A’Ibom Gov Reaffirms Support For Private Sector Devt

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has reaffirmed his commitment to supporting and partnering with the private sector to enhance growth, employment opportunities and overall development of the State.

Speaking at the official commissioning of a new branch of Zenith Bank in Uyo on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, the Governor said the bank is respected for its integrity and excellence.

Governor Eno said he has a long-standing business relationship with the bank, stressing that it played a laudable role in the growth of Royalty Hotels, a brand he pioneered and led till he joined the public service.

He expressed hope that the bank would extend the same gesture to other Micro, Small and Medium-scale Enterprises (MSMEs) in the State, enabling them to thrive.

Governor Eno appreciated Zenith Bank for strategically opening another branch in Uyo and assured the bank of the necessary support to make the branch profitable.

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He used the opportunity to commend the operations of Anchor Insurance, located opposite the branch, and called on the management to give some facelift to the structure.

Earlier, the Group Managing Director (GMD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Zenith Bank PLC, Dame Dr Adaora Umeoji, said the event was a significant milestone in the life of the bank.

She appreciated the Akwa Ibom State Government and Governor Eno in particular for their support over the years, adding, “Your presence here, despite your many other competing engagements, speaks volumes of your commitment to supporting the private sector and driving the development of the state.”

“We appreciate your commitment to creating conducive environments for businesses to thrive. “Akwa Ibom State stands as one of the most business-friendly, cleanest, accommodating and fast-developing states in Nigeria,” she added.

Dame Umeoji said that 25 years ago, when it opened its first branch in the state, the bank had enjoyed a very good relationship with the state government and its people.

She assured a continuous partnership with the government and people of the State in order to create a lasting impact and meaningful progress, adding that their presence will create employment and business support opportunities.

The GMD encouraged businesses, especially women-owned businesses in the state, to leverage the bank’s initiatives to accelerate their growth in their various areas of specialisation.

At the event were the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; Executive Assistant/Chief Delivery Advisor, Mr Aniefiok Johnson; former Petroleum Minister, Atuekong Don Etiebet; members of the State Executive Council; members of the State House of Assembly; local government chairmen; and other government officials.