By: Enobong Ukpong
The Akwa Ibom Business Community (AIBC), an umbrella organization for entrepreneurs and business operators across the state, has appealed to Governor Umo Eno to appoint the next Commissioner for Trade and Investment from within the business community.
This call, they insist, is essential to effectively drive the Governor’s ARISE Agenda in areas such as trade, investment, SME development, and industrialization.
Addressing the press over the weekend, less than 24 hours after the dissolution of the State Executive Council, AIBC President, Mr. Lordswill Umani, expressed concerns over the unfulfilled promise of a ₦2.5 billion business support grant. He attributed this lapse to the previous Commissioner’s failure to follow up on the Governor’s directive, which left the funds inaccessible to the business community.
Flanked by other AIBC members, Mr. Umani also dismissed reports alleging that Governor Eno had abandoned the business community, a group he once chaired as a Board of Trustees (BOT) leader. He described such claims as baseless, emphasizing the Governor’s commitment to keeping his promises.
“We urge members of the business community to disregard these publications. Governor Umo Eno remains a promise keeper who values and supports the private sector,” Umani affirmed.
The group further appealed to the Governor to include qualified individuals from the business community in his soon-to-be-constituted cabinet to ensure robust engagement with the private sector.
AIBC Press Statement
DISCLAIMER: GOVERNOR UMO ENO REMAINS COMMITTED TO THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY
Good morning, gentlemen of the press,
Our attention has been drawn to publications claiming that His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, has abandoned the business community he once served as BOT Chairman.
This press conference seeks to clarify that these allegations are untrue. Governor Umo Eno is a promise keeper and remains committed to supporting the business community in Akwa Ibom State.
We urge all members of AIBC globally to maintain faith in the Governor’s administration. He holds the private sector dear and has continually demonstrated his dedication to fostering private sector growth.
As a community, we appeal to His Excellency to appoint someone from the business sector as the new Commissioner for Trade and Investment. This individual should understand the unique challenges facing businesses in Akwa Ibom and be capable of driving investments in line with the Governor’s ARISE Agenda.
We commend the Governor for his exemplary leadership and pledge our continued support. Any attempts to tarnish his image or discredit his administration will be strongly resisted by the business community.
Thank you.
Signed:
Akwa Ibom Business Community (AIBC)
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