Umo Eno Signs 14 Executive Bills into Law in Akwa Ibom

On Wednesday, Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno signed 14 Executive Bills into law, marking a significant advancement in governance and institutional reforms under the ARISE Agenda. The laws aim to provide legal backing for strategic institutions, close policy gaps, and enhance the welfare of the populace.

Key legislations include the establishment of the Akwa Ibom State Geographical Information Service (AKWA – GIS) for modernizing land administration, a Senior Citizens Centre for elderly welfare, and the Hotels and Tourism Development Commission to regulate tourism standards. Additionally, the laws create the Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance Systems Agency, the Public Procurement Regulatory Agency, and the Betting and Lottery Regulatory Agency, among others.

Eno also amended the Hospitals Management Board Law to decentralize hospital administration and improve healthcare delivery. He plans to redeploy medical doctors from administrative roles back to clinical practice.

An Environmental Sanitation Bill is expected to be introduced soon to enhance environmental enforcement.