By Mary Emmanuel
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has reaffirmed that his administration’s initiative of executing one project per local government area is geared towards uplifting living standards and fostering rural development, rather than for political motives.
In adherence to this commitment, Governor Eno inaugurated a Model Primary Health Center in Odot, Nsit Atai LGA, fulfilling a promise made under the Arise Agenda, specifically targeting rural areas for critical social amenities and infrastructure. Stressing the paramount importance of accessible healthcare, Governor Eno emphasized that the benefits of development can only be fully realized when citizens are in good health, alongside the implementation of other vital projects like schools and markets. Represented by Deputy Governor, Senator (Dr) Akon Eyakenyi, the Governor underscored the administration’s dedication to establishing a robust healthcare delivery system spanning from primary to tertiary levels. Expressing satisfaction with the progress of the Arise Agenda, particularly in rural development endeavors, Governor Eno highlighted the significance of initiatives such as the ‘one project per LGA’ approach in ensuring equitable development across all LGAs. ” I am excited because we are on the track in the implementation of ARISE Agenda , particularly the dimension that has to do with rural development.
During my electioneering campaign, I promised to take rural areas of Akwa Ibom state to provision of critical social amenities and infrastructures. The introduction of the ‘one project per LGA’ initiative underscores the administration’s commitment to fairness and accelerating infrastructural development while mitigating allegations of marginalization. “In furtherance of our vision of rural development, we introduced ‘the one project per LGA initiatives’, aim at ensuring all LGA in state attract in development.” Governor Eno reiterated that all projects adhere to global standards and are intentionally designed to enhance living standards, stressing the intrinsic link between healthcare and overall prosperity. ” This administration does not embark on projects to score political point, it is intentional about enhancing the leaving standards of the people. All our projects comply with the global standards.
The importance of sound healthcare delivery system cannot be over emphasized, health is inestricably tied to wealth being productivity and prosperity. Highlighting the interconnectedness of healthcare and development, Governor Eno affirmed the administration’s resolve to prioritize healthcare accessibility alongside other essential infrastructure projects. “As we build schools , markets and initiate numerous empowerment programs for our people, we’re conscious of the fact that they can enjoy these things only when they’re healthy. This is why we are intentional about making healthcare accessible including those in rural communities,” Governor stated.” Recognizing the invaluable contributions of local stakeholders, the Governor emphasized the pivotal role of the healthcare facility in reducing infant and maternal mortality rates in the region.
Governor Eno elucidated the rationale behind the ‘one project per local government’ initiative, emphasizing its aim to ensure fairness and expeditious infrastructural development while fostering inclusivity. Nsit Atai Local Government Area stakeholders were urged to actively participate in safeguarding the newly inaugurated facilities to ensure their sustainability and prevent misuse or vandalism.
The Commissioner for Health commended Governor Umo Eno’s visionary approach towards rural development and highlighted the modern facilities equipped at the model health center. Various local leaders lauded the Governor for his unwavering commitment to addressing healthcare needs and pledged their continuous support for his administration’s endeavors.