By: Francis Xavier
A Trustee of the Akwa Ibom Community in Abuja, Comrade Tommy Etim Okon, PhD, NPOM, JP, has thrown his weight behind the proposed housing scheme for Akwa Ibom indigenes in the Federal Capital Territory, describing the initiative as a landmark demonstration of inclusive governance and economic foresight.
Speaking during an engagement with members of the Press in Abuja, Dr. Tommy expressed excitement over the historic visit of Akwa Ibom State Governor, His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno PhD, noting that it marked the first time a sitting governor attended it’s General monthly Meeting having a direct interaction with the diaspora community in the FCT.
According to him, the visit created a rare opportunity for indigenes to engage the governor one-on-one and gain firsthand insight into policies targeted at improving their welfare both within and beyond the geographical boundaries of the state.
Dr. Tommy revealed that the governor used the visit to announce plans to acquire land and develop a housing scheme in Abuja for Akwa Ibom residents, an initiative he said is not a handout but a structured empowerment programme designed to create employment opportunities and enable citizens to invest and benefit from government-driven development.
He described the project as a practical expression of the governor’s ARISE Agenda, which he characterised as a social contract and a working blueprint that has reinforced public confidence in the administration’s commitment to its promises.
The former community leader further linked the initiative to the Renewed Hope and Arise Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, and the Governor Pastor Umo Eno, stressing that the housing scheme aligns with broader national development efforts aimed at economic inclusion and improved living standards.
Reacting to criticism by diaspora-based indigene Ms Mfon Umana, who reportedly described the project as a “white elephant,” Dr. Tommy said the concerns were unfair and largely stemmed from a misunderstanding of the policy framework.
While acknowledging that the critic initially commended the governor’s welfare-driven approach, he described the subsequent rejection of the housing proposal as contradictory and lacking adequate appreciation of its long-term socio-economic value.
He argued that investment in Abuja should not be viewed negatively, noting that the FCT remains a viable investment destination for both local and international stakeholders.
Drawing global parallels, Dr. Tommy maintained that metropolitan investments often yield rapid returns and should be encouraged, adding that discouraging such initiatives on the basis of tax jurisdiction alone reflects a narrow interpretation of development.
Highlighting the benefits of the project, Dr. Tommy who served as the former president of the community, recalled the intervention of former governor Victor Attah, who provided housing support grants to Akwa Ibom indigenes in Abuja during the monetisation era, enabling many to secure accommodation in city centres.
He noted that the proposed scheme would ease pressure on housing in the home state, enhance safety for residents in Abuja, and create wealth-building opportunities for entrepreneurs and professionals operating in the FCT.
Beyond home ownership, he emphasized the job creation potential of the initiative, citing opportunities across construction value chains including carpentry, masonry, welding, furniture production, and allied services, with many beneficiaries expected to be Akwa Ibom indigenes.
Dr. Tommy also stressed that the scheme would promote identity, dignity, and social inclusion, insisting that Akwa Ibom residents in Abuja should not be treated as second-class citizens but as active contributors to the state’s development trajectory.
He urged the public to move beyond headline interpretations and engage deeply with policy details to avoid misconceptions, advising the governor to differentiate between constructive criticism and sentiment-driven opposition.
According to him, the ARISE Agenda remains a measurable governance framework that provides a platform for accountability while guiding development across sectors.
He clarified that although the housing scheme originated from engagement with the Abuja community, participation would not be restricted to a select group but would be open to Akwa Ibom indigenes with the capacity and interest to invest.
Speaking in his capacity as coordinator of the Arise with Renewed Hope Initiative, Dr. Tommy described the platform as a special mobilisation vehicle to canvas support for the second coming of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR , Senate President, Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio, GCON, and the Governor, His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno, PhD.
He commended federal economic reforms, under president Tinubu, particularly subsidy removal, noting that policy outcomes often require gestation periods before tangible benefits become evident.
Dr. Tommy also praised legislative stability under Senator Akpabio, stressing that governance thrives when the executive and legislature operate in harmony.
On developments within Akwa Ibom State, he credited Governor Eno with fostering unity, political inclusiveness, and a peaceful atmosphere essential for sustainable development. He further noted that recent infrastructure approvals aimed at upgrading the state’s aviation facility toward international airport status underscore a forward-looking and strategic approach to governance.
Addressing political realignments in the state, Dr. Tommy argued that political parties mostly serve as platforms for electoral victory but must ultimately give way to governance and development priorities.
He maintained that Akwa Ibom’s progress depends on strengthening connections with the federal centre, reducing political fragmentation, and embracing inclusive leadership capable of attracting opportunities to the state.
Concluding, Dr. Tommy urged citizens to think beyond sentiment and adopt a broader developmental perspective, expressing confidence that sustained policy continuity would significantly transform Akwa Ibom’s socio-economic landscape in the years ahead.
