Senate President Godswill Akpabio has applauded what he described as sustainable development paradigm under incumbent Governor Umo Eno in Akwa Ibom State.
He expressed delight that the policies and programmes of the current administration were in line with what obtained during his era as governor of the state between 2007 and 2015.
Akpabio spoke during a reception to usher in a new A220-300 Airbus acquired by the state government to boost the IbomAir’s fleet in Uyo, the state capital.
The Senate president, accompanied by colleagues from the National Assembly (NASS), commended Eno for his investment in Ibom Air and other development initiatives across the state, expressing support for the governor’s ARISE development agenda.
Besides, the Senate President noted Eno’s commitment to completing the projects initiated by previous administrations, describing continuity in governance as important to the development of the state.
“I’m very excited to be here today to receive the new Airbus A220-300 series in Akwa Ibom State. This shows the height of progress under the administration of Governor Umo Eno,” Akpabio said.
The Senate president also canvassed support for Eno’s re-election bid, declaring, “As the campaigns have started, I bring you a very valuable candidate from APC, Governor Umo Eno. I will join hands with the governor to continue the progress of this state.”
At the official reception and water-cannon ceremony for the newly acquired Airbus A220-300, held as part of activities marking the 39th anniversary of the State, the Governor expressed optimism that the expansion of Ibom Air’s fleet would create greater opportunities for the state in the aviation industry.
Describing September as a month of gratitude, the Governor said, “this is a month of gratitude. Today, we are here to welcome the Airbus. We are expecting growth in the aviation sector.”
Beyond expanding the airline’s fleet, the Governor said the state’s investment in Ibom Air was also aimed at developing indigenous manpower and creating opportunities for Akwa Ibom indigenes in the aviation industry.
According to him, 14 of Ibom Air’s 30 pilots are indigenes of Akwa Ibom, while 10 other indigenes are undergoing cadet pilot training in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with another 10 receiving training at an aviation school in Zaria.
Gov Eno said the figures demonstrated the state’s growing participation in the aviation business, adding that his administration would continue to support initiatives capable of equipping young people with skills and opening up opportunities for them.
The development, he said, was part of a broader effort to ensure that investment in the airline translated into both improved air transport services and human-capital development within the state.
The Governor paid glowing tributes to the previous Governors of the State for their vision and contributions in the development of the State’s aviation industry and promised to continue to invest in its growth and expansion.
He thanked President Bola Tinubu, for his support to the State and especially applauded him for approving an international status for the airport, which enabled the direct flight to the airport from outside the country.
The newly acquired Airbus A220-300, received by the governor during the ceremony, is expected to strengthen Ibom Air’s operations and further support the growth of Akwa Ibom’s aviation sector.
The aircraft was flown into the state by Ibom Air Chief Pilot, Captain Rose Adebanwo, who said the Airbus A220-300 would bring advanced technology, greater efficiency and increased operational capability to the airline.
The Chairman of the Board of Ibom Air, Captain Mfon Udom, commended the state government for its continued investment in the airline and expansion of its fleet.
In his goodwill message, Chief Assam Assam,SAN, also commended Governor Eno for what he described as visible development projects and his commitment to the welfare of the people.
The paramount ruler of Eket, Edidem Etim Charles Abia, lauded the governor for fostering unity across the state, which he said had translated into tangible progress, while Chief Asam Asam commended Governor Eno’s steadfastness and credibility in sustaining confidence in Akwa Ibom’s development agenda.
