Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has directed all recently inaugurated local government chairmen to relocate to their respective Local Government Areas (LGAs) for effective service delivery.
Addressing his maiden meeting with the newly sworn-in chairmen in Uyo on Tuesday, Governor Eno emphasized the importance of proximity to the grassroots in addressing the challenges of local governance.
He reminded the chairmen, who assumed office October 7, 2024, that their leadership requires a deep understanding of the needs of the people.
In his words “As the Chief Security Officers of your respective LGAs, your presence within your domains is essential for responding swiftly to security and developmental matters”.
Governor Eno noted that the recent granting of full autonomy to local governments, comes with heightened responsibilities.
He, therefore urged the chairmen to leverage on the autonomy to ensure that governance and development extend to the most rural parts of the state.
“You are expected to be agents of good governance. Build bridges of unity and development, and avoid divisive, partisan politics. We are here to serve everyone, and I expect you to live among your people to fully grasp their needs and concerns,” the Governor reiterated
Governor Eno advised the chairmen to reject any “winner-takes-all” approach and instead foster inclusive governance that prioritizes peace and progress. He encouraged the Chairmen to devise strategies for improving local welfare and collaborate with other levels of government to develop rural areas.
A key highlight of the meeting was the election of Dr. Uwemedimo Udo, Chairman of Uyo Local Government, as the new Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Akwa Ibom State. Supporting him are Ikot Ekpene Chairman, Hon. Aniefiok Nkom, as Vice Chairman, and Eket Chairman, Hon. Akaninyene Tommy, as Secretary.
In their remarks, the Chairmen of Uyo, Ikot Ekpene, Essien Udim, and Nsit Ibom expressed their gratitude to Governor Eno for his leadership and pledged to work diligently toward fulfilling their campaign promises and improving the lives of their constituents.
Our correspondent reports that Governor Umo Eno’s advocacy for Local Government Chairmen to operate from their respective LGAs, to be closer to the class-root people dates back to his first week in office as Governor of Akwa Ibom State.
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