Akwa Ibom State governor, Pastor Umo Eno, will on Thursday, February 6, 2025, host an evening of music, recognition, and empowerment at the ARISE Happy Hour & Evening of Rewards.
Consequently, the best civil servants in all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) nominated at the December Ministerial Briefings will receive a ₦1 million reward from Governor Umo Eno, in recognition of their dedication and excellence.
The event, which will feature a live performance by Africa’s highlife sensation, Flavour, is designed to celebrate individuals and groups who have demonstrated excellence in various fields.
The sum of ₦300 million will also be disbursed to 400 trained female youths and Ladies in White under the Ibom LED Entrepreneurship Accelerator Program, with each beneficiary receiving ₦750,000.
Speaking on the significance of the event, the Chairman of the Organizing Committee and Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, described it as a special occasion to acknowledge hard work and inspire greater productivity.
He said, “This will be an exciting evening led by Governor Umo Eno, not just for entertainment but to recognise and uplift those who have distinguished themselves in various fields.”
The SSG assured that each beneficiary of the Ibom LED program will receive ₦750,000 to support their businesses, a move that aligns with Governor Eno’s vision of empowering women, whom he has described as the backbone of the state’s support structure.
Beyond financial empowerment, the event will also serve as a platform to reward excellence across multiple sectors.
The best-performing Local Government Areas from Christmas Unplugged 2024 will be recognised, while 50 winners of the Arise Home Farmers Scheme will each receive a ₦500,000 grant to boost agricultural productivity.
In a demonstration of his commitment to grassroots sports development, Governor Eno will also honour outstanding athletes from the 2024 Governor’s Cup.
“Sports play a vital role in youth development and community building. By recognising these athletes, we are not just celebrating winners but encouraging a culture of excellence and perseverance,” the governor stated.
Governor Eno stressed that the event goes beyond entertainment, describing it as a way of reinforcing his administration’s core values of hard work and dedication.
“We are building a state where commitment and excellence are recognised and rewarded. Every individual and group to be honoured has played a role in shaping a better Akwa Ibom,” he said.
The celebration will be held at the Amphitheater, Udo Udoma Avenue, Uyo, at 6 pm, and is open to the public.
The government has encouraged residents to attend and share in the festivities, which will include music, cultural displays, and testimonials from beneficiaries.
