Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has commended President Bola Tinubu for increasing financial support to state governments, attributing the accelerated pace of development in Akwa Ibom to improved federal allocations.
Speaking during his investiture as Patron of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Akwa Ibom chapter, Governor Eno revealed that the state has been able to fund numerous projects without resorting to borrowing. He credited this achievement to strategic engagement with the federal government and what he described as “visionary economic decisions” by the Tinubu administration.
The event, held in Uyo as part of the NIPR’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), also witnessed the re-election of Dr. Ike Neliaku as National President and Chairman of the Council. Akwa Ibom Commissioner for Special Duties, Comrade Iniobong Ememobong, was also inducted alongside 15 other new council members.
In his remarks, Governor Eno called on the NIPR to intensify efforts in promoting a positive image for the country, noting that the ongoing economic reforms initiated by the federal government are beginning to yield results. “Let’s support the President’s vision,” he said. “Transformation takes time, and we must stay united in hope.”
Reflecting on his administration’s progress since assuming office in May 2023, Eno outlined several completed and ongoing infrastructure projects, including the revitalisation of the 5,000-capacity International Conference Centre and the construction of a 200-room luxury hotel aimed at boosting tourism in the state.
He pledged to uphold the ethics and values of the NIPR and expressed his readiness to collaborate with the institute in its mission to build a more reputation-driven society.
NIPR President Dr. Neliaku, in his address to members, praised Governor Eno for his leadership and support of public relations standards. He also gave a progress report on the institute’s recent initiatives, including the full digitalisation of membership applications, sector-specific development hubs, partnerships through Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), and the successful hosting of the Nigeria Spokespersons Summit.
The gathering was widely seen as both a professional milestone and a platform for renewed advocacy around ethical governance, national branding, and the promotion of credible public communication.
