Governor Reshuffles Cabinet, Sacks Senior Aide

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has approved a reshuffling of the State Executive Council, a move aimed at boosting governance efficiency and aligning ministries with the developmental priorities of his administration’s ARISE Agenda.

The announcement was made on Monday in a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah. The statement emphasized the governor’s determination to re-energize the council and enhance service delivery through strategic portfolio realignments.

According to the release, Captain Iniobong Ekong (retd.) has been reassigned to head the Ministry of Trade and Investment. His previous portfolio, the Ministry of Lands and Town Planning, will now be overseen by Dr. Ubong Inyang. The reshuffle takes effect immediately, with both commissioners expected to continue driving policies in line with the administration’s vision.

Aligning with the ARISE Agenda

Governor Eno’s decision is widely seen as part of his broader strategy to ensure ministries function in synergy with the ARISE Agenda, his government’s socio-economic development blueprint. The agenda prioritizes job creation, rural development, infrastructure expansion, security enhancement, and educational reforms.

By moving Ekong to Trade and Investment, the governor seeks to leverage his administrative and leadership background in attracting investors, boosting local enterprise, and stimulating economic growth. Similarly, Dr. Inyang’s appointment to Lands and Town Planning is aimed at strengthening urban planning, land management, and sustainable development across the state.

The governor’s office noted that the reshuffle is not a punitive measure but a strategic adjustment designed to improve effectiveness and accelerate the implementation of key policies.

Political analysts believe the move reflects Governor Eno’s hands-on approach to governance. By realigning portfolios, the administration hopes to fast-track projects that directly impact citizens and deliver tangible results within shorter timelines.

As Akwa Ibom continues to position itself as a hub for investment and development in Nigeria’s South-South region, the effectiveness of these leadership changes will be closely watched. Citizens and stakeholders are expected to monitor how the newly reassigned commissioners translate the ARISE Agenda into measurable progress on the ground.

With the changes now in effect, attention shifts to how the reshuffled cabinet will adapt to their new roles and whether the adjustments will yield the efficiency and innovation the administration seeks.