Hon. Anietie Eka, SSA Idorenyin Raphael, and Market Executives Unite to Tackle Street Trading and Illegal Motor Parks in Uyo

Hon. Anietie Eka, SSA Idorenyin Raphael, and Market Executives Unite to Tackle Street Trading and Illegal Motor Parks in Uyo

As part of his concerted efforts to address the growing challenges of street trading and illegal motor parks within the capital city, the Chairman of the Uyo Capital City Development Authority (UCCDA), Hon. Anietie Eka, engaged in a high-level discussion with the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor on Trade and Market Matters, Hon. Idorenyin Raphael, and key market executives.

The meeting, which took place at the Authority's headquarters, brought together stakeholders from major markets in Uyo Senatorial District to deliberate on the dangers posed by roadside trading and unauthorized motor parks. The gathering underscored the government’s commitment to restoring order in the capital city and ensuring a safer, cleaner, and more business-friendly environment.

In his remarks, Hon. Anietie Eka lamented the increasing presence of traders displaying their wares on walkways and roadsides, obstructing free movement and exposing both sellers and buyers to avoidable risks. He noted that while trading is a legitimate economic activity, conducting business in unauthorized spaces disrupts traffic flow and poses security threats.

He expressed gratitude to his boss and father, Pastor Umo Eno, Ph.D., for the opportunity and trust given to him to lead the affairs of the UCCDA. He also applauded his predecessor, the Secretary to the State Government, Otuekong Prince Enobong Uwah, whom he credited with laying a solid foundation for him to build upon. Additionally, he thanked the SSA to the Governor, Hon. Idorenyin Raphael, and other executive members for taking the time to attend this crucial meeting.

He stated, "The government has provided designated markets with adequate facilities for traders, yet some prefer to sell on the streets, putting their lives and those of pedestrians at risk. We must put an end to this indiscriminate practice, but we will do it amicably. Our Governor is a very compassionate man. That is why I have given a seven day grace before the commencement of our clearing exercise to allow for more consultations with stakeholders. I have met with the traditional rulers, and I will engage LG chairmen of the affected areas, all in a bid to eliminate this menace and restore the glory of our city. I need your cooperation."

Similarly, Hon. Idorenyin Raphael decried the proliferation of illegal markets, which have become hotspots for criminal activities, including pickpocketing, drug abuse, and extortion. In his words, "The government supports traders, and we wholeheartedly back the government's intention to stop street trading. We have already signed a pact with the government to that effect. Stopping roadside trading is non-negotiable; it is illegal and must be stopped. Each market stops where the fence stops. Any trading beyond the fence is illegal and has led to accidents and deaths. It is our collective responsibility to end roadside trading, and we are in full support of this initiative."

In their separate remarks, the Board of Trustees Chairman of Itam Market, Mr. Godwin Enefiok Ebong, pleaded for a little more time to complete the ongoing renovation at the market but expressed full support for the government’s initiative to end roadside trading. The Chairman of Akpanandem Market, Mr. Joseph Peter, criticized the attitude of some traders. He stressed that the government should address those who sell government roads to traders and issue tickets to them. He argued that once the root cause is addressed, traders will move into the available spaces within the markets.

Elder Idongesit Sam also emphasized that there is a designated and functional night market, and traders who sell on the roads should be relocated inside the market. He further suggested that security operatives be stationed in these areas to enforce compliance.

Unanimously, all stakeholders condemned roadside trading and pledged to support efforts to rid the city center of this menace, describing it as an eyesore. They also appealed to the government to make the clearing exercise a continuous process.

The meeting had in attendance, the Secretary/ Head of Administration of UCCDA, Admin. Anietie Akpan, the head of Accounts, Mr David Ekpo and key Staff and Aids of the Chairman.

DR. WISDOM ENANG ENUNCIATES HOW NIGERIA'S NON-OIL SECTORS COULD BE HARNESSED TO STABILIZE THE NAIRA

DR. WISDOM ENANG ENUNCIATES HOW NIGERIA'S NON-OIL SECTORS COULD BE HARNESSED TO STABILIZE THE NAIRA

SAMPSON ENYONGEKERE, UYO

A globally renowned oil and gas consultant, Engr. (Dr.) Wisdom Patrick Enang is of the opinion that diversifying away from oil, which has long defined Nigeria's economic structure would unarguably save the country's currency, the Naira. 

