The Akwa Ibom State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining its collaboration with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to drive economic development in the state.
Governor Umo Eno made this pledge during a meeting with USAID Mission Director to Nigeria, Melissa Jones, represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Akon Eyakenyi.
Governor Eno expressed gratitude for USAID’s ongoing support in fostering inclusive economic growth, improving nutrition, enhancing security, and promoting accountable governance in Nigeria. He emphasized the importance of a continued partnership, urging USAID to involve the state more closely in the development of its work plan to ensure that projects align with the state’s ARISE Agenda.
He stated, “If we work together in the development of your work plan, it will make more impactful on the people,” highlighting that such collaboration would ensure the success of the agency’s initiatives in the state.
Governor Eno also outlined his administration’s key achievements in agriculture, health, education, and security, noting that partnership with USAID would further bolster economic progress and improve the quality of life for Akwa Ibom citizens. He mentioned the declaration of work-free farm days and the rapid progress at the Ibom model farm, which aims to be an improved version of the Songhai farms in Benin Republic.
USAID Mission Director, Melissa Jones, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to supporting the state’s primary healthcare, nutrition, and economic development efforts. She highlighted that USAID had invested about $8 billion in Nigeria to combat HIV infections, emphasizing Akwa Ibom as a vital partner in addressing challenges affecting women, children, and families.
The meeting was attended by key officials, including the Commissioners for Health, Agriculture, Women Affairs, and Economic Development, as well as the Economic Adviser to the Governor and Permanent Secretaries.