Derivation fund: Gov. Eno advocates direct payment to oil-producing communities

Gov. Umo Eno, of Akwa Ibom, has suggested that payment from the 13 per cent derivation fund should be made directly to the oil-producing communities.

The governor stated this on Thursday while addressing a cross-section of students at the University of Uyo, shortly after his PhD Seminar presentation.

He said that there was need to provide a sincere legal framework to make oil-producing communities to benefit directly from the fund.

”The framework will enable oil producing communities, traditional rulers, youth associations, community development councils, among others to directly benefit from the fund,” he said.

The governor urged youths in the state to engage in self-development in order to take advantage emerging global opportunities.

Eno said that it was highly advisable for youths to upgrade themselves in preparation for opportunities.

“We have to learn how to prepare and wait for opportunities because in life, opportunities may never wait for anyone.

“Although it is good to ask governments to build the youth, it is also very good for the youth to build themselves in order to fit into today’s highly competitive society,” he said.

Eno restated his administration’s commitment towards the educational development of the state through the ARISE Agenda.

He promised that bursary payment to Akwa Ibom students and other education support programmes would be implemented under his watch as the governor.

The governor said that his visit to the university was part of his desire and commitment towards self-development

“I finished my course work some years ago but could not proceed with the other requirements for the award of a PhD due to my political engagements.

“Having done my seminar presentation today, I am now ready to complete the entire process,” he said.

The governor presented a seminar paper titled: “Natural Resources Governance and Socio-Economic Development of Oil-Producing Communities in Akwa Ibom”