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Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Bassey Eno, has reaffirmed that his administration will not be drawn into political distractions as the state edges closer to another election cycle, stressing that his priority remains the delivery of tangible projects that directly impact citizens.
The governor spoke on Saturday during the official flag-off of the Ibom Compressed Natural Gas CNG Mass Transit Terminal, a major transport infrastructure project located within the Obio Offot and Ikot Akpe communities in Uyo Local Government Area. According to him, governance must remain rooted in service, not political maneuvering.
He emphasized that while political actors may intensify their activities, his government is committed to fulfilling the mandate given by the people. Governor Eno described leadership as a responsibility that demands discipline, focus, and loyalty to promises made, adding that his administration would not allow the approaching political season to derail ongoing development efforts.
Addressing party politics, the governor disclosed that appointments into boards and similar political positions would be limited to members of the All Progressives Congress APC. He also encouraged residents of the state to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards and formally identify with the party, framing political participation as a civic duty.
On the transport initiative, Governor Eno announced that an initial batch of 50 CNG-powered buses has already been procured and fully paid for, with delivery expected by April 2026. He explained that the mass transit scheme is part of a broader plan to reduce transportation costs, improve mobility, and transition the state toward cleaner energy solutions.
Read also: Akwa Ibom: Udom Is Still My Godfather – Gov Umo Eno Admits
The governor also referenced other strategic transport projects either completed or nearing completion, including the Marine Terminal in Oron and upgrades to the international wing of the Victor Attah International Airport, alongside the continued expansion of Ibom Air. He said these investments are central to positioning Akwa Ibom as a competitive destination for tourism, business, and private capital.
Welcoming the governor and his entourage, Chairman of Uyo Local Government Area, Dr Uwemedimo Udoh, praised the decision to locate the terminal within the council area. He described the project as a game changer that would ease the cost of movement, stimulate local economies, and introduce environmentally friendly transport options to residents.
Commissioner for Transport, Dr Anthony Luke, outlined the scale and scope of the project, noting that the terminal will occupy about 62,000 square metres. Facilities planned for the site include a modern transport terminal, CNG filling station, maintenance and training facilities, police post, loading bays, administrative offices, commercial spaces, VIP lounge, restaurant, and an automated car wash.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources Gas, Obongemem Ekperikpe Ekpo, said the project aligns with the Federal Government’s Presidential CNG Initiative, which seeks to lower transport costs and reduce reliance on petrol nationwide.
Managing Director of Alpha Diaz Projects Limited, Mr Alexander Eleftheriads, said the terminal is conceived as a comprehensive mobility hub, featuring a technical training school expected to train about 600 people yearly. He assured that construction would be completed within six months.
Project Delivery Adviser on Transport, Hon Orman Esin, described the terminal as a signature initiative of the Eno administration, predicting that it would significantly improve intra-state transportation and overall mobility across Akwa Ibom State.
