By Aniekan Umanah
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At exactly 8:30 PM on Thursday, February 6, 2025, the State Amphitheater along Udo Udoma Avenue, Uyo, erupted in excitement as Governor Umo Eno stepped into the arena. Dressed in a black designer handcrafted shirt with gold lining, jeans, Versace loafers, and a black ARISE beaded face cap, with an excellent accompaniment of accessories, he exuded confidence and charisma meandering through the crowd and exchanging pleasantries, he set the stage for an unforgettable evening.
By his side was his daughter, along and Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Helen Eno-Obareki, and her spouse. He was also flanked by the Speaker of the State Assembly, party chieftains, members of both the National and State Assemblies, and citizens from all walks of life. The amphitheater was packed to capacity, a testament to the significance of the occasion.
The event, Arise Happy Hour – An Evening of Grants and Empowerment, was designed to reward hard work, foster economic empowerment, and celebrate the rich cultural and entrepreneurial spirit of Akwa Ibomites. It was a night of recognition, celebration, and inspiration.
Setting the tone for the evening, the Secretary to the State Government highlighted the administration’s unwavering commitment to empowerment, entrepreneurship, and inclusive governance. He emphasized the importance of recognizing excellence and supporting the state’s diverse talents.
Taking the stage, Governor Umo Eno reaffirmed these ideals. “Tonight is not a night for long speeches,” he declared. “We are gathered here under this warm and sparkling evening to celebrate, showcase, and reward the can-do spirit of our people across various spheres of human endeavor.”
The evening witnessed the announcement of several empowerment initiatives. Fifty beneficiaries of the Arise Home Farmers Scheme, who had cultivated staple foods in their communities, each received ₦500,000 grants to expand their agricultural ventures. Further strengthening his administration’s commitment to economic inclusion, 400 beneficiaries, particularly female youths and members of the Arise Ladies in White, were awarded ₦750,000 each, bringing the total disbursement to ₦300 million in support of small and medium-scale businesses.
Beyond economic empowerment, the night was also about recognizing excellence in various sectors. Civil servants who had distinguished themselves in service were honored with ₦1 million grants, rewarding the best-performing staff across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). The Governor’s Cup football competition, which saw participation from all 31 local government areas, also reached its climax, with winners recognized for their skill and dedication.
The much-anticipated Christmas Unplugged 2.0, a month-long cultural showcase, came to a grand conclusion. Each local government area received ₦5 million, totaling ₦150 million, in the Governor’s effort to preserve and promote the state’s rich heritage.
Taking a moment to discuss governance and accountability, Governor Umo Eno shed light on budgeting and government expenditures, emphasizing the need for transparency and prudent resource management. He proudly announced that Akwa Ibom State had achieved 79% budget performance for the first time, assuring the people that his administration remains committed to responsible financial management.
The atmosphere was electrified by musical performances from some of Akwa Ibom’s finest entertainers. Prosper, Sir Wilker, Mr. Xto, and Ikpa Udo thrilled the audience, while a special Pan-Nigerian musical duet featuring classics like Christy Essien’s “Showurere” and Oliver De Coque’s timeless hits brought a nostalgic and unifying touch to the night.
Then came the night’s headline act, Afrikan Highlife King, Flavour, who took the stage with unmatched energy. Delivering over ten of his biggest hits, he held the audience spellbound, igniting the amphitheater with his infectious rhythms and electrifying stage presence. Song after song, the crowd sang along, danced, and reveled in the celebration, making the night truly worth its while.
Encouraging the audience to relax and enjoy, Governor Umo Eno smiled and said, “So, sit back, grab your snacks, and let the atmosphere of love, excellence, and unity take hold as we look forward to Flavour taking the stage.”
The Governor also reaffirmed his administration’s vision for the state, announcing key upcoming projects, including the commissioning of Arise Park in April, which would transform a once gully-erosion-ravaged area into a world-class family-themed park. He also spoke about the planned reconstruction and remodeling of the Ibom International Convention Centre, which is set to become one of the finest in the country. Additionally, town hall meetings and empowerment series will soon be launched across the 10 federal constituencies, ensuring direct engagement with the people and shaping the 2026 People’s Budget.
“Akwa Ibom is a destination of choice,” the Governor declared. “We are peaceful, hospitable, and blessed with the finest cuisines in the nation. Our road network is among the best in the country, and Ibom Air continues to set the standard in aviation excellence. We invite the world to come, invest, live, and thrive in our beautiful state.”
As the night drew to a close, it was evident that Arise Happy Hour was more than just an event—it was a statement of purpose. It showcased a government that values hard work, entrepreneurship, culture, and excellence.
“This is what Happy Hour represents—reward for hard work, talent, creativity, and industry. When you put in the work, you should also take the time to celebrate your efforts.”
With the promise of continued economic empowerment, infrastructural development, and inclusive governance, Akwa Ibom is indeed rising, its people rising with it. And as the last notes of music faded into the night, one thing was certain: Happy Hour had begun.
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Aniekan Umanah is a former member of the House of Representatives and writes from Abak, Akwa Ibom State.
