In a significant move that has sparked widespread commendation and political momentum, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has been endorsed for a second term by a broad coalition of stakeholders, including traditional rulers, political leaders, and community groups. This endorsement, which took place during a well-attended event in Eket, underscores the governor’s growing popularity and the tangible impact of his administration’s policies, particularly at the grassroots level. A standout announcement from the event was the doubling of the monthly salaries of ward Personal Assistants (PAs) from N250,000 to N500,000, a decision that has been hailed as a game-changer for local governance and community development in Akwa Ibom.
The Endorsement Event
The endorsement event, held in the vibrant town of Eket, was a powerful display of unity among Akwa Ibom’s diverse stakeholders. Traditional rulers, who hold significant influence in the state’s socio-political fabric, were joined by political heavyweights, community leaders, and representatives of various interest groups. Their collective voice sent a clear message: Governor Umo Eno’s leadership has resonated with the people, and they are eager to see him continue his transformative work beyond his current term.
The event was not just a political rally but a celebration of the governor’s achievements since taking office. Stakeholders highlighted his administration’s focus on inclusive governance, infrastructure development, and grassroots empowerment. The endorsement also extended beyond Governor Eno, with attendees voicing support for President Bola Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio for their respective roles in national leadership, signaling a broader alignment with the state’s political aspirations for 2027.
Doubling Ward PAs’ Salaries: A Strategic Move for Grassroots Empowerment
At the heart of the event was the announcement that the monthly salaries of the 368 ward Personal Assistants (PAs) across Akwa Ibom’s wards would be doubled from N250,000 to N500,000. This decision is a cornerstone of Governor Eno’s ARISE Agenda, a development blueprint that prioritizes grassroots engagement, poverty alleviation, and sustainable growth. But what exactly does this mean for Akwa Ibom, and why is it such a significant move?
The Role of Ward Personal Assistants
Ward Personal Assistants are a critical component of Governor Eno’s governance model. These individuals, appointed across the state’s 368 wards, serve as the eyes and ears of the administration at the grassroots level. Their responsibilities include monitoring community issues, reporting local challenges to the state government, and facilitating the implementation of development projects. They act as a bridge between the government and the people, ensuring that policies and programs are tailored to the specific needs of each community.
By increasing their salaries to N500,000 per month, Governor Eno is not only recognizing the importance of their role but also empowering them to perform their duties with greater dedication and efficiency. This financial boost provides PAs with the resources and stability needed to focus on their work, which often involves extensive community engagement, conflict resolution, and project oversight.
Financial Empowerment and Community Impact
The salary increase is more than just a pay raise; it’s a strategic investment in grassroots governance. At N500,000 per month, ward PAs are now among the highest-paid local government operatives in Nigeria, a move that sets Akwa Ibom apart as a state committed to prioritizing its grassroots workforce. This financial empowerment has several ripple effects:
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Improved Performance and Accountability: With a significantly higher salary, PAs are better positioned to carry out their duties without the distraction of financial insecurity. This is expected to enhance their ability to monitor projects, engage with communities, and provide accurate feedback to the state government.
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Economic Boost at the Grassroots: The increased salaries will inject substantial funds into local economies. Each of the 368 PAs will now have more disposable income to spend in their communities, supporting local businesses, markets, and services. This, in turn, aligns with the ARISE Agenda’s goal of reducing poverty and stimulating economic activity at the grassroots level.
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Strengthening Community Unity: The PAs’ role in uniting communities was a key point of discussion at the Eket event. By providing them with financial stability, the government is enabling them to foster stronger community ties, mediate disputes, and promote social cohesion, which are essential for sustainable development.
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Setting a Precedent for Governance: The salary increase sends a powerful message about the value of grassroots workers in governance. It challenges other states to rethink how they compensate and empower local operatives, potentially setting a new standard for public administration in Nigeria.
The ARISE Agenda: A Vision for Transformation
The salary increase for ward PAs is a direct manifestation of Governor Eno’s ARISE Agenda, which stands for Agenda for Renewal, Investment, and Sustainable Empowerment. Launched as the guiding framework for his administration, the ARISE Agenda focuses on transforming Akwa Ibom through targeted investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, and community development. The agenda emphasizes inclusivity, ensuring that no part of the state—particularly rural and underserved areas—is left behind.
The decision to double the PAs’ salaries aligns perfectly with this vision. By empowering grassroots operatives, the government is ensuring that the benefits of its policies reach the farthest corners of Akwa Ibom. The PAs, equipped with better resources, can now play a more active role in implementing the agenda’s key initiatives, such as rural electrification, road construction, and youth empowerment programs.
Moreover, the salary increase reflects Governor Eno’s commitment to human capital development. By investing in the financial well-being of the PAs, the administration is building a motivated and capable workforce that can drive its development goals. This move also demonstrates the governor’s responsiveness to the needs of his appointees, fostering loyalty and trust among those tasked with executing his vision.
A Boost for 2027
The endorsement of Governor Eno for a second term is a significant political development, especially with the 2027 elections on the horizon. The event in Eket showcased the governor’s ability to unite diverse groups, from traditional rulers to political leaders, under a common vision. This broad-based support strengthens his position as a formidable candidate for re-election and signals that his administration’s policies are resonating with the electorate.
The endorsement of President Tinubu and Senate President Akpabio further highlights the interconnectedness of Akwa Ibom’s political landscape with national politics. As a former governor of Akwa Ibom, Akpabio’s influence remains strong, and his alignment with Eno’s administration could bolster the state’s position within the national political framework. Similarly, the endorsement of Tinubu reflects confidence in the federal government’s leadership, potentially paving the way for stronger collaboration between Akwa Ibom and the central government.
However, the endorsements also come with expectations. Stakeholders will be watching closely to see how Governor Eno builds on his first-term achievements. The salary increase for PAs is a strong start, but sustained progress in areas like infrastructure, education, and job creation will be critical to maintaining this support.
Challenges and Considerations
While the salary increase has been widely praised, it is not without challenges. The financial implications of doubling the salaries of 368 PAs are significant, and the state government will need to ensure that this expenditure is sustainable. Critics may question whether the funds could have been allocated to other pressing needs, such as healthcare or education. However, proponents argue that empowering grassroots operatives is a foundational step that will yield long-term benefits across multiple sectors.
Additionally, the effectiveness of the salary increase will depend on the PAs’ ability to deliver on their mandates. The government will need to establish robust mechanisms for monitoring their performance and ensuring accountability. Transparent reporting and regular evaluations will be essential to demonstrate that the investment in PAs is translating into tangible outcomes for communities.
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