The Akwa Ibom State Government has announced the approval of 357 youth-led projects across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) as part of efforts to promote youth empowerment and sustainable development.

The decision was taken during the State Executive Council meeting at Government House, Uyo, presided over by Governor Umo Eno.

Governor Eno stressed the need for teamwork and collaboration, urging council members to leverage each other’s strengths to achieve the goals of the ARISE Agenda, which is aimed at driving holistic development across the state.

Among the key resolutions, the Council ratified the Project Agreement and Contract Award for the 350-bed Ibom International Hospital, which is envisioned as a first-class medical facility to reduce medical tourism outside Nigeria.

Other highlights include:

Roads & Infrastructure: The Ministry of Works reported that 771km of road projects are ongoing across all 31 LGAs. The Governor directed the Works and Budget Commissioners to align road priorities with the upcoming 2026 People’s Budget.

Energy & Power: Approval was given to host a State Power Summit to accelerate reliable electricity delivery, attract investors, and create a roadmap for sustainable energy in Akwa Ibom.

Tourism: An Inter-Ministerial Committee was inaugurated to prepare for the upcoming Tourism Summit in partnership with the Tony Blair Institute, positioning Akwa Ibom as a major tourism hub.

Sports & Youth Engagement: Council approved the procurement of equipment for 30 sports categories ahead of the September 8 Akwa Ibom Sports Festival to boost youth participation and talent discovery.

Maritime Development: Expedited work was ordered on the Oron Maritime Terminal and associated jetties to unlock opportunities in the state’s blue economy.

Security & Mining: A State Committee on Combating Illegal Mining was inaugurated to regulate and monitor mineral exploration. The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, also commended Akwa Ibom as one of the safest states in Nigeria.

Transportation: Approval was given to increase the number of CNG-powered city buses from 20 to 50 to provide clean, affordable transport across all LGAs.

Governor Umo Eno reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive growth:

“Step by step, we are building the Akwa Ibom of our dreams—transparent, people-focused, and forward-moving,” he said.

Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah, added that every decision taken reflects the government’s focus on the economic, social, and security needs of the people.

With these projects, the Akwa Ibom government is demonstrating its resolve to empower youths, improve infrastructure, and build a more sustainable future for its citizens.