The Akwa Ibom State government is to acquire 10 more new A220-300 airbuses for its fleet of existing Ibom Air.
Governor Udom Emmanuel said this during the weekend while speaking at the 85th birthday of the Paramount Ruler of Eket Local Government Area, Obong Etim Charles Daniel Abia.
“As I’m leaving here, we’re signing fresh agreements that will give us ten brand new A220-300 Air Buses, so that even when I leave office, it will remain as an enduring legacy,” the governor stressed.
On November 3rd, 2021, the Management of Ibom Air, welcomed the airline’s one-millionth passenger onboard flight number IAN4134 departing from Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo to Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
The governor said records of the state’s finances show that his administration has performed well with the construction companies handling projects in the state.
Regrettably, he noted that the issues of climate and weather conditions, the COVID pandemic and other natural occurrences have impacted the pace of works.
“People have said a lot of things about developments and projects. Your Majesty, we have had major challenges in the past two years that we never envisaged in governance.
“The whole of 2020, nobody could do much because of COVID. That took into 2021 and in 2021 we were so poised for infrastructure development, but the volume of rainfall has been unprecedented.” he lamented.
The governor also disclosed his determination to ensure quality is not compromised in the Eket stadium project, international market project, roads, and other development programmes in Eket LGA, stressing that the peculiarity of the terrain is being taken into consideration to ensure works done stand the test of time.
Appealing for patience, Mr Emmanuel assured that all the projects will be delivered and appreciated long after his tenure. Emmanuel congratulated Obong Abia on his 85th birthday and spoke glowingly of the endearing characteristics of the Eket patriarch.