Akwa Ibom @ 39: Eno Declares September Month of Gratitude, Unveils Anniversary Events
The Akwa Ibom State Government has unveiled a month-long programme of activities to commemorate the 39th anniversary of the creation of the state, with 39 landmark projects scheduled for commissioning across the state between September 1 and 30, 2026.
The anniversary celebration, themed “Gratitude,” is anchored on the biblical passage, “Give Thanks to the Lord, For He is Good; For His Mercy Endures Forever” from Psalm 136:1 (KJV).
The programme, released by the state government, highlights the administration’s achievements under the ARISE Agenda 1.0, with project commissioning ceremonies spread across several Local Government Areas.
According to the government, the anniversary provides an opportunity for the people of Akwa Ibom to thank God for His faithfulness while celebrating the state’s growth, development and achievements over the past 39 years.
A major highlight of the celebration will be the expected visit of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, who is scheduled to inaugurate some of the state’s major landmark projects.
Among the projects listed for commissioning by the President are the International Airport Hospital, International Terminal Building, 3.8km Parallel Taxiway and Rapid Exit New Apron, 1.8km Airport Access Road and Aviation Village at the Victor Attah International Airport.
Others include the 14.5km Airport–Okopedi Road in Nsit Atai and Okobo Local Government Areas; 7.868km Ring Road 3, linking Idoro Road to Ikot Ekpene Road in Uyo and Ibiono Ibom; the Command and Control Centre; Governor’s Office Annex; AkwaGIS Building; and ARISE Palm Resort.
The month-long programme will commence on Tuesday, September 1, with the official reception and cannon water ceremony for the brand-new Airbus A220-300 acquired for Ibom Air at the Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo. A September 2026 Covenant Service will also hold later that day.
Other activities include the commissioning of primary healthcare centres, model primary schools, ARISE Youth Development Centres, road projects and erosion control facilities across different parts of the state.
The programme also features the commissioning of the 6.475km roads in Amanyam Community, Ikot Abasi; ARISE Youth Development Centre in Ikono; Model Primary School in Nsit Atai; Model Primary Health Centre in Abak; Model Primary School in Obot Akara; Model Health Centre in Esit Eket, among others.
Also scheduled are the commissioning of major road infrastructure, including the 5.5km Udo Inwang Road and erosion control facilities in Uyo, the 14.8km internal roads and spurs in Awa, Onna, and the 10.83km Mkpat Enin–Ikot Ekpe–Ikot Afang–Ikot Umiang–Mbioto–Efa Road and spur to Ikot Enyienge, including a 30-metre bridge.
The celebration will also feature the 39th Anniversary Interdenominational Service, a visit to the State Traditional Rulers’ Council, the State Anniversary Banquet and the unveiling/turning of sod for the construction of the International Market in Ikot Ekpene.
The state government called on sons and daughters of Akwa Ibom, as well as friends, associates and well-wishers, to participate fully in the anniversary celebration.
The government described the anniversary as “a time to show gratitude”, expressing optimism that the activities would further showcase the state’s progress and the impact of the present administration under Governor Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, Ph.D.
