Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has been honoured by two major nursing bodies for what they described as his administration’s bold investments in healthcare infrastructure and human capacity development across the state.
The recognition came on the sidelines of a stakeholders’ engagement in Uyo on Tuesday, where the government presented updates on the ARISE 2.0 development blueprint and projects lined up for commissioning in September 2026.
The Body of Heads of Nursing Services Department and Principals of Schools in Federal Health Institutions, BOHNAPFHI, singled out the Governor for his leadership in repositioning the health sector. In the same event, the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, NANNM, conferred on him the Nurse Friendly Governor Award.
Representatives of both organizations said the awards were in response to visible projects on ground. They specifically mentioned the ongoing Ibom Medical City, the upgrade of primary healthcare centres in several local government areas, and deliberate policies aimed at improving the welfare and working conditions of nurses and other health workers.
Receiving the honours, Governor Eno said the recognition belongs to the people of Akwa Ibom. He noted that his administration would not relent in putting resources into the health sector because a healthy population remains the foundation for economic growth and social stability in the state.
The stakeholders meeting also served as a review platform for ARISE 2.0, the second phase of the administration’s agenda. Government officials disclosed that several health and infrastructure projects under the plan will be ready for commissioning next month, with emphasis on expanding access to quality care at the grassroots.
Health stakeholders at the event described the Governor’s approach as timely, given the nationwide shortage of health workers. They expressed hope that sustained investment in facilities, training, and staff welfare will make Akwa Ibom a reference point for healthcare delivery in the South South.
