Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, reaffirms his administration’s commitment to creating an investment-friendly environment that attracts businesses and supports economic growth across the state.
Governor Eno makes the commitment on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, while commissioning a new branch of Signature Bank in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.
The governor says Akwa Ibom is increasingly becoming a preferred destination for investors, citing the state’s road infrastructure, peaceful environment, skilled and hardworking population, as well as ongoing efforts to position the state as a major tourism destination.
He says promoting small and medium-sized enterprises remains a key component of his administration’s ARISE Agenda, stressing that government policies are focused on making it easier for businesses to establish and operate successfully in the state.
Mediaplusng.com reports that Governor Eno also highlights ongoing reforms in land administration and electricity supply as part of measures designed to improve the ease of doing business.
According to the governor, the planned launch of AkwaGIS is expected to simplify access to land-related documentation, including Certificates of Occupancy, which are important requirements for businesses seeking financial support and banking services.
He also says the state’s electricity reforms are aimed at improving power availability, while other economic initiatives are being implemented to create more favourable conditions for businesses.
Governor Eno assures Signature Bank that its decision to establish a presence in Uyo will be beneficial, expressing confidence that the bank will find Akwa Ibom a conducive environment for its operations.
The governor says government will continue to work with the private sector to expand economic opportunities, create jobs and strengthen the state’s investment profile.
Speaking at the event, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Signature Bank, Nixon Iwedi, describes the opening as more than the establishment of another banking outlet.
He says it represents the beginning of a strategic relationship between the financial institution, the people and businesses of Akwa Ibom State.
Iwedi commends the state government for what he describes as a business-friendly environment, saying the investment climate is among the factors that influence the bank’s decision to establish a branch in Uyo.
The bank’s Board Chairman, Alhaji Tijani Borodo, says the future of banking depends on financial institutions’ ability to understand their customers, respond effectively to their needs and deploy technology while maintaining meaningful relationships.
Borodo describes Akwa Ibom as an increasingly attractive destination for investors and says stronger partnerships between government and the private sector are essential to achieving the objectives of the ARISE Agenda.
He stresses that private-sector participation can complement government efforts in driving economic development and expanding opportunities for residents.
Also speaking, the Central Bank of Nigeria, represented by its Head of Currency Operations, Mrs Duoye Alalebo, says the establishment of the Signature Bank branch reflects confidence in the economic potential of Akwa Ibom State.
She notes that the new branch is also expected to contribute to expanding access to formal financial services and deepening financial inclusion across the state.
The opening of Signature Bank’s Uyo branch therefore comes as Akwa Ibom continues to position itself as an investment destination, with the state government seeking stronger collaboration with financial institutions and other private-sector players.
For Governor Eno, the objective remains clear: create an environment where businesses can grow, investors can operate with confidence, and residents can benefit from increased economic activity.
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