UYO: Akwa Ibom state Governor, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, said his government will inject N50 billion into an ongoing public infrastructure projects in Akwa Ibom State.
To expedite completion of public infrastructure between now and December 2024, the Governor however, set out condition for the contractors.
He warned, “you must undertake not to embark on Christmas vacation this year, instead take advantage of the dry season to complete the assignments,” on the public infrastructure
At a groundbreaking ceremony for the Aviation Village at Victor Attah International Airport (VAIA), Uyo, the Governor said, “We are releasing N50 billion into the hands of contractors to ensure they don’t go on Christmas vacation.”
He added, “We will only pay contractors who sign undertakings to stay back and complete their projects.”
Moreover, “We are injecting over N220 billion into road projects in next year’s budget, making Akwa Ibom a construction hub for major projects.”
Governor expressed hope that by 2025, his government aims to consolidate efforts on the Aviation Village.
The Aviation Village in two phases, will include housing estates for aviation workers in the first phase, while in the second phase, primary school, shopping mall, and recreational facilities will be developed.
Mr Ekerette Udoh, Chief Press Secretary on social media post said the Governor is poised to set up a project monitoring team to ensure maximum compliance by the contractors.
“This site was once a bush, but you have transformed it,” the Governor told RAS Premium Construction Limited.
“Your dedication is evident, and I encourage you to remain on-site because you won the bid and have met our conditions.”
“We are reaffirming our commitment to making Akwa Ibom the aviation hub of Nigeria,” he said.“Today, by God’s grace, Ibom Air boasts a fleet of nine aircraft.”
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Also, the Governor reiterated his dedication to workers’ welfare, and announced plans for a 13th-month salary and an N80,000 minimum wage once the ongoing workforce audit is concluded.
Meanwhile, “Once the verification exercise is completed, we will pay the N80,000 minimum wage,” Dr. Iniobong Essien, Chairman of Ibom Airport Development Company dish-out conditions.
Truth Live News gathered that he argued that it was illogical to continue paying workers who had left for greener pastures abroad.
The Chairman of Uruan Local Government Council, Surveyor Iniobong Ekpeyong, assured the Governor of the host communities’ collaboration for timely project completion.
The people of Nsit Ntai, Uruan, and Okobo, where the Aviation Village is sited expressed gratitude to the Governor for the development.
Chief Ganem Ras of RAS Premium Construction Services pledged to exceed expectations in delivering the Aviation Village project, aligning it with the Arise Agenda blueprint.