Senate President Godswill Akpabio proudly claimed on Thursday that Akwa Ibom state only experienced substantial development when he assumed the role of Governor in 2007.
Speaking at a Stakeholders’ Engagement meeting in Eket Local Government, Akpabio highlighted the disparity between the moniker “Land of Promise” and the actual progress witnessed before his tenure, The Punch reports.
He accentuated his contributions, stating, “When I became the governor, did the people of Ibeno not know they could have a hospital? Did the people of Eastern Obolo know they could have a hospital?”
Akpabio reminisced about initiating road dualization, implementing free and compulsory education, and introducing the 13th-month salary initiative, known as Akpabio-members, during his governorship.
Reflecting on his achievements, he pointed out, “Is it not when I became the governor that you saw compulsory education policy? Is it not when I became governor that you knew what is called Akpabio-Ember–13th-month salary?”
The Senate President turned the stakeholders’ engagement into a platform to showcase his accomplishments, mentioning the state’s Guinness World Record for hosting the largest-ever Christmas Carol during his tenure.
Addressing the audience, he remarked, “Was it not when I became the governor that you felt the impact of Christmas celebration, that we could host over 10,000 people in one occasion to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and won the Guinness Book of World Records?”
He also took credit for completing the International Airport, addressing the dangers of traveling to other cities to board planes.
“Mobil now needs to use our airport,” he added
Proclaiming his political influence, Akpabio blamed the Eket senatorial district for not inviting him to their campaign during the last election. He confidently stated, “Is there anywhere I will enter that people will not vote for APC?”
Concluding his address, Akpabio called for unity within the party and emphasized the need for members to remain loyal to their chosen political affiliation.
The APC chairman, Mr. Stephen Ntukekpo, expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and Senate President Akpabio for their inclusive approach, pledging continuous support and loyalty from party members in the state.
