Archibong Urges Constructive Engagement to Strengthen Governance in Akwa Ibom

Archibong Urges Constructive Engagement to Strengthen Governance in Akwa Ibom

Ini Archibong, Strategy Director of Chastest Consult, has called on stakeholders in Akwa Ibom State to embrace constructive engagement and responsible dialogue in addressing issues concerning the administration of Governor Umo Bassey Eno, stressing that meaningful criticism and collaborative participation are vital for the state’s sustained development.

Ini Archibong, Strategy Director of Chastest Consult and a prominent voice in media management, public affairs, and strategic communications, has urged supporters and critics of the Akwa Ibom State government to engage the administration of Governor Umo Bassey Eno in a spirit of constructive dialogue, mutual respect, and shared purpose.

Speaking with journalists after a consultative meeting in Abuja, Archibong emphasized that while the governor’s achievements deserve recognition, the state’s progress depends on an informed and principled citizenry willing to engage government constructively rather than resorting to blind praise or destructive criticism.

“Akwa Ibom belongs to all of us — it is not the exclusive property of any one individual, party, or administration,” he said. “Every stakeholder, whether within the APC, the opposition, civil society, or the diaspora, has both the right and the responsibility to speak up. What we must insist upon is that such conversations are grounded in facts, driven by genuine concern for our people, and delivered with the civility our state deserves.”

Archibong also cautioned against what he described as “voices of distraction” — individuals and groups who criticize the government for political point-scoring rather than genuine concern for governance.

“There is a difference between a constructive opposition and a destructive one,” he stated. “No governor knows it all. Governor Eno himself would benefit from a robust, honest, and engaged opposition — one that challenges him with ideas, holds him accountable with evidence, and proposes alternatives where necessary. That kind of opposition strengthens governance. What does not strengthen governance is noise for the sake of noise.”

The communications strategist expressed admiration for the developmental strides recorded under Governor Eno’s administration, noting that some of the projects underway in the state reflect global standards.

“I have travelled extensively across the world, and I say with confidence that the scale and quality of what is happening in Akwa Ibom today is comparable to what you find in developed economies,” Archibong said. “Governor Eno has brought peace, stability, and a renewed sense of purpose to the state. He has fixed infrastructure gaps, championed hospitality, and is positioning Akwa Ibom as a destination hub in the South-South.”

He cited ongoing initiatives including investments in educational infrastructure, the Ibom Model Farms programme, construction of a new jetty in Oron, shoreline protection projects, warehouses and cold rooms aimed at supporting fishing communities and boosting trade, as well as the upgrade of the Akwa Ibom International Airport ahead of the commencement of international flights scheduled for April 2026.

Other projects highlighted include the ARISE Palm Resort, expected to generate more than ₦20 billion annually when fully operational, the Senior Citizens Centre recently commissioned by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and the development of new urban centres across the state.

“These are not just projects. They are foundations,” Archibong said. “My support for this administration is rooted in a desire to see these foundations translate into a state that can compete globally — one that attracts foreign direct investment and brings our diaspora back home to build.”

Despite his commendation of the administration, Archibong stressed that his support remains objective and driven by results.

“I am not here to be a cheerleader. I am here as a stakeholder who wants results,” he said. “Where the governor gets it right, I will say so loudly. And where there is room for improvement, I will say that too — through the right channels, with the right intent, and in service of our collective progress.”

Archibong also praised the appointment of Raymond Abia as Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Inter-Governmental Affairs, describing the decision as strategic.

“Raymond Abia has served creditably in both the public and private sectors. His experience in the oil and gas industry, his international networks, and his disposition — which naturally draws people to him — make him exceptionally suited for this role. He will have my full support,” he said.

The remarks follow a recent meeting of the Arise with Renewed Hope Initiative’s FCT chapter, where advisory and sub-committee members were sworn in with a mandate to mobilise support for the APC National Congress and work toward the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Governor Umo Eno.