Pastor Umo Eno, Governor of Akwa Ibom State, has announced that N60 billion has been released from the state government’s resources to Ibom Air for the acquisition of two new Bombardier CRJ900 aircraft.
This action is part of the state’s attempts to help the airline expand and improve air transport in the region.
This declaration was delivered by Governor Eno in a meeting with Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio, a socio-cultural organisation.
He underlined that the state’s capacity to finance this project without the need for outside loans is evidence of the wise use of public funds by his administration. Governor Eno declared, “We need to establish an investment fund in our state.
We need to place money aside for reinvestment consciously and purposefully so that our state may stay in the forefront. Additionally, he pointed out that depending on outside loans would result in ongoing debt, which would benefit creditors at the expense of the state’s citizens.
Governor Eno further disclosed that by the end of September 2024, recipients of the backlog of gratuity arrears will receive N35 billion in addition to the aircraft purchase.
This payment covers almost half of the total amount owed. The governor expressed gratitude to Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio for their contribution to bringing Akwa Ibom State’s many ethnic groups together.
Citing Governor Eno’s amazing development program, ARISE, Akparawa James Edet, the organization’s international president, expressed support for Governor Eno’s second term.
In Essence
Governor Umo Eno’s decision to allocate N60 billion from state resources to acquire two CRJ900 aircraft for Ibom Air reflects a strategic focus on expanding regional air transport.
This move suggests that the state is prioritizing infrastructure that can boost economic development, tourism, and connectivity in Akwa Ibom.
By avoiding external loans, Eno emphasizes fiscal prudence and aims to keep the state’s finances independent, thus minimizing debt obligations that could burden future administrations.
The governor’s broader economic approach, particularly through his ARISE development program, also focuses on investment in infrastructure while simultaneously addressing historical liabilities like gratuity arrears.
The allocation of N35 billion for this purpose is a significant step toward alleviating financial burdens on retirees.
