The Akwa Ibom State branch of the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), has set up a 27-member Special Purpose Committee to review and develope a blueprint for the socioeconomic development of the state
The Special Purpose Committee according to a statement from the Organisation in Uyo yesterday is expected to undertake a holistic interrogation of the challenges besetting the Agriculture, Health and Education sectors of the state economy with a view to prescribing solutions.
The statement endorsed by it’s state chairman, Otuekong Franklyn Isong and Secretary Barr. Chris Ekpo said the inauguration was undertaken by the state chairman who charged members to produce a blueprint for the revitalisation of the three key sectors of the State’s economy.
The Committee has a renowned Soil Scientist and former Commissioner for Agriculture in Akwa Ibom State, Prof. Trenchard Ibia, as Chairman, and other eminent persons drawn from a broad spectrum of society to undertake the project within a two-month timeline.
“The Committee was set up as part of CLO’s strategic intervention founded on its commitment to the promotion of good governance, CLO recognising that the three sectors constitute the core of economic development in the 21st Century.
“This current endeavour is CLO’s follow-up action to the One-Day Thematic Roundtable organised by the CLO, Akwa Ibom State Branch at Watbridge Hotel, Uyo, on Thursday, 16th September, 2021.
“The Report and recommendations of this Panel will set the agenda for 2023 as they will be handed to the 2023 governorship aspirants of all the political parties in Akwa Ibom State for incorporation into their manifestoes.” The statement said.
The work of the Panel according to the statement would also provide the framework for a Debate planned by CLO for governorship candidates in the 2023 general election in Akwa Ibom.
“It is, therefore, important that the next administration in the State from the outset of 29th May, 2023 be well-equipped to redress the challenges of, and revamp, these key thematic areas for the optimal benefit of the people of Akwa Ibom State.” It said.
Committee Chairman, Ibia, had after the inauguration thanked the CLO for finding him and other members worthy of being selected and urged members of the committee to ensure that they carry out the assigned tasks devoid of party affiliation and sentiments.
He promised that the three thematic areas of Education, Agriculture and Health as well as interrelated and cross-cutting areas and issues would be holistically examined and recommendations proffered.
“Looking at the composition of this team, I have seen a mixed group of intellectuals who would bring their expertise to bear in making recommendations that will take the State to the next level.
“This group is not political party driven or directed. I believe we shall not be too critical of what is not good but will make suggestions in an honest and compassionate manner to improve what is on ground.” Ibia said.
Other members of the Committee include Dr. Aniekeme Uwah as co-Chairman, Mr. Etim Etim as Secretary and Barr. Christopher Ekpo as co Secretary
