A community leader in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Tommy Etim Okon, has commended the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umoh Eno, over plans by the state government to develop an affordable housing estate for Akwa Ibom indigenes residing in Abuja.
Dr. Okon, who was recently appointed Coordinator of the Arise/Renewed Hope Agenda and also serves as Trustee of the Akwa Ibom Community Association in Abuja, described the housing initiative as a landmark project and the first of its kind for the state in the FCT.
Speaking at the weekend during an interactive session with journalists in Abuja, he applauded the governor’s commitment to the welfare of Akwa Ibom people living outside the state, noting that the proposed housing estate would address critical accommodation challenges faced by many indigenes in the nation’s capital.
He, however, urged the governor not to be distracted by critics who may not fully appreciate the significance of the project.
According to Dr. Okon, the housing development would generate thousands of employment opportunities for artisans, unskilled labourers, and professionals in various housing-related fields, particularly benefiting Akwa Ibom indigenes resident in Abuja.
“Apart from creating employment, the project will boost government revenue, provide affordable accommodation for our people in the FCT, promote inclusiveness, and guarantee peaceful co-existence among residents,” he said.
He further called on Governor Umoh Eno to remain focused and committed to the realization of the housing project, stressing that it would significantly alleviate the housing needs of Akwa Ibom people in Abuja.
Dr. Okon also highlighted several achievements of the governor under the Arise Agenda, particularly in the areas of education, infrastructure development, empowerment programmes, and other social investment initiatives.
He maintained that the administration’s policies have fostered unity, stability, and progress across the state.
The community leader urged both indigenes and non-indigenes, at home and in the diaspora, to continue supporting the governor’s administration.
He also called on critics to align with the developmental vision of the state government and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that both leaders have contributed to national growth and citizen welfare.
He concluded that the current leadership has strengthened unity and peace among Akwa Ibom people, adding that such progress deserves sustained support.
