Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has called on traditional rulers in the state to sustain their efforts in promoting peace and unity within their domains. He made this appeal on Wednesday while presenting certificates of recognition to newly recognised traditional rulers at the State Supreme Traditional Rulers Council Hall in Uyo. The governor emphasised the importance of their roles in maintaining stability and harmony in their respective communities.
During the ceremony, Governor Eno announced an immediate upward review of the welfare package for traditional rulers, reaffirming his administration's commitment to their well-being. He disclosed that modalities had been put in place to review their monthly remuneration, demonstrating his government's dedication to improving their welfare. The governor also urged traditional rulers to leverage their platforms to promote sustainable peace and unity not only within the state but also beyond.
The governor tasked the new clan heads and other traditional rulers with using their positions to foster grassroots stability, promote unity, and collaborate closely with the state and local governments to drive security and development. He stressed that Akwa Ibom remains one and will continue to work as one, emphasising that their appointment is a call to serious responsibility. The governor encouraged them to work towards ensuring that their communities, Local Government Areas, and the state thrive in peace and harmony for development to set in properly.
Earlier, the state Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Frank Archibong, described the event as a moment of cultural significance. He praised Governor Eno for his visionary leadership and dedication to improving rural infrastructure, noting that the administration's ARISE Agenda had brought notable development to the state and consolidated the gains of past leaders. Archibong appreciated the governor's respect and commitment to the welfare of traditional rulers.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs assured the traditional institution of its commitment to supporting the governor and the ARISE Agenda. He acknowledged the governor's efforts in ensuring the timely release of allowances, security, and welfare packages for traditional rulers. This, he said, demonstrates the governor's love and commitment to their welfare.
In their remarks, traditional rulers commended Governor Eno's peace-loving disposition and pledged their commitment to maintaining their advisory role to ensure peace and unity across the state. The Oku Ibom Ibibio and President-General of the Supreme Council of Akwa Ibom State Traditional Rulers, Ntenyin Solomon Etuk, as well as the Chairman of the Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers, Akuku Saviour Sylvester Udofia, appreciated the governor for his love and commitment to their welfare.
The event featured the official presentation of certificates to new clan heads, including Etebom Bassey Okon, Ndiya Clan in Ikono Local Government Area; Etebom Ini Moses Akabom, Ito Clan in Ika Local Government Area; and Etebom Mbang F. Mbang, Southern Afaha Clan in Ukanafun Local Government Area, among others. The presentation of certificates marked a significant milestone in the recognition of new traditional rulers in the state.
Key points
- Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has announced an upward review of the welfare package for traditional rulers in the state.
