Uyo, October 14, 2025 — In a major stride toward strengthening human capital development under the ARISE Agenda, the Akwa Ibom State Government has approved the upgrading of the College of Education, Afaha Nsit, to the Akwa Ibom State University of Education.
The announcement was made by the Commissioner for Information, Aniekan Umanah, during a press briefing with Government House correspondents at the end of the State Executive Council meeting held at the Executive Council Chambers, Governor’s Office, Uyo.
Umanah said the institution’s elevation is part of ongoing efforts to enhance the quality and standard of teacher education in the state. The Council also approved the regularization of the newly upgraded institution.
As part of the restructuring process, Governor Umo Eno approved the constitution of a special committee to realign ministerial responsibilities and address overlapping roles in the public service. The committee is chaired by the Secretary to the State Government, with members including the Head of Civil Service, Executive Assistant to the Governor, Attorney General, Solicitor-General, and Managing Director of AKICORP. The committee has six weeks to submit its report.
In another key development, the Executive Council approved the establishment of the Office of the Public Defender under the Ministry of Justice. The office will provide free legal representation to indigent residents, help reduce unlawful detentions, protect the rights of vulnerable groups, and promote public awareness of legal rights and responsibilities.
“This is in alignment with the justice, social welfare, safety, and security components of the ARISE Agenda,” Umanah stated.
On the health front, the Council reviewed the implementation report of the State of Emergency in the Health Sector and approved a series of critical actions. These include:
- Recruitment of doctors and other medical professionals
- Implementation of the “skipping policy” for health sector workers
- Increase in special allowances for medical personnel
- Completion of Bills of Quantities (BOQs) for the first phase of hospital and primary healthcare facility rehabilitations
According to Umanah, the state aims to commence health infrastructure interventions by November 1, with the commissioning of the General Hospital in Ukanafun slated for November 10, 2025.
Meanwhile, Governor Umo Eno charged Executive Council members to remain steadfast in their commitment to the ARISE Agenda and focus on efficient service delivery and collaboration for the overall development of Akwa Ibom State.
Government House Correspondent Jane Uwa reports.