The shrewd energy expert stated this on Friday, January 17, in an interview with newsmen in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital. 

He revealed that for decades; Nigeria's economic health has been heavily tied to oil exports which contributes over 90% of the country's foreign exchange earnings but 10% of the GDP.

Going history lane, Dr. Enang reminded that pre-independence Nigeria thrived on non-oil exports such as cocoa, groundnuts, and cotton, lamenting the shift away from these roots which has increased Nigeria’s reliance on oil, and exposed the nation’s economy to global market volatility.

“This imbalance leaves Nigeria vulnerable to global oil price fluctuations, and in recent times has contributed significantly to the sharp depreciation of the Naira which currently trades for N1560.13 to the US dollar, compared to N890 as of January 23, 2024. These economic strains make the Naira vulnerable to external market shocks.” 

The Adjunct Professor of the North Dakota University (USA) further emphasized that the Naira's dramatic depreciation is driven by multiple factors including: the increasing demand for US dollars, floatation of the Naira, and the removal of fuel subsidies in mid-2023.

“This has triggered higher transportation and living costs across Nigeria, leading to inflation which has further weakened the Naira. Also, Nigeria’s over-reliance on oil for foreign exchange remains a major factor in its economic instability.”

“While Nigeria still grapples with the volatility of the oil market, several developing nations have managed to build strong diversified economies that thrive outside the oil sector.”

Expatiating further, the Akwa Ibom born, British trained Chartered Engineer cited Vietnam, Brazil, and Indonesia as important case studies of how investment in non-oil sectors can lead to economic stability. 

“Vietnam generates over $50 billion USD annually from electronics exports, besides earning $4 billion USD yearly from rice exports, solidifying its position as the world's second largest rice exporter. Similarly, Brazil generates approximately $41 billion USD from soybean exports alone, making it the largest global exporter of soybeans. Indonesia also generates over $30 billion USD annually from its robust palm oil and rubber export sectors, positioning itself as a leading exporter of Agricultural commodities.” 

Known for his massive campaigns and sustained advocacy for the adoption of a value-driven approach to leadership and governance, Dr. Wisdom Enang informed that Nigeria was not without its own assets which could help diversify the nation’s economy, as the country is the global leader in several agricultural products.

“By scaling up the export of high demand crops like cocoa, cashew nuts, and palm oil, Nigeria can reduce the pressure on the Naira and stimulate foreign exchange”, he suggested. 

Speaking further, the Ethical and Attitudinal Reorientation Czar intimated that Nigeria being one of the global leading exporters of yam, sorghum, and palm oil can extend its dominance to other agricultural products. 

“Contextually speaking, Nigeria is the second largest producer of sorghum, contributing around 10% to global production, and the largest producer of yam, accounting for more than 70% of global production. It also ranks among the top five global producers of palm oil.”

“By capitalizing on these strengths, Nigeria could replicate the success of Brazil with soybeans or Indonesia with palm oil. By processing and exporting more value-added products like cassava or palm oil-based goods, Nigeria could significantly boost the country’s foreign exchange earnings.”

While enunciating the imperatives required to boost Nigeria’s non-oil sectors, the renowned fellow of both the Nigerian Society of Engineers (FNSE) and the Nigerian Institution of Safety Engineers (FNISafetyE) adduced that enhancing infrastructure in tech and innovation will be vital for sustaining growth in such a rapidly developing sector. He also highlighted that the agricultural sector for example faces several challenges that must be overcome, including the lack of processing facilities, which limits the value of Nigeria’s agricultural products on the global market. 

“Investment in improved storage and transportation systems can reduce post-harvest losses and boost export competitiveness. Similarly, improving port facilities and upgrading transport links will streamline export processes and enhance export efficiency.”

Speaking further, the erudite scholar harped on the role of regulatory agencies like NAFDAC and SON on the enforcement of higher product standards to ensure that Nigerian goods meet global quality expectations.  

He equally highlighted that access to finance remains a challenge because high interest rates discourage investment and hinder the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in non-oil sectors. 

On the issue of funding, the multiple excellence award winner suggested the strengthening of institutions like NEXIM bank and the Bank of Industry to provide the necessary financial support to help SMEs scale and increase exports. 

In a final analysis, Dr Enang submitted that investing in Nigeria’s non-oil sectors was not just a path to economic diversification, but also a solution to stabilize the Naira. 

