When Governor Udom Emmanuel became the Governor, it was expected by everyone that he will follow in the footsteps of the former Governor, Godswill Obot Akpabio, but instead he has exceed expectations.
In his past five years in office, this man Mr Udom Emmanuel has transformed Akwa Ibom State totally, bringing in a fresh perspective to the leadership recruitment process in Akwa Ibom state, created unconventional ideas that have pushed the limits of job options available in the state, food production, industrialisation and other social services.
In his five points development agenda for our dear State in 2015, Governor Udom Gabriel Emmanuel promised to create wealth, alleviate poverty, create jobs, consolidate and expand infrastructure, and ensure economic and political inclusion. The initiative which he chose to pilot this five points agenda development was industrialisation and we have since seen how Governor Udom Emmanuel has kept to his words of transforming Akwa Ibom State into an industry State unlike the past Governors before him
His reflections during the electioneering, that Akwa Ibom state would be industrialised under his watch as governor, that jobs, wealth would be created to alleviate poverty; was a strong, unique market – entry campaign into the governorship race, for a man who was making a debut into politics.
His vision for growth and economic prosperity for the state is strong and clear. Through him, Peace has been restored to Akwa Ibom State. The kidnappings that used to disturb the state was brought to an ease in his administration. One unique thing about Emmanuel’s reflections on industrialisation during the electioneering in 2015 was the strategic initiative, showing how he intended to industrialise Akwa Ibom state.
On the ‘how question’, Udom Emmanuel was unequivocal that he will drive industrialisation by developing the three gateways into the state, which are, air, land and water. So far, in his four years plus as governor, Emmanuel has abode by that strategic initiative and the results of his industrialisation plan are feasible. We can count at least 16 industries so far.
Within five years, Governor Emmanuel’s industrialisation programme is revolutionizing the economy of Akwa Ibom state from a poor, crude oil – derivation – dependent, and civil service-driven economy to a multi-industrial hub, with great ambitions to become a reference in aviation and maritime development, and manufacturing in the Gulf of Guinea.
Governor Udom Emmanuel is the only Governor that has succeeded in taking us to the promise land.
He is the Governor loved by all.
