Tony Okoh || The Newly sworn in Chairman of Itu Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom state, Barr. Etetim Onuk has pledged his administration’s determination to implement policies that would revitalize the agricultural sub sector, ensure food security and create job opportunities for the people of Itu.
He also said the new leadership intend to stimulate the Local government’s economy with the award of soft loan to women and youth, through cooperative societies.
Barr. Onuk said this weekend while addressing the people of Itu Local Government Area, at a reception held at Itu Local Government Council, Mbak Atai after he was sworn in by the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel.
Bar Etetim Onuk signing the register shortly after he was sworn in
He disclosed that the administration plans to facilitate access to quality education, reintroduce the payment of bursary allowances to eligible students and award scholarship through an academic scheme.
He stated that to drive the economic vision, the resuscitation of moribund industries in Itu Local government would be pursued. He also disclosed his plan to discuss with the Federal and State Government on the fate of The Ceramic Industry, Ibom science Park, and the defunct Nigerian Newsprint Manufacturing Company (NNMC), Oku Iboku.
“In line with the state’s industrialization policy, this administration shall set up a Development Trust Fund, managed by credible professionals, with the mandate to seek ways to collaborate with investors and promote the development of enterprises and citing of cottage industries in the four geo-political zones of Itu Local Government Area. We also intend to partner with government agencies with a view to propelling an enhance and revitalized private sector driven economy”. he said
Bar Etetim Onuk with wife at the swearing in
The Itu Local Government Chairman affirmed that the new administration intends to embark on the renovation and beautification of the Local Government Headquarters, Mbak Atai and enforce a residency policy that would ensure that all Principal Officers of the Council, reside within Council Quarters. He promised to upgrade Etaha Market to an International Standard, renovate and redesign the T-Junction Market, Obo Market, and Nkim Market.
Onuk thanked the People for their support, pledged to run an all-inclusive government and called on all to join the campaign for a New and better Itu Local Government Area.
Former Secretary to the State Government and Former Deputy Leader of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly; Obonganwan Grace Ekong and Hon. Dr. Ekaette Ebong respectively called on the people to support the administration and tasked the new Council helmsman to strive towards fulfilling his campaign promises.