ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- Former Nigeria President, Goodluck Jonathan has commended Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State and past leaders of the state, for massive and rapid development in the state within 30 years.
He gave the commendation at the weekend as special guest of honour during the State Banquet organised by the Akwa Ibom State Government, as part of activities marking the 35th anniversary
Jonathan noted that there were visible improvement in the areas of physical infrastructure and other basic amenities across the 31 local government areas of the state within the period of thirty five years.
He said, “I will say that Akwa Ibom State, which was carved out of the old Cross River State is one of the states that has met the expectations of her people in fulfilling the reasons for her creation.
“If you have been coming to Akwa Ibom within these period of thirty five years, you would agree that people from the state would always thank God for the creation of this state.
“Governor Emmanuel has done very well, therefore the youths can no longer afford to be laid back, and in this election season, I charge the young ones to be vigilant to ensure that their choices are not thwarted,” he said.
The former President called on politicians to shun violence and division and team up with the Governor to ensure that the State continues to remain a centre of positive reference.
Speaking at the event, Governor Emmanuel said his administration has connected with the people at the grassroots through provision of healthcare facilities and other life- touching projects.
The Governor used the occasion to appreciate former Military President General Ibrahim Babaginda (retd), whom he said yielded to the aspirations of the founding fathers by creating Akwa Ibom State in 23 September, 1987.
Reeling out his scorecards, the Governor said his administration would continue to work for the benefit of the people despite the global economic and financial challenges, stating he was not given to excuses but results.
Other dignitaries who attended the event include: Former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan; Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri; former Gombe Governor Dr. Ibrahim Dankwambo; former Benue Governor Senator Gabriel Suswam; former Military Governors of Akwa Ibom State as well as the Deputy Governor Moses Ekpo, who proposed the anniversary toast.