Showcases ARISE Agenda at NUT Conference, Unveils Plans for Secondary School Revamp
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, Ph.D., has restated his administration’s unwavering commitment to education as the bedrock of human and societal development. The governor made this known during the 8th Quadrennial State Delegate Conference of the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), Akwa Ibom State Wing, held at the Council Hall of Uruan Local Government Secretariat.
Represented by the Hon. Commissioner for Education, Professor Ubong Umoh, Governor Eno applauded the remarkable turnout of educators and praised teachers for their resilience, dedication, and historic role in shaping society. He commended the NUT for promoting democratic ideals through consistent delegate elections and offering a strong platform for member engagement since its founding in 1931.
“Education remains the fulcrum of our development strategy under the ARISE Agenda. Our investment in this sector is deliberate, forward-thinking, and people-centered,” the governor noted.
Highlighting strides made by his administration, Governor Eno spoke of the construction of modern model primary schools across the state—institutions designed to foster academic excellence through well-equipped, world-class facilities. These schools, he said, are building the confidence of young learners and laying a solid foundation for the future.
He further announced that the model school initiative will soon be extended to secondary education across the state. “Once we complete the primary school phase, we will roll out similar models for secondary schools. Akwa Ibom will set the pace in educational transformation,” he assured.
Governor Eno also underscored the significant reduction in the number of out-of-school children in the state. Citing Vice President Kashim Shettima’s recent visit, the governor noted that Akwa Ibom has reduced its out-of-school population to just 3.5%—well below the national average of 25.6%—thanks to focused policies and increased access to quality education.
Earlier in his address, the NUT State Chairman, Comrade Edet O. Emenyi, expressed gratitude to the state government for its unwavering support. He listed major achievements including the prompt payment of salaries, refund of 7.5% contributory pension funds to teachers, land acquisition for the union in Abuja, and extension of the retirement age for teachers from 60 to 65 years.
Speaking on the theme of the conference, “Translating Education Local Content for Educational Advancement and National Development: Akwa Ibom State Strategy,” Comrade Emenyi lauded the administration’s proactive steps to enhance the education sector.
Chairperson of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Sunny James, also praised the governor’s teacher-friendly policies, including the early implementation of the new minimum wage—exceeding the national benchmark. He pledged continued collaboration with the state government to promote peace and development.
In a goodwill message, Chief Ededem Anthony Asuquo, representing the Paramount Ruler of Uruan, thanked the union for hosting the landmark event in Uruan. He assured delegates of the community’s hospitality and readiness to maintain peace and support government initiatives.
The conference was graced by top dignitaries including Hon. Ekaette Ebong Okon, Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Education Board; Comrade Titus Amba, National President of the NUT; and Comrade Sam Umo Inyang, Ph.D., Senior Assistant Secretary General of the union. Guests were treated to cultural performances from local troupes, adding color and tradition to the memorable occasion.
