By Julius Nsikak
The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has commenced legislative consideration of twelve executive bills transmitted by Governor Umo Eno, marking one of the most extensive batches of proposed legislation before the current Assembly.
The bills, which seek to establish new institutions and strengthen governance frameworks across key sectors, were formally introduced during plenary on Wednesday and read for the first time by the Clerk of the House, Mrs Nsikakabasi Orok. The motion for their receipt was moved by the House Leader, Rt Hon Otobong Bob, and seconded by the Deputy Leader, Hon Nsidibe Akata.
The proposed legislations cover revenue administration, healthcare, tourism, public procurement, legal aid, emergency services, land management, broadcasting, skills development and elderly welfare. Among them is a bill seeking to establish the Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service, aimed at improving the collection and administration of internally generated revenue. Lawmakers also received a bill proposing the creation of the Akwa Ibom State Fiscal Responsibility Board to strengthen accountability and discipline in public finance management.
In the justice sector, the Assembly received a bill to establish the Office of the Public Defender, designed to provide legal support for indigent residents. Another proposal seeks to establish the Akwa Ibom State Betting and Lottery Regulatory Agency to regulate gaming activities and enhance government oversight of the sector.
Healthcare reforms featured prominently in the executive proposals. The House received a bill to establish the Akwa Ibom State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System Agency, as well as an amendment bill for the Akwa Ibom State Hospital Management Board aimed at improving the administration of public health facilities.
The tourism and hospitality industry also received legislative attention through a bill seeking to establish the Akwa Ibom State Hotels and Tourism Development Commission. Another proposal seeks the creation of the Akwa Ibom State Senior Citizens Agency to address issues affecting the welfare and protection of elderly persons.
Other bills introduced include those seeking to establish the Ibom Broadcasting Corporation, the DAKADDA Skills Acquisition Centre, the Akwa Ibom State Geographic Information Services, and the Akwa Ibom State Public Procurement Regulations Agency.
Following the first reading, the Speaker of the House, Elder Udeme Otong, referred all twelve bills to the House Committee on Rules, Business and Privileges for scheduling and further legislative action.
The referral formally sets the bills on the path to second reading, committee scrutiny and public consideration before any final passage by the Assembly.
Thereafter, the House adjourned plenary to 9 June 2026.
