By Nurat Uthman
A socio-political group called ARISE Ambassadors has expressed its commitment to ensuring the implementation of Governor Umo Eno’s policies and programs as outlined in the A.R.I.S.E Agenda. Several leaders of the group spoke during the official inauguration of the Executive Council of ARISE Ambassadors in Uyo over the weekend.
Chairman of the group, Revd. Richard Peters, highlighted that one of the main objectives of the group is to garner public support for the current administration’s A.R.I.S.E Agenda.
Peters also emphasized their role as advocates for good governance and their commitment to providing a clear interpretation of Governor Eno’s agenda to the people, particularly those in rural areas.
Peters further explained that the group plans to engage with community leaders through the introduction of community tours. They also intend to organize regular public debates on radio and TV stations to interact with the people.
Peters stressed that the group is open to all responsible and selfless supporters of Governor Umo Eno, urging everyone to work together to ensure the success of the administration.
During the event, Chairman of the occasion, Dr. Iniobong Essien, commended the initiative and emphasized the importance of sensitizing the grassroots about the governor’s vision for the state. He advised members of the group to be prepared to sacrifice their time and comfort in order to accomplish their task.
Dr. Essien stated, “It is a serious assignment that has been entrusted to you, and I believe you have the capacity to handle it. As you spread this message throughout Akwa Ibom State, the understanding will deepen. I thank all of you for undertaking this great responsibility. Government cannot work alone; it must collaborate with the people. Let us interpret Governor Umo Eno’s vision correctly to achieve the desired results.”
In a message of goodwill, the wife of a former military governor of the state also expressed support for the group and encouraged them to remain dedicated to their task.
Giving a message of goodwill, the wife of a former military governor of the state, Her Excellency Funmi Idongesit-Nkanga, commended members of group for taking up the responsibility of ensuring that everyone understands and keys into the vision of this administration.
Mrs. Idongesit-Nkanga who is the matron of the group said, “I want to thank the initiators of this group. Of course there is need for those who will go into the interior and explain what the vision of the A.R.IS.E Agenda is all about. So you must take this responsibility seriously.
“Let there be sincerity of purpose, let there be no division among you. Let the slogan of this group, ‘Projecting the ARISE Agenda” be foremost in uour hearts. Your purpose should not be what you want to gain from this, but to support the government. I thank everyone that created time to be here today”
On his part, a prominent indigenous contractor, High Chief Sunny Udonsek said he was happy to identify with the group and commended the members for supporting governor Eno’s administration to succeed.
Udonsek who was a special guest at the occasion described the governor as a man of the people, who understands the problem of the state, stressing, “So it is our duty as friends of Pastor Umo Eno to ensure he succeeds.
“He has demonstrated, determination, the political will to tackle the problem of Akwa Ibom’. He has started very well and we must continue to support him”.
Also speaking earlier, the Chairman Board of Trustees of the group, Comrade Ernest Akpan expressed gratitude to distinguished sons and daughters of the state who have identified with the group, noting, “We call them pillars of ARISE Ambassadors.
“They believe in our ability to make a difference. We are inspired by their faith in us. We are committed to living up to expectations. And may I inform this August audience that membership of this great movement is voluntary and pro-governor Umo Eno”
