...as Gov. Umo Eno Promises More Dividends of Democracy

...Uyo Council Chairman, Oku Leaders Solicit for Secondary School

The Qua Iboe Church (QIC) Government Model Primary School, Oku in Uyo Local Government Area has entered a new chapter after 112 years of existence, following its transformation into a state-of-the-art model learning centre by the administration of His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, PhD, Governor of Akwa Ibom State.

The ultra-modern facility was commissioned on Friday, June 12, 2026, underscoring Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda focus on revitalising basic education across the state.

Representing the Governor at the commissioning ceremony, the Political Adviser, Dr. Godwin Ntukude, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to delivering people-oriented projects, emphasising that education remains the foundation for sustainable development.

Dr. Ntukude noted that the Governor’s investment in model primary schools across the 31 local government areas reflects the ARISE Agenda’s priority on human capital development and equal opportunities for every Akwa Ibom child. He assured the people that the government would continue to spread the dividends of democracy to every part of the state.

In an emotion-filled atmosphere, the Chairman of Uyo Local Government Area, Dr. Uwemedimo Udo, an alumnus of the school, expressed profound gratitude to Governor Umo Eno for restoring hope to generations of pupils.

“We have taken full ownership of this facility,” he declared. “Security personnel have been approved and will be deployed specifically for the school. Additionally, the local government has budgeted for lawn mowers to maintain the grounds professionally, sparing our pupils from manual labour such as cutting grass with cutlasses.”

While appreciating the Governor’s compassion and commitment to education, the Council Chairman conveyed the collective request of Oku Clan leaders for the establishment of a public secondary school in the community. He noted that such a facility would complement the new model primary school and ensure a seamless transition for pupils.

The Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ubong Umoh, disclosed that the school, originally established in 1914 by Qua Iboe Church missionaries, is undergoing its first comprehensive reconstruction in 112 years. The new model school features 19 fully equipped classrooms, ICT facilities with computer access for pupils from Primary One to Six, a sickbay, administrative offices, and other modern amenities designed to meet global standards. The improved teacher-to-pupil ratio of 1:25 is expected to significantly enhance teaching and learning outcomes.

Goodwill messages were delivered by the Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Rt. Hon. Anietie Etuk; the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Anieti Udofia; the Clan Head of Oku, Etebom Dr. Enefiok Okpon; and the school management. They all described education as the greatest investment any government can make and commended Governor Umo Eno for prioritising the future of Akwa Ibom children.

The school had deteriorated considerably over the decades due to its remote location and prolonged lack of major renovation. However, Governor Umo Eno’s keen attention to both urban infrastructure and hinterland communities led to this full-scale intervention.

The event attracted heads of ministries and parastatals, leadership of Uyo Local Government Council, stakeholders, community leaders, and residents, who expressed deep appreciation for the Governor’s timely intervention.