Governor Umo Eno Swears in New Cabinet, Assigns Portfolios to 25 Commissioners
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has officially inaugurated his new executive council, swearing in 25 commissioners and two special advisers. The event, which took place in Uyo, marked a fresh chapter in the state’s governance, with Governor Eno assigning key portfolios to the new appointees.
Notably, six out of the nine commissioners from the previous State Executive Council (SEC), dissolved in January, were retained in the new cabinet. These individuals kept their previous portfolios, ensuring continuity in the state’s leadership.
During the swearing-in ceremony, Governor Eno spoke to the new cabinet members, emphasizing their privilege in being selected to serve the people of Akwa Ibom. He highlighted that the appointments were based on their proven abilities and potential to drive the state’s growth.
“You have been privileged to be selected out of the 7.9 million people to provide service to your state based primarily on your proven capacities and ability to get the job done,” the governor stated. He also stressed the importance of loyalty to both the governor and the state, urging the cabinet to work collaboratively in the pursuit of the state’s goals outlined in his Arise Agenda.
Governor Eno further emphasized the need for unity and teamwork within the council, stating that the new executive must be shaped by a spirit of oneness and mutual support. He warned that divisiveness and infighting must be avoided, as they could undermine the progress of the state. “This EXCO must be shaped by love, teamwork, unity of purpose, and the spirit of oneness,” he said.
In a statement on the communication protocol within the government, the governor directed that only the Commissioner for Information and the Chief Press Secretary are authorized to issue official press statements on behalf of the government.
Among the appointees retained in their previous roles are Uko Udom, SAN, who continues as Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General; Captain Iniobong Ekong (retd), who remains at the Ministry of Lands; and Dr. Offiong Offor, who retains the Ministry of Agriculture.
Other returning commissioners include Prof. Eno Ibanga (Ministry of Works and Fire Service), Frank Archibong (Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs), and Gen. Koko Essien (retd) at the Ministry of Internal Security and Waterways.
Additionally, Ini Ememobong, the former Commissioner for Information, now takes charge of Special Duties and the Ibom Deep Sea Port. Meanwhile, Linus Nkan, the former Commissioner for Finance, swapped portfolios with Emem Bob, the former Commissioner for Economic Development.
Among the fresh faces in the cabinet is Paul Bassey, a well-known sports journalist, administrator, and former chairman of Akwa United FC, who will now head the Ministry of Sports.
Governor Eno’s newly formed executive council represents a blend of continuity and fresh perspectives, as the state embarks on the implementation of the governor’s transformative agenda.
