Gov.Eno approves release of N120bn to contractors, N1.5bn for gratuities
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has approved the immediate release of N120 billion for the payment of contractors handling various state projects, alongside an additional N1.5 billion to clear part of the backlog of gratuities owed to retired public servants.
The approval was announced in a statement issued on Tuesday by the State Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah.
According to the statement, the substantial disbursement to contractors is a strategic move to ensure they remain on-site and fully utilize the current dry season to accelerate construction activities.
The government aims to ensure that critical infrastructure projects are delivered within agreed timelines.
However, the government clarified that the N120 billion disbursement is strictly limited to contractors who have submitted duly vetted and approved Interim Payment Certificates (IPCs). The administration expects this intervention to significantly speed up work across the state, reinforcing its commitment to timely project delivery and value for money.
On the welfare of senior citizens, the release of N1.5 billion for gratuities marks another step in reducing the N112 billion backlog of pension liabilities inherited by the administration, which dates back to 2012.
With this latest approval, the total amount disbursed for gratuities by Governor Eno’s administration now stands at N76.665 billion, covering payments up to May 2021.
The Commissioner noted that the dual approval underscores the administration’s resolve to combine fiscal discipline with infrastructure development and social responsibility, in line with the Governor’s ARISE Agenda.
Governor Eno reiterated that the welfare of workers and retirees remains a core priority of his administration, even as he pursues impactful projects to improve the quality of life for Akwa Ibom people.
He further wished the citizens a happy and prosperous 2026, assuring them of continued hard work in the new year.