Mfonobong Ukpong
This feature article highlights the recent inauguration of a Model Primary School at Ukana Iba in Essien Udim Local Government Area by Governor Umo Eno, a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to revamp its education sector.
The newly commissioned St. Ignatius Model Primary School is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including an assembly hall, a fully equipped computer laboratory, fully furnished classrooms, recreational centers, and modern staff quarters. This infrastructure upgrade is expected to provide a conducive learning environment for students, empowering them to reach their full potential.
Governor Umo Eno’s administration has demonstrated a commitment to education, recognizing its role as the backbone of a healthy and vibrant community. The governor’s ARISE Agenda prioritizes development across the state, with a focus on initiatives that drive growth and prosperity.
Education is a key component of the Governor’s ARISE Agenda, and he holds it dear to his heart. Within his first 100 days in office, the Christ King School at Wellington Bassey Way had witnessed a remarkable face-lift, remodelled from a decaying infrastructure to a befitting school facility that competes favourably with standard schools anywhere in the world.
The inauguration of the Model Primary School at Ukana Iba in Essien Udim is a testament to this vision, underscoring the administration’s dedication to investing in the future of Akwa Ibom’s children.
The event was attended by dignitaries, including the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, represented by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Kufreabasi Edidem, House of Assembly Member for Essien Udim, Prince Ukpong Akpabio, Commissioners-designate, Council Chairman of Essien Udim, Mr. Ntiedo Usoro, royal fathers, and other stakeholders. As a way of appreciating the Governor’s strides, The clan head of Ukana East, His Royal Highness Akuku Udoisug Ekorok Udofia, decorated the governor with the title of Iberedem Ukana, symbolizing power and strength.
The Governor’s commitment to education is not limited to the inauguration of the Model Primary School. His administration has also implemented various initiatives aimed at empowering farmers, entrepreneurs, and sports champions. For instance, the governor recently showered N550 million on Akwa Ibom farmers, entrepreneurs, sports champions, and others.
The Governor’s representative during the commissioning ceremony, Prince Godwin Ntukudeh had assured the people of Essien Udim of more projects in the pipeline, while soliciting for continuous support to the Governor. Worthy of note is the fact that the contractor handling the project, Surv. Uduak Nathan, CEO of Mekduak Ltd is from the local government area. This aligns with the Governor’s idea of human capacity building and empowerment. He was commended by the Governor’s representative for delivering the project on time and to specification.
As the state continues to navigate the complexities of modern education, the inauguration of the Model Primary School serves as a beacon of hope for a brighter future. With Governor Umo Eno at the helm, Akwa Ibom is poised to make significant strides in education, empowering its citizens to become active contributors to the state’s growth and development.
Mfonobong Ukpong writes from Ukana Ikot Oku Etim, Essien Udim LGA.
