By Folashade Olorunfemi
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has pledged to tighten security at the popular Ibom Plaza in Uyo as part of efforts to curb criminal activities in the area, warning that anyone found loitering within the premises after closing hours would be arrested.
The governor made the pledge at the official reopening of the remodelled plaza, where he commended the Chairman of the Uyo Capital City Development Authority (UCCDA), Rt. Hon. Anietie Eka, and his team for delivering the project within the set timeline. He added that the redevelopment marked only the beginning of broader improvements planned for the facility.
Governor Eno announced that the plaza would operate daily from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 midnight, stressing that security agencies would enforce the closing time strictly. “We will not allow miscreants in this place. We have reclaimed the plaza to serve as a city square where families can gather to watch movies, football and enjoy other forms of entertainment. This is the vision our father, Architect Victor Attah, had for this place,” he said.
On maintenance, the governor assured that the facility, particularly the restrooms, would be professionally managed, with the UCCDA responsible for routine upkeep. He also expressed appreciation to the Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Baba Azare, for approving the establishment of a permanent security outpost within the plaza to safeguard lives and property.
He further reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tourism development in the state, noting that the remodelling of the plaza aligns with the tourism objectives of his ARISE Agenda.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Uyo Local Government Council, Dr. Uwemedimo Udo, praised Governor Eno for refurbishing and upgrading the plaza to meet modern standards of urban beautification. He described the facility as a key symbol of tourism and architectural excellence, adding that its restoration reflects the urban renewal vision of former Governor and “father of modern Akwa Ibom,” Arc. Obong Victor Attah.
Similarly, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Anieti Udofia, commended the governor for the project, noting that the revamped plaza has strengthened cultural development and repositioned Akwa Ibom as a viable tourism destination.
Providing an overview of the project, Rt. Hon. Anietie Eka traced the gradual deterioration of the plaza to the point where it became a haven for criminal activities. He thanked the governor for fulfilling a campaign promise by transforming the space into a tourism hub, highlighting new features such as art galleries showcasing heroic histories, a security outpost with two Hilux patrol vehicles, a large LED screen for entertainment, and solar-powered lighting across the plaza.
