UYO, NIGERIA – Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, says his administration has executed projects without borrowing, and denied reports that the state receives N200 billion monthly.
Speaking Thursday, May 22, 2025, at his investiture as Patron of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) in Uyo, Eno stated, “We have not in the last two years borrowed a dime from anybody.”
He credited increased revenues to President Bola Tinubu’s financial reforms. “This wouldn’t have been possible if our President didn’t take serious decisions to maximize revenue,” he said.
Eno said the state created a funding pool from federal allocations to finance infrastructure. He highlighted ongoing projects like the 5,000-seat International Conference Centre and 200-room hotel aimed at boosting tourism.
“We’re deliberate about developing tourism infrastructure,” he added. “These assets will make Akwa Ibom a top destination.”
However, the government dismissed reports that the state receives N200 billion monthly, calling them “false and misleading.”
Chief Press Secretary Ekerete Udoh and Information Commissioner Aniekan Umanah said The Crest Newspaper misrepresented the Governor’s comments.
“At no point did the Governor state or suggest such a figure,” Umanah said at Government House, Uyo.
He clarified the event was a Project Delivery Review, not an Executive Council meeting.
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Umanah reaffirmed the administration’s respect for political structures and ethical standards. “We urge journalists to report facts and avoid sensationalism,” he said.
Online, citizens demanded full revenue disclosure to counter speculation. “Post monthly FAAC allocations instead of just debunking,” John Bassey said.
Effiong Abednego added, “Do you fear accountability? Tell us how much the state receives.”
The NIPR event, themed “Beyond Headlines: Harnessing Public Relations for Economic Renaissance,” drew top officials and media professionals nationwide.