Sir: In previous years, governors of Akwa Ibom State have been commended for their achievements in infrastructure and human development. They have built roads, airports, stadiums, and schools, and have also provided free education to some extent, transforming the state and improving the lives of its people.

However, amid these accomplishments, there are crucial areas that require attention. One of these is the further development of our state’s economy. I firmly believe that this can be accelerated through significant efforts to develop the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) sector in Akwa Ibom. Therefore, I urge you to use your influence to revitalise the companies that once thrived here and provided employment opportunities for our people.

Among these companies are Nigeria Paper Mills in Oku-Ibuku, the Aluminum Sheltering Company in Ikot Abasi, Sunshine Battery Company in Ikot Ekpene, Atim Ekpo Palm Oil Mills in Abak, and others.

Your administration has emphasised agricultural development to boost the state’s Gross Domestic Products (GDP), and when these companies were operational, they contributed positively to the state’s economy. I am convinced that their revival will have a significant and beneficial impact. Furthermore, their resurgence will likely attract more businesses to open in Akwa Ibom.

Past governors have raised the standard of excellence in governance since the state was created. Governor Eno, should you accomplish this, your name will be etched in history as a champion of economic revival, and also a petrol tank farm in the state to ease the problem of travelling to Port Harcourt for loading; and  future generations will remember your contributions.

God bless Akwa Ibom State, and God bless Nigeria.

•Effiong Edeson is the president of Nka Ibibio Association, behind NAF Base, Ikeja, Lagos.