NIGERIA, UYO – The recent directive by Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, to open a portal for indigenous contractors to register and bid for projects has sparked a wave of reactions from the public.
The announcement, made during his inspection of the ARISE Senior Citizens’ Center in Uyo, was met with both praise and skepticism from citizens.
Governor Eno commended U&K Limited for its impressive work on the project and emphasized the need to support local contractors.
He noted that the initiative would create more job opportunities, particularly for young people, and encourage entrepreneurship in the construction sector. “Once you fix your mind on doing something, you can do it.
He has over 500 workers here,” the Governor stated, referring to the contractor’s employment impact on the local community.
However, on social media, responses to the policy were mixed. While some praised the Governor’s focus on local content development, others raised concerns about quality control and proper project supervision.
A social media user, Eno Peter, expressed doubts about the durability of roads built by indigenous contractors in the past.
He pointed out that roads constructed during former Governor Victor Attah’s administration had deteriorated significantly, unlike those built by foreign firms during the tenure of Godswill Akpabio. “While we patronize indigenous contractors, let us ensure we enforce Total Quality Management (TQM). Projects like roads should last about 30 years,” he cautioned.
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Similarly, Goddie Okon Snr warned about potential pitfalls, drawing comparisons to a similar policy under Attah’s administration. “I totally supported the policy then and still do now, but please look before you leap,” he advised.
Despite the skepticism, some citizens welcomed the initiative as a step towards economic empowerment and transparency. Victor David lauded the proposed portal, highlighting its alignment with local content development and the Public Procurement Act of 2007.
Meanwhile, Arthur Idorenyin urged the Governor to personally inspect projects to prevent corruption and inefficiency.
As the state moves forward with this policy, public sentiment suggests strong support for local empowerment, but also a demand for accountability and long-term quality assurance in project execution.