By Princess Don, Uyo.
Mkpat Enin Local Government Area Chairman, Hon. Engr. Emmanuel Inyang, today marked his first 100 days in office with a public briefing outlining the administration’s progress in various sectors.
The event, attended by political leaders, traditional rulers, and community members, stakeholders showcased accomplishments in education, infrastructure, healthcare, and community engagement.
In his address, Hon. Inyang began by thanking God for His grace and the opportunity to serve the people of Mkpat Enin. He also expressed profound gratitude to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno, PhD, for the trust placed in him to lead the local government.
He further thanked the people of Mkpat Enin for their belief in his leadership and for supporting his administration’s vision of a prosperous and united community.
Hon. Inyang highlighted the administration’s focus on fulfilling its campaign promises, emphasizing the commitment to rural development, education, infrastructure improvement, and youth empowerment.
He said that one of the administration’s key priorities has been improving education and announced that the government has provided learning materials to schools in the local government area, and efforts are underway to renovate dilapidated school structures.
In line with the promise to support youth education, the government has also approved the payment of JAMB fees and provided forms for 100 students, helping them take a step closer to their academic goals. Furthermore, 10 tertiary students have received grants of 100,000 naira each to help support their studies.
As part of his commitment to empowering the people, Hon. Inyang revealed that 50 local youths have been appointed to various positions within his administration. Additionally, over 10 job opportunities have been created through agricultural empowerment programs, with plans for more to follow.
Reflecting on his campaign promises, Hon. Inyang emphasized the importance of infrastructure development for economic growth.
He announced the commencement of a 7.95-kilometer road project, which will cover roads in the four clans of Mkpat Enin. According to him, the roadworks are aimed at improving connectivity, enhancing local commerce, and providing better living conditions for residents.
The chairman also pledged to continue working on other infrastructure projects, including the upgrade of Timber Market Road and various access roads.
Hon. Inyang reported the successful completion of a one-week free eye care program, in collaboration with the VCARE for Development Foundation. This initiative provided free eye examinations and glasses to residents, addressing a major health need in the local community. The chairman reiterated his commitment to improving healthcare access and promised continued focus on health initiatives throughout his tenure.
The council Boss also announced the restoration of electricity to several villages that had been without power for over three years due to transformer vandalism. Stating that the restored power supply has brought much-needed relief to these communities.
On security, the chairman affirmed his administration’s ongoing dialogue with security agencies to ensure the safety of residents and tackle any issues of insecurity.
In a major milestone for the local government, Hon. Inyang unveiled the completed Binary International Council Chambers, which will serve as a meeting space for traditional rulers to discuss matters of local development and governance.
The council chairman underscored his administration’s commitment to transparency and inclusivity, stating that an open-door policy has been a cornerstone of his leadership. He expressed appreciation for the support of political stakeholders, royal fathers, and community leaders, emphasizing that the success of the first 100 days was due to the collective effort of all.
To this end, Hon. Inyang reiterated his commitment to improving the welfare of the people of Mkpat Enin. He promised that the administration would continue to work tirelessly to exceed the expectations of the people, laying the foundation for long-term development and prosperity in the local government.
In a heartfelt goodwill message, the Akwa Ibom first lady designate, Mrs. Helen Obareki, commended the Chairman of Mkpat Enin LGA for his commitment to inclusivity, also noting his efforts to unite diverse political factions for the progress of Mkpat Enin.
She described the chairman’s decision to complete ongoing projects initiated by his predecessor, as a testament to his dedication to community development over personal accolades.
Mrs Obareki also unveiled upcoming initiatives from her office, including a forthcoming immunization program against measles and rubella, slated to commence shortly. Additionally, she announced plans for the continuation of menstrual hygiene exercises in local schools, aiming to enhance health and educational outcomes for young girls in the community.
Hon. Uwem Peter Imoh-Ita, the Mkpat Enin House Representative, also delivered a goodwill message, praising the chairman for his exemplary leadership and the peace he has fostered in the local government.
He promised peaceful collaboration and commended the inclusive nature of the administration, noting that people from different political parties were present at the event, a testament to the unity achieved under Hon. Inyang’s leadership.