“By focusing on building infrastructure, improving the regulatory environment, and fostering innovation across agriculture, manufacturing and technology, Nigeria can reduce its dependence on oil and strengthen its economic foundations. Similarly, by reinvigorating the non-oil sectors, Nigeria has the potential to not only stabilize the Naira, but also build a more resilient and sustainable economy for the future.”

COORDINATOR OFFICE OF THE FIRST LADY OF AKWA IBOM STATE, CHARGES WOMEN ON CONSISTENCY IN SERVICE FOR EFFECTIVE RESULTS

COORDINATOR OFFICE OF THE FIRST LADY OF AKWA IBOM STATE,  CHARGES WOMEN ON CONSISTENCY IN SERVICE FOR EFFECTIVE RESULTS 

Being persistent, focused, resolute, not compromising nor distracted have been identified as consistent and sustainable efforts that can propel individuals towards achieving success. 

The Coordinator, Office of the First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, Lady Helen Eno Obareki made the submission, Saturday, 1st February 2025, while presenting a keynote address during the 4th Annual Area Women Fellowship Rally of Qua Iboe Church Uyo Metropolitan Area Conference, which had as its theme, "Consistency in Service" and took place at Qua Iboe Church, Ewet Offot, Uyo. 

Represented by Evangelist Becky Udom, Lady Obareki noted that consistency means standing firm, building an increasing value and a pathway to success, charging the women to be steadfast, unmovable, always abiding and persistent in their service to God inspite of prevailing circumstances.

 

Citing the biblical example of Ruth whose steadfastness unlocked her pathway to greatness, Lady Obareki highlighted that consistency brings introduction, recognition, recommendation, guidance, preservation, provision, favour, reward and protection.

She further described consistency as a  long-term commitment of identifying goals and working towards achieving them, stressing that staying focused requires a sustained effort in doing an action repeatedly until the target is achieved. 

"If you are persistent you will get it and if you are consistent, you will keep it. No matter what you see stand firm. It is not what you do once in a while that shapes your lives, it is what we do consistently and repeatedly.” How consistent are you in your service to God? 

"If you check the activities around you, be it career, business or spirituality, it will be clear that consistency builds an increased volume but inconsistency depletes. Whatever you do in life steadily or regularly, gathers strength and attracts increase regularly, if you slack or do less, you create room for failure, therefore consistency is the pathway to success in life. Eye service will always bring you down but God's service will stand you out", she noted. 

The chairman on the occasion, Mrs Akaninyene Uwemedimo Udo, charged the women to be consistent in their responsibilities and strive to leave remarkable imprints through living by example and remaining steadfast in their  identified area of calling in order to be relevant in an era that is evolving with technological advancements.

Welcoming guests to the event, the President of Uyo Metropolitan Area Conference of the Qua Iboe Church, Deaconess Aniedi Inyang, stated that the spiritual convocation which targets strengthening the bond of fellowship to God, would also feature a fund raising for the women’s Renewable Energy Project of uninterrupted power supply in the church and empowerment of women interested in the field of solar installation.

Earlier in an exhortation on the theme, "Consistency in Service", drawn from 1Cor 15:58, Deaconess Aniefiok Udoh reiterated that one of the ways one can experience God's visitation is being consistent at one’s place of service, citing Dorcas, Sarah, Ruth and Priscilla, as those who God visited in their place of service due to their consistency, admonishing believers to cultivate a personal relationship with God in order to overcome challenges.

The service featured praise and worship session, the presentation of financial support to 17 women selected from the 17 churches from the two superintendencies that make up the Uyo Metropolitan Area Conference, as well as a fruit and food bazaar displayed by the women.

Funds were also raised for the womens Renewable Energy project where the Female Stakeholders in the entourage of the Coordinator - Dr Inemesit Uwah, Dr Glory Edet, Mrs Unyime Akpan and Mrs Emem Idiong, took turns to make donations in support of the First Lady Designate’s donation to Women Fellowship’s project.

Media Unit 

Office of the First Lady, AKS

PASTOR UMO ENO'S REVOLUTIONARY SECURITY COMMAND CENTER: A NEW DAWN FOR AKWA IBOM STATE

PASTOR UMO ENO'S REVOLUTIONARY SECURITY COMMAND CENTER: A NEW DAWN FOR AKWA IBOM STATE

Micheal Joseph Okon - Ituk mbang, Uruan.

