Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has declared a State of Emergency on the newly revamped Ibom Paint, formerly known as Peacock Paints, located in Etinan Local Government Area.
While commissioning the upgraded facility on Wednesday, the governor announced the appointment of Mr. Ime Uwah, his Senior Special Assistant on Entrepreneurial Development, as the Sole Administrator of the company.
Governor Eno praised Uwah for his dedication to reviving the company, noting that within just three months, significant progress had been made.
He also commended Pastor ImoAbasi Jacob, Managing Director of the Akwa Ibom Investment Corporation (AKICORP), for his passionate efforts in helping bring the government’s vision to life.
Reflecting on how the revival of the company began, the governor recalled a discussion during a project review meeting where he asked Pastor Jacob if it was truly possible to resuscitate the paint company.
Jacob’s confident response“Yes, we can”inspired the move to overhaul the facility.
The governor explained that what the company had lacked was focused and dynamic management, which it now has under Uwah’s leadership.
Governor Eno urged all contractors handling state government projects to patronise Ibom Paint, adding that the facility will provide employment for young people and help drive local development.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting state-owned enterprises through continuous collaboration with AKICORP.
Pastor Jacob, in his remarks, thanked the governor for giving the company a new lease of life.
He said the plant, once in a state of disrepair, is now fully owned by the state and operating under modern systems, including an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system that integrates key functions such as finance, HR, manufacturing, and sales.
He also confirmed that the company has received certification from the Standards Organization of Nigeria.
The event was attended by several dignitaries including Obong Paul Ekpo, member representing Etinan Federal Constituency; Isantim Kenneth Okon, political leader of Etinan LGA; Hon. Uduak Ekpo Ufot, member representing Etinan State Constituency; and Dr. Ubong Inyang, Commissioner for Trade and Investment.
