Akwa Ibom State Governor Pastor Umo Eno has announced a significant financial investment of N60 billion to Ibom Air for the purchase of two new Bombardier CRJ900 aircraft.
This strategic investment aims to bolster the airline’s expansion efforts and enhance regional air transportation.
Governor Eno revealed the allocation during a meeting with the socio-cultural organization Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio, according to Vanguard.
He highlighted that the state’s capability to finance this project independently, without resorting to external loans, reflects his administration’s effective and responsible management of public funds.
Governor Eno said “Our state must have an investment fund. We must deliberately and intentionally put away funds to reinvest and put our state amongst the states that will continue to take the lead.”
He also noted that relying on external loans would lead to perpetual indebtedness, benefiting creditors at the expense of the state’s people.
Additionally, Governor Eno revealed that by the end of September 2024, N35 billion will be allocated to settle nearly 50% of the backlog in gratuity arrears for beneficiaries.
This payment is part of the state’s effort to address long-standing financial commitments.
Governor Eno praised the group for its role in fostering unity among Akwa Ibom’s diverse ethnic communities.
The organization’s International President, Akparawa James Edet, voiced support for Governor Eno’s re-election, highlighting his notable development agenda, ARISE.
