The President of The Gambia, Adama Barrow, and the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, have been honoured at the 19th Security Watch Africa Conference and Awards held in Banjul, The Gambia, for their outstanding contributions to governance, security and sustainable development.
Governor Eno, represented by his Deputy, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, received the African Leader in People-Centric Governance Award in recognition of his administration’s commitment to improving the lives of citizens through inclusive governance and sustainable development.
In his keynote address, Governor Eno commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture through collaboration with the Armed Forces and other security agencies.
He stressed the need for stronger regional and continental partnerships to address emerging security challenges and promote lasting peace and economic growth across Africa.
Speaking before African leaders, diplomats, defence chiefs, security experts and policymakers at the Sir Dawda Jawara International Conference Centre, the Governor said good governance should be measured by its impact on the welfare and well-being of the people.
He dedicated the award to the people of Akwa Ibom State, describing it as a collective achievement made possible through the partnership between government, security agencies and citizens in building a peaceful and prosperous society.
Governor Eno acknowledged Nigeria’s security challenges but noted that they are not unique to the country, urging African nations to strengthen intelligence sharing, collaboration and innovation in tackling transnational threats.
Using the continental platform, the Governor showcased the achievements of his administration under the ARISE Agenda.
He highlighted the construction of over 1,346 kilometres of roads and bridges, the establishment of the Ibom Model Farm, the Tree Crop Revolution, the commissioning of the 350-bed Ibom International Hospital, the enrolment of more than 300,000 residents into the State Health Insurance Scheme, and the construction of over 455 solar-powered Compassionate Homes for vulnerable citizens.
He also outlined major investment-driven projects, including the ARISE Palm Resort, the International Convention Centre, the remodelling of Ibom International Hotel, the expansion of Ibom Air’s regional operations and ongoing efforts to actualise the Ibom Deep Seaport.
On security, Governor Eno said his administration had strengthened internal security through the creation of the Ministry of Internal Security and Waterways, the establishment of the Ibom Community Watch, the integration of 2,272 gazetted Village Youth Presidents into the state’s security network, and the construction of a modern Security Command and Control Centre.
He reiterated his support for the establishment of State Police, describing it as a necessary step towards strengthening grassroots security and improving responses to emerging threats.
International Coordinator of Security Watch Africa, Patrick Agbambu, said Governor Eno’s people-oriented leadership and commitment to citizens informed the decision to honour him with the African Leader in People-Centric Governance Award.
Other recipients at the event included Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, the Gambian Police Force, the Nigeria Police Force, the South African Defence Force, the Kenya Navy, the Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, and the Chief Security Officer to Governor Umo Eno, CSP Besta Sini.
Governor Eno commended Security Watch Africa for promoting dialogue on security across the continent and praised the Government of The Gambia for its hospitality and commitment to tourism-driven economic development.
He also invited investors from across Africa and beyond to explore opportunities in Akwa Ibom, assuring them of a secure environment, modern infrastructure, investor-friendly policies and a government committed to sustainable partnerships.
The 19th Security Watch Africa Conference and Awards brought together political leaders, diplomats, defence and security chiefs, policymakers and development experts from across Africa to discuss practical strategies for strengthening governance, security and sustainable development on the continent.
