The Akwa Ibom State Government has declared Friday, November 6, 2026, a work-free day ahead of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s working visit to the state, while the Uyo Local Government Council has ordered the temporary closure of Ikot Ekpe Market, popularly known as Udua Ebot.
President Tinubu is expected in Akwa Ibom today to commission several major infrastructure projects executed by the administration of Governor Umo Eno across key sectors of the state economy.
The projects span aviation, healthcare, road infrastructure, security, tourism and public administration, reflecting the state government’s ongoing efforts to expand infrastructure and improve public services.
Akwa Ibom Declares Work-Free Day for Presidential Visit
Governor Umo Eno announced the work-free day following an inspection tour of some of the facilities scheduled for commissioning.
The Governor explained that the decision was intended to enable residents across the state to turn out in large numbers to welcome the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
The declaration applies to Friday, November 6, 2026, as the state prepares for the presidential engagement and the inauguration of several projects.
Ikot Ekpe Market Shut Ahead of Tinubu’s Arrival
In a related development, the Uyo Local Government Council announced the temporary closure of Ikot Ekpe Market, popularly called Udua Ebot, along Goodluck Jonathan Boulevard.
A notice signed by the Council Secretary, Dr Ubong Udofia, on November 4, directed traders and other market users to suspend activities on Friday, November 6, to facilitate the President’s visit.
The council stated that the market would reopen on Saturday, November 7, immediately after the presidential engagement.
Traders and members of the public were advised to take note of the directive and make the necessary arrangements. The council also appreciated their understanding and cooperation.
Major Infrastructure Projects Slated for Commissioning
Among the projects scheduled for inauguration is the new International Terminal Building at Victor Attah International Airport, alongside the Airport Hospital and Aviation Village.
Other projects include the 14.5-kilometre Nsit Atai–Okobo Road, also known as the Airport–Okopedi Road, and the 7.86-kilometre Outer Ring Road Phase III.
The President is also expected to commission the Akwa GIS Building, Governor’s Office Annex, Security and Command Centre, and ARISE Palm Resort.
The projects represent investments in infrastructure, public administration, transportation, security, healthcare and tourism.
Projects Reflect Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda
The scheduled inaugurations align with key priorities of the Umo Eno administration’s ARISE Agenda, particularly infrastructure expansion, improved rural connectivity, economic development, security management and investment promotion.
The new international terminal, together with the Airport Hospital and Aviation Village, is expected to enhance the operational capacity of Victor Attah International Airport and strengthen Akwa Ibom’s prospects in aviation and investment.
The road projects are expected to improve transportation links between communities, reduce travel difficulties and create opportunities for commercial activities.
Similarly, the Security and Command Centre is intended to strengthen the state’s security infrastructure and improve coordination in security management.
The ARISE Palm Resort also represents part of the administration’s efforts to expand tourism and hospitality infrastructure, with the potential to attract visitors and support economic activities.
Presidential Visit Highlights Akwa Ibom’s Development Drive
President Tinubu’s visit provides an opportunity to showcase major public infrastructure investments undertaken by the Akwa Ibom State Government across strategic sectors.
The commissioning exercise marks an important occasion for the state as it seeks to consolidate its infrastructure development programme, improve public facilities and strengthen its position as a destination for investment, aviation and tourism.
The extent to which the projects translate into improved services, economic opportunities and better living conditions for residents will remain an important measure of their long-term impact.
