The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative for Nigeria, Elsie G. Attafuah, has commended the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, PhD, for his visionary leadership and innovative development initiatives under the ARISE Agenda.
Following her courtesy call on Governor Umo Eno, Ms. Attafuah, accompanied by a delegation from UNDP, was led around some projects in the State by the State Commissioner for Information, Hon. Aniekan Umanah.
The UNDP REP expressed admiration for the Governor’s commitment to agricultural development, tourism, infrastructure, digital innovation, and economic advancement.
She emphasized that the UNDP is eager to collaborate with the state government to support its transformative agenda.
“We have been warmly welcomed by His Excellency, the Governor, and the people of Akwa Ibom. For many of us, including myself, this is our first time here, and we are truly inspired by the Governor’s leadership and vision, particularly in advancing the ARISE Agenda,” she stated.
One of the key highlights of her visit was the tour of the ongoing Arise Industrial Park, where she was highly impressed by the scale and ambition of the project.
She described the initiative as a game-changer for industrialization, job creation, and economic growth in the state.
“Seeing the Arise Park project firsthand has been an eye-opening experience. The level of planning and execution is commendable, and I sincerely hope to be a part of this great transformation unfolding in Akwa Ibom,” she remarked.
The innovation and digitalization agenda of the state also caught the UNDP’s attention, with Ms. Attafuah praising the ICT Center at Christ the King School as a forward-thinking initiative that will equip young people with the skills needed for the future. She also highlighted the ongoing partnership with the University of Uyo, where a University Port is being established to enhance research and innovation.
Additionally, she acknowledged Akwa Ibom’s tourism potential, describing it as “one of the finest in the continent.” She emphasized the importance of leveraging the state’s natural beauty, waterways, and lush greenery to attract global investors and tourists.
Energy was another key area of discussion, as she noted that without reliable power, industrialization cannot thrive. She expressed the UNDP’s readiness to support the state in developing sustainable energy solutions.
“We are here to stay, and I am personally honored to have been given a local name.
“This is home. We will continue working together to ensure Akwa Ibom fulfills its vision as the Land of Promise,” she concluded.
Ms Attafuah who had earlier been shown the just completed Model Health Center at Uyo and the Model Primary School also along Wellington Bassey Way, Uyo, where she specifically lauded the ICT unit of the school which aligns with the technological innovations being promoted by her organization.