As a huge fan of intelligence movies, I'm thrilled to see Pastor Umo Eno's vision for a safer Akwa Ibom State become a reality. Just like the CIA and FBI blockbusters that keep me on the edge of my seat, Pastor Umo Eno's command center is set to revolutionize security in our beloved state.

With the command center, Akwa Ibomites can finally breathe a sigh of relief knowing that their safety is a top priority. This initiative is a testament to Pastor Umo Eno's commitment to our welfare and security.

This initiative is particularly significant in the context of Akwa Ibom State, where security has been a pressing concern threatening the well-established peaceful ambience. By establishing a command center, Pastor Umo Eno has taken a proactive step towards addressing this issue.

The command center's blueprint is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, enabling security personnel to respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies. This not only enhances public safety but also boosts confidence in the government's ability to protect its citizens.

One of the key benefits of the command center is its ability to facilitate real-time monitoring of security situations across the state. This enables security personnel to respond promptly to threats, minimizing the risk of harm to citizens.

The command center also serves as a coordination hub, bringing together various security agencies and stakeholders to share intelligence and coordinate responses to security threats. This collaborative approach ensures a more effective and efficient response to emergencies.

Furthermore, the command center provides a platform for citizens to report security concerns and receive timely assistance. This fosters a sense of community and trust between citizens and the government.

Pastor Umo Eno's thoughtfulness in establishing the command center is evident in its design and functionality. The center is billed to be equipped with advanced technology, including surveillance cameras and emergency response systems.

The command center will also be staffed by trained personnel who are equipped to handle a range of security situations. This ensures that citizens receive prompt and professional assistance in the event of an emergency.

In addition to its role in enhancing public safety, the command center also serves as a symbol of Pastor Umo Eno's commitment to transparency and accountability.

The establishment of the command center is also in line with Pastor Umo Eno's ARISE Agenda, which prioritizes the welfare and security of Akwa Ibomites.

As Akwa Ibomites, we are fortunate to have a governor who prioritizes our safety and security. Pastor Umo Eno's leadership in establishing the command center demonstrates his dedication to our well-being.

The command center is a shining example of what can be achieved when leadership and technology come together to address pressing social issues.

While celebrating Pastor Umo Eno's achievements, we must also acknowledge the impact of his leadership on our lives. The command center is just one example of his vision and commitment to our state.

A security command center is extremely vital in a state like Akwa Ibom, as it serves as a hub for monitoring, coordinating, and responding to security threats in real-time. Here are 12 benefits of a security command center for the masses:

1. Enhanced Public Safety: A command center enables swift response to emergencies, ensuring the safety of citizens.

2. Crime Reduction: Real-time monitoring and analysis help identify and prevent criminal activities.

3. Improved Emergency Response: The command center facilitates rapid response to accidents, fires, and medical emergencies.

4. Increased Transparency: Citizens can access information on crime statistics and security operations.

5. Better Traffic Management: Real-time traffic monitoring helps optimize traffic flow and reduce congestion.

6. Protection of Critical Infrastructure: The command center safeguards vital infrastructure, ensuring uninterrupted supply of essential services.

7. Enhanced Border Security: Monitoring of borders helps prevent smuggling, human trafficking, and other cross-border crimes.

8. Support for Vulnerable Groups: The command center provides special assistance to vulnerable populations.

9. Job Creation: A security command center generates employment opportunities for security personnel, analysts, and technicians.

10. Economic Growth: A safe and secure environment attracts businesses, investments, and tourists, boosting the state's economy.

11. Improved Disaster Response: The command center enables effective response to natural disasters.

12. Community Engagement: The command center fosters collaboration between security agencies, community leaders, and citizens.

In conclusion, Pastor Umo Eno's security command center is a game-changer for Akwa Ibom State. By providing a hub for monitoring, coordinating, and responding to security threats in real-time, the command center enhances public safety, reduces crime, and promotes transparency and accountability.

As Akwa Ibomites, we are fortunate to have a governor who prioritizes our safety and security. Pastor Umo Eno's thoughtfulness and leadership in establishing the command center are a testament to his dedication to our well-being.

We look forward to seeing the continued positive impact of the command center on our state and our lives. Thank you, Pastor Umo Eno, for your vision and commitment to a safer, more secure Akwa Ibom.

Long live Akwa Ibom State!

Congratulations to our golden Governor. What a way to start the new month!

© Micheal Joseph Okon

Obong Uwana Ituk mbang

International President, Coalition of Youth Leaders (CYL) in Akwa Ibom State