Akwa Ibom Signs 2008 appropriation bill Into Law

Governor Akpabio who performed the ceremony, Monday at the old executive chambers of his office was assisted by the commissioner for Justice, Barr Bassey Iyanam.

Governor Akpabio stated that the bill which has 5% increase over the original figure earlier proposed was necessitated by the increase in the crude oil bench-mark accruable to the state during that last deliberation on National budget by the National Assembly.

“I have noted that the initial estimate submitted was about 153 billion and by time is understood because the budget predicated on crude oil bench-march of 153 dollars per barrel. But you notice that the National Assembly at the end of its deliberations for the National budget raise the crude oil bench mark to 159 dollars per barrel” he stated.

Gov. Godswill Akpabio

Chief Akpabio in accenting to the bill said the gesture would fat track the development of the state.

The State Chief Executive officer lauded the State House of Assembly for the speedy deliberations on the budget and subsequent passage of the bill.

Chief Akpabio equally expressed happiness at the cordial relationship existing between the legislature and the executives assuring that the present administration would adhere to the content of the budget as well as ensure total implementation.

Governor Akpabio who again assured indigenes of he state of his administration’s commitment to enhancing the wellbeing of the citizenry, said in addition to infrastructural development, government was poised to embark on the fight against poverty in the State.

He sued for patience and support from the people of Akwa Ibo mot enable State Government deliver more dividends of democracy to the people of the State.

The Governor challenged journalists to cross check information before going to the press in order not to misinform the public.

It would be recalled that the State House of Assembly on Feb 19th 2008 passed the bill Akwa Ibom State bill into law.

Speaking with journalists shortly after the ceremony, the Commissioner for Finance Mr. Bassey Akpan directed all ministries and parastatal agencies to submit its work plan of the ministry of economic development to guide them in the proper implementation of the budget.