Gov. Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering private sector investment as a key driver of economic growth in the state.
Speaking on Thursday at the inauguration of a new Zenith Bank branch in Uyo, the governor emphasized that strengthening the private sector remains central to creating jobs and accelerating overall development in Akwa Ibom. He noted that his personal business experience with Zenith Bank gave him firsthand insight into the important role financial institutions play in nurturing enterprise.
“The bank played a laudable role in the growth of Royalty Hotels, a brand I pioneered and led until I joined public service.
“It is my hope that the bank will accord the same support to other private sector investments in the state, be it micro, small or medium-scale enterprise,” he said.
In her remarks, the Group Managing Director of Zenith Bank PLC, Dr. Adaora Umeoji, described the opening of the new branch as a major milestone for the bank. She expressed appreciation to successive administrations in the state for creating an enabling environment for the bank’s operations.
”We thank the governor for creating a conducive environment for business to thrive”
“We opened our first branch in Akwa Ibom about 25 years ago, we have enjoyed a very good relationship with the government and people of the state.
“Akwa Ibom stands out as a major business friendly state. The state is clean, accommodating, and fast developing, we commend the government for this,” she said.
Umeoji reaffirmed Zenith Bank’s commitment to deepening its partnership with the Akwa Ibom government and residents to achieve sustainable and meaningful progress. She also encouraged entrepreneurs in the state, particularly women, to take advantage of the bank’s business support initiatives to expand their ventures.
