Tourism, Agriculture Top Agenda as APC Clears Eno for Second Term Bid

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno, has outlined tourism, agriculture and infrastructure as key priorities for his second-term agenda while expressing confidence in the All Progressives Congress (APC) screening process that cleared him ahead of the 2027 elections.

Eno spoke to journalists in Abuja after appearing before the APC National Working Committee (NWC) screening panel, describing the exercise as smooth, routine and reflective of strong coordination within the ruling party.

He commended the party leadership for what he said was a transparent process that reinforces unity among serving governors and the national leadership.

“It was perfect, and I think it is a normal procedure. I’m satisfied, and I thank the National Working Committee and its chairman. It brings synergy between the sitting governors and the National Working Committee,” he said.

The governor noted that the exercise further demonstrated alignment between APC governors and the party structure at the national level, stressing that such cohesion is essential for political stability and governance delivery.

“There is no sitting governor who is not in sync with the National Working Committee. This exercise consolidates that and shows there is a flow between us as progressives,” Eno stated.

Turning to the 2027 presidential race, Eno expressed optimism about the chances of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying ongoing reforms are gradually yielding results despite current economic challenges.

“Things are difficult, we must admit, but it is improving from where this President took over. There is a pathway, and there is light at the end of the tunnel,” he said.

He added that Nigerians were beginning to appreciate the need for continuity to allow the administration’s policies to fully mature and deliver broader impact.

On his own governorship ambition, Eno said his focus would be on consolidating gains recorded under his administration’s development blueprint and advancing a new phase of reforms tagged “ARISE Agenda 2.0.”

He said tourism would be a major pillar of his second-term plan, describing it as a viable alternative revenue source to oil for Akwa Ibom State.

“God willing, we will tidy up all the work we have done and position our state properly for tourism, which is an alternative to oil,” he said.

He also listed agriculture, healthcare, infrastructure development and internally generated revenue growth as priority sectors for sustained development.

“We will continue to put our people on the path of growth and success,” the governor added.