By John Ogunsemore
The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, has commended the pace and quality of work at the ARISE Park project site located in Uyo, the state capital.
According to a Saturday statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Ekerete Udoh, the governor spoke during an unscheduled inspection of the project site upon his return from the African Food Systems Conference in Rwanda.
Eno described it as an excellent realisation of his vision to transform a previously dreaded ravine into a valuable asset for the state’s tourism industry and praised the contractor for adhering to due diligence on the project.
He said, “This is one of the most visited sites by this administration. The reason is its proximity to the Government House. As we pass through, we always stop to check the progress. I am happy with the work, and I believe the contractor is doing a great job.”
The governor expressed particular satisfaction with the successful reclamation of the ravine, which has saved the lives and homes of residents whose properties were threatened by the gully erosion.
He also highlighted the commercial value the project would add to the previously devastated area upon completion.
“This park can be compared to any in this region. It makes me happy because what was once just a dream is now becoming a reality. We have great people who have brought this vision to life, which is the essence of teamwork. I look forward to bringing my grandchildren here and running around with them at Christmas. That’s our expectation,” he said.
The Commissioner for Works and Fire Service, Professor Eno Ibanga, further explained that the ARISE Park project, which began as a reclamation of the Udoinwang-Etim Okon Umana ravine, has expanded into a multi-faceted initiative with new components added after each review.
He assured that the people of Akwa Ibom would be proud upon the project’s completion.
The Chairman of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom State, Elder Aniekan Akpan, who accompanied the governor on the inspection, praised Governor Eno’s ingenuity and foresight, describing him as a pride of the party.
Conveying the contractor’s assurances, the Managing Director of Bulletin Construction Company, Chief Faysal Harb, praised Governor Eno’s political will and commitment to the project’s execution, stating that the project will be delivered in line with the governor’s expectations by December 2024.
