UYO – The British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Lagos Office, Mr. Jonny Baxter, has lauded Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for his bold, people-centered infrastructural strides and strategic investments in tourism, agriculture, and aviation, describing his leadership under the ARISE Agenda as impactful and visionary.
Mr. Baxter, who led a delegation on a courtesy call to Government House, Uyo, on Thursday, expressed admiration for the State’s serene environment, strong road network, and world-class aviation initiative, particularly Ibom Air, which he described as “one of the best carriers in this part of the world.”
According to him, “Ibom Air is not only a pride to Akwa Ibom people but a vital gateway for boosting tourism and hospitality in the State. I have barely been here for 24 hours, but I am already impressed by the infrastructure, the lush green environment, and the clear agricultural potential Akwa Ibom offers.”
The envoy reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s readiness to partner with the State Government in expanding trade and investment opportunities, noting that the Lagos office of the British Commission has a commercial focus on fostering stronger business ties with Southern Nigeria.
Receiving the delegation, Governor Umo Eno underscored Nigeria’s historic relationship with the United Kingdom, stressing that his administration has continued to deepen that bond at the sub-national level. He cited ongoing collaborations with the Tony Blair Institute in the area of tourism development.
Governor Eno disclosed that his government had recently sponsored Akwa Ibom students to the UK on educational tours to broaden their global exposure and inspire ambition. “That initiative was to show them that their background does not limit their future if they are disciplined and committed to learning. We are planning another trip and look forward to possible partnership with the Commission,” he said.
Highlighting the State’s economic expansion plans, the Governor unveiled projects such as the Liberty Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone, Ibom Industrial City, and the Itam Industrial Park in Uyo, with an emphasis on developing off-grid power solutions to attract industries.
He also emphasized Akwa Ibom’s pioneering role in aviation, pointing out the near-completion of the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility and a world-class terminal building. “We are creating Nigeria’s first sub-national aviation ecosystem. Beyond Ibom Air, we want global managers and partners for our MRO and terminal operations,” the Governor explained.
On tourism, Governor Eno expressed confidence that the ARISE Resort, transformed from a 70-hectare erosion-ravaged land into a model destination, would become Nigeria’s premier tourist hub upon completion later this year.
Mr. Baxter, after watching a brief documentary on the State’s developmental achievements, embarked on a guided tour of facilities, including the ARISE Resort, where he commended the Governor’s innovative transformation efforts.
The envoy was accompanied by Mr. Mark Smithson, Country Director, Department for Business and Trade, Lagos; Dr. Fortune Alfred, Senior Political Adviser, British High Commission South-South Regional Office; and Mr. Wale Adebajo, Senior Political Adviser, British Deputy High Commission, Lagos.
In attendance on the State’s side were the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; Executive Assistant/Chief Delivery Adviser, Mr. Aniefiok Johnson; members of the State Executive Council, and other government officials.
