Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has unveiled an ongoing creative academy in the state and urged youths to engage meaningfully for their personal growth and for the benefit of the state.
Speaking during the 10,000 Man ARISE City Walk organized by Akwa Ibom entertainers in front of Government House, Uyo, the Governor noted that money is a reward for value and encouraged young people to focus on value addition.
The Governor, who expressed delight at the large turnout of entertainers, praised his Senior Special Assistant on Entertainment, Mr David Sergeant, for mobilizing the entertainment industry in the state. According to him, Sergeant has shown commitment, dedication, and resilience in his duties, qualities that should be emulated.
Governor Eno also acknowledged Rev Osondu Ahirika, recently appointed Senior Special Assistant on Social Orientation, describing his gratitude and consistent support for the ARISE Agenda as commendable.
“Let us leave behind this sense of entitlement, nobody owes you nothing. Seeth thou a man diligent in his job, he shall stand before Kings and not before mean men. I like to tell our young people let us live beyond this entitlement attitude,” he said.
He further challenged entertainers to strive towards producing more talents like Ini Edo, Liz Benson, and Ebenezer Eno.
“This government has encouraged and celebrated our talents and so, I like to see something bigger. The creative industry is a multi-billion naira industry. We need to encourage our people. You’re the next generation. Nobody would give room for you until you are able to show your talent. When you show your talent, people would look for you,” he added.
The Governor reminded the crowd that even before his political career, he had supported and provided platforms for entertainers. “For this association, I want you to grow it, I want you to nurture it. My support for you should not scatter this group. You can start something, train your people,” he said.
Highlighting government’s efforts in developing the entertainment sector, the Governor revealed that the state is building the Ibom Creative Academy.
“I pray that next year this time, we should be able to launch it and I believe that all of you shooting film should be able to use it. We are expanding it to make it something you would be proud of. We want to deliberately make Akwa Ibom the tourism haven of this country,” he said.
In their separate remarks, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Anieti Udofia, Mr David Sergeant, and the Chairman of the planning committee, Mr Godfada Uko, thanked the Governor for attending the event.
They also appreciated his investment in the entertainment industry and his appointment of entertainers into his administration, assuring of their continued commitment and support for the ARISE Agenda.