ibom State Investment Corporation (AKICORP), and distinguished himself as a dependable and far-sighted member of the critical agency.

He noted that as a good friend, late Barr Udowa believed and supported him wholeheartedly, a gesture which culminated to his successful campaign and subsequent emergence as Governor of the State in the 2023 general elections.

The State Chief Executive therefore urged the bereaved family to take solace in the fact that despite his short sojourn on earth, he was able to record a lot of impactful achievements, touched many lives and lived a life defined by Christian virtues, and prayed God to rest the soul of the departed.

The wife of the deceased, Mrs Lydia Udowa, thanked the Governor for leading State government functionaries to give her late husband the last respect, saying that the family is grateful for the gesture.

Mrs Udowa spoke of her late husband as a good and humble man, saying, "from the huge pouring of condolences from groups and individuals, my husband has been described as an exceptional man of great virtue."

Media Unit
Government House, Uyo
28/3/25

Tinubu’s second term assured – Akpabio

Senate President Godswill Akpabio says President Bola Ahmed Tinubu can rest assured that his second term in office is guaranteed, notwithstanding the ongoing plot by the opposition to unseat him in the 2027 poll.

Speaking during the special Iftar/Lent dinner organized by the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) aimed at strengthening fellowship and deepening bonds of unity among governors, National Assembly members, ministers, top government functionaries, and the leadership of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abuja on Wednesday night, he expressed optimism that the APC would also sweep more elective seats across the country in the 2027 poll.

Applauding the Governor Hope Uzodinma-led PGF for organizing the event, he called on party stalwarts across the country to work together to achieve the objective.

He said: “Can we say amen! We will offer prayers for our party, that yes, indeed, victory shall be ours in 2027. Can we say a loud amen! And we will also pray for Mr. President that his second term is assured. Can we shout a loud amen!

"So, for the party, our governors, you will grow in numbers, you will grow in numbers. On our part in the parliament, ours is to continue to add the numbers to you. We just recently sent one of our own in the Senate to go and take care of Edo State. Is that not a good thing?”

Uzodinma remarked that the occasion allows party stalwarts to pray, reason, and work together in the task of nation-building, adding that all hands must be on deck to ensure the victory of the APC in the 2027 poll.

“Because we practice partisan democracy, and because we produce the government, we must take ownership of the government no matter where we are and where we sit. The success of the government is our collective success. The failure of the government is our collective failure. And the government is like a product,” he noted.

“And all of us are marketing officers that must market this product. So the whole idea behind this… is to once more have a platform to appreciate ourselves, to celebrate our own, because the government is our own.

“So, as we work towards a more prosperous Nigeria, as we confront the challenges of leadership and governance, it is like a sweet and sour soup. Sometimes it is sweet, sometimes it looks bitter and sour, but at the end of the day, it is a food we must all eat.”

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Chief Wale Edun, maintained that remarkable progress has been achieved due to the bold and courageous decisions taken by the President Tinubu-led administration.

The Minister argued that the drop in the inflation rate and the reduction in the cost of living among Nigerians speak volumes of the progress recorded by the President Tinubu-led administration.

According to him, we are all living it. Inflation is down, food prices are coming down, energy prices are coming down, the exchange rate is stable.

He added, “Those are the things that affect the cost of living that people are feeling. There are other figures and metrics that are behind the scenes. But what matters is how people are feeling, how it is impacting them. And that is why Mr. President continues to make every effort to intervene, particularly on behalf of the poor and the most vulnerable.

“For coming together, Muslim brothers and sisters observing Ramadan, Christian brothers and sisters observing Lent. In brotherhood and in sisterhood, we stand. God will keep us strong, make our party strong, and help us to support, encourage, and work with President Tinubu to make Nigeria strong, make Nigeria great.”

Among the dignitaries at the event were the National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, Governors Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Monday Okpebholo, Francis Nwifuru, former Governor Yahaya Bello, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Benjamin Kalu, the House Leader, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, 36 states and FCT chairmen of the party, and members of the Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje-led National Working Committee (NWC).

RE: STATE OF THE NATION:
President Bola Tinubu appoints Senator Bassey Albert Akpan (OBA) as Chairman - South South Development Commission(SSDC).

The claim that President Bola Tinubu has appointed Senator Bassey Albert Akpan (OBA) as Chairman of the South South Development Commission (SSDC) is false, and there are strong indications it may be a calculated act of blackmail.

This piece of misinformation originated from a social media post attributed to one Kufre Sam, reportedly a Personal Assistant to the Minister of Gas and Petroleum, Ekperikpe Ekpo. The news went viral when one Victor Sage Thompson posted same information on his verified Facebook timeline.

At the time of this report, there has been no official announcement from the Presidency or any credible government source confirming this appointment.

The dissemination of this fake news, coupled with its origin, suggests a potential attempt to manipulate public perception or exert undue pressure, which aligns with characteristics of blackmail.

Therefore, the news should be disregarded in it entirety as it lacks official verification and appears to be a malicious fabrication.

Independent Reporters, Abuja