Akwa Ibom Gov charges new exco members on ARISE Agenda implementation

<p>Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has charged members of the state executive council to embrace the new phase of the administration and work towards turning around the economic fortunes of the State.</p>, <p>The Governor gave this charge while inaugurating the State Executive Council, which comprises Twenty-Three Commissioners and One Special Adviser, at the Banquet hall, Government House, Uyo.</p>, <p>He emphasized that the A. R. I. S. E. Agenda blueprint of his administration aims to stimulate the rural economy and bring about a turnaround in the rural areas through integration and massive development.</p>, <p>“Let me state here very firmly, all political appointees must go back and stimulate rural development in their respective wards and local government councils. That responsibility starts with you!</p>, <p>“You must work with the people in your respective wards; you must let the people feel the impact of governance.</p>, <p>“Governance starts at the grassroots; you must be a symbol of government in your local government and ward levels, and must engage your people regularly. We will monitor this closely, so please take this very seriously.” the governor stated.</p>, <p>He explained that he decided to kickstart the administration with his former colleagues, having worked with them and known their capabilities in certain areas. He added that it would be unfair of him to disparage their sacrifices which culminated in his victory at the gubernatorial poll.</p>, <p>“I have been asked this question severally: “Your Excellency, we had expected to see the injection of new blood into the State EXCO, why are you bringing back the same old blood?”</p>, <p>“My answer has been standard and direct: You do not abandon your foot soldiers shortly after the successful execution of a major contest. I know this ‘old blood’ very well. We went to the battle to continue good governance together, we were in the trenches together; we swatted away the bullets of vicious attacks together, most of you spent long hours trave