EXCERPTS FROM THE MEETING OF THE AKWA IBOM STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL HELD ON WEDNESDAY , 1ST SEPTEMBER, 2021 AT THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL CHAMBERS OF THE GOVERNOR’S OFFICE

The meeting which was presided over by HE the Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, had in attendance,HE the Deputy Governor, Secretary to the State Government, Chief of Staff, Head of the Civil Service, Honourable Commissioners and Special Adviser. It commenced at 10AM with the rendition of the National and State Anthems; the opening prayer was worded by Otuekong Raphael Bassey, HC- Housing.

The Governor, as Chairman-in-Council appreciated the efforts of EXCO members towards the actualization of the Completion Agenda, but urged them to double their efforts as the year end is fast approaching.

LOW KEY STATE ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS

The Governor indicated that the State COVID-19 Management Team had advised that the state creation anniversary celebration this year should be low key, to help with the management of COVID-19. However, the emphasis for this year’s celebration will be on projects commissioning. The schedule for commissioning will be published by by the Secretary to the State Government.

COVID STATUS UPDATE

The Governor upon receipt of the COVID-19 status report and Vaccination update from the HC-Health in the state, directed increased awareness on vaccination and urged the health officials to give preference to elderly citizens, because of their age and possible comorbidity.

PRESENTATION OF IBOM SOFT ROLL

HC-Trade and Investment presented the made in Akwa Ibom Tissue paper produced by Dakkada cottage Industry. He informed that all the requisite approvals have been obtained and the product is ready for the market. EXCO appreciated the ministry and the cottage industry for adding the tissue paper manufacturing line to the existing factories at the industrial park. The Governor charged the ministry to ensure that the factory and its products are managed profitably.

STANDARDIZATION OF MEDICAL LABORATORIES

Arising from the alarming rise in the discrepancies in medical laboratories results, which have led to avoidable deaths in the state, the Governor directed the HC- Health to set up a Monitoring Team to ensure the standardization of all medical laboratories operational in Uyo. The laboratories owners have 7 days to conform to global best practices or close down their offices.

INTERVENTION IN IKPA ROAD/ UYO VILLAGE ROAD EROSION SITES

Council approved the immediate award of contract for the intervention in the erosion sites at Ikpa road and Uyo village road. The HC-Environment and Solid Minerals was directed to act immediately to prevent further degradation of the environment and loss of property.

AGE LIMIT FOR ENTRY LEVEL IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS

EXCO reiterated their earlier decision on the upper age limit (12 years) for students seeking entry level admission into public junior secondary schools in the state. School administrators have been charged to strictly adhere to the decision.

The meeting came to a close at 3:25PM with a closing prayer worded by Dr. John James Etim, HC Power and Petroleum Development.

Signed:

Comrade Ini Ememobong

Honourable Commissioner for Information & Strategy