December 30, 2025

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, PhD, has approved the immediate release of N120 billion for the payment of contractors handling state projects, alongside an additional N1.5 billion for the settlement of outstanding gratuities owed to retired public servants.

The approval, announced in a press release issued by the State Ministry of Information on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, is aimed at accelerating infrastructure delivery across the state and further reducing the backlog of unpaid gratuities inherited by the current administration.

According to the release, the N120 billion payment is strictly for contractors who have submitted duly vetted and approved Interim Payment Certificates. The government explained that the move is intended to enable contractors to remain on site and take full advantage of the dry season to intensify construction activities and deliver projects within agreed timelines.

The intervention is expected to significantly boost progress on critical infrastructure projects across Akwa Ibom State, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to timely project execution and value for public funds.

In addition, the Governor approved the release of N1.5 billion to support the continued payment of gratuities to retired public servants. This latest disbursement further reduces the gratuity backlog of N112 billion inherited by the administration, with records showing that a total of N76.665 billion has now been paid to retirees, covering claims up to May 2021.

Governor Eno has consistently maintained that the welfare of workers and retirees remains a central priority of his administration, alongside the delivery of projects that directly improve the quality of life of the people of Akwa Ibom State.

The development underscores the government’s resolve to balance fiscal discipline with infrastructure expansion and social responsibility, in line with the ARISE Agenda.

The Governor also extended goodwill messages to the people of the state, wishing them a happy and prosperous 2026, while assuring them of his administration’s continued dedication to achieving the full objectives of the ARISE Agenda in the new year.