Eno Defends ₦1m Monthly Pay for PAs, Slams Critics

Punchngs July 29, 2025

Eno Defends ₦1m Monthly Pay for PAs, Slams Critics

Local News
23.08.2025
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Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has defended his government’s decision to allocate ₦1 million monthly stipends
for Personal Assistants (PAs) appointed across the state, insisting that the initiative is both necessary and beneficial for effective governance.
Speaking during a public address in Uyo, the governor described criticisms surrounding the policy as “misguided” and urged detractors to
understand the broader vision behind the decision.

Eno Defends ₦1m Monthly Pay for PAs, Slams Critics

Governor Eno explained that the funds allocated to PAs are not wasteful spending but a structured empowerment program designed to ensure inclusivity,
grassroots representation, and the smooth flow of government policies from the state level down to local communities.

According to Governor Eno, the monthly ₦1 million salary for each PA is intended to cover not only their personal upkeep but also the costs of
grassroots engagement and constituency responsibilities. He argued that each PA serves as a direct link between his administration and the
citizens, ensuring that government initiatives, policies, and welfare programs are communicated effectively.

“When you hear ₦1 million, it sounds big, but it is not just for one person’s pocket,” the governor explained. “It covers community responsibilities,
transportation, logistics, and mobilization. A PA is like a bridge between the people and government. Critics only see the figure but fail to
understand its purpose.”

The announcement had triggered widespread criticism on social media and in political circles, with many Nigerians describing it as wasteful and
insensitive at a time when citizens are grappling with economic hardship. Critics argued that instead of allocating millions to PAs, the
government should prioritize projects that directly alleviate poverty and reduce unemployment.

But Governor Eno fired back, describing such criticisms as “uninformed attacks.” He emphasized that leadership often requires bold and unpopular
decisions, stressing that his administration is committed to accountability and transparency.

“My administration is focused on delivering value to the people. We cannot always govern based on social media outrage.
The ₦1 million pay is an investment in people who are closer to the grassroots than anyone else. They are partners in driving development.”

Governor Eno further stated that his administration’s priority is grassroots empowerment. The appointment of PAs and their corresponding allowance
is aimed at reducing rural poverty, improving communication between citizens and government, and fostering local participation in governance.

Eno Defends ₦1m Monthly Pay for PAs,

He highlighted that each PA is expected to use part of the funds to support youths, women, and vulnerable groups in their communities. This, he said,
would help cushion the impact of the tough economic climate while also building loyalty and trust between the government and the people.

Political analysts, however, remain divided on whether the policy will yield the intended results. Some argue that the initiative could empower
communities if properly monitored, while others fear it could turn into another avenue for patronage and political loyalty.

The policy has generated intense debates across Akwa Ibom and beyond. On social media, some residents praised the governor for taking a bold
approach to grassroots empowerment, while others accused him of mismanaging state resources.

A Uyo-based youth leader commented: “It’s better than giving PAs nothing. At least they can use the funds to support their communities.
We just hope the money won’t end up being misused.”

Meanwhile, critics continued to insist that the government should redirect funds to education, healthcare, and infrastructure, arguing that such
projects have a more lasting impact than stipends for political aides.

Governor Eno’s defense of the ₦1 million monthly pay raises broader questions about governance priorities in Nigeria. As the country grapples with
rising inflation, unemployment, and poverty, state governments are under pressure to justify every allocation of public funds.

Some governance experts argue that while the initiative could strengthen grassroots engagement, it must be accompanied by strict monitoring and
accountability measures to ensure funds are used for community benefit and not personal enrichment.

Others suggest that the move reflects a broader trend in Nigerian politics where leaders use appointments and stipends to maintain political
structures and loyalty rather than focusing exclusively on institutional reforms.

Governor Umo Eno’s defense of the ₦1 million monthly pay for PAs highlights the complex balance between governance priorities and public expectations.
While he insists the initiative is a grassroots empowerment strategy, critics see it as an unnecessary burden on state finances.
As debates continue, the real test will be whether the policy delivers tangible benefits to ordinary citizens or becomes another flashpoint
in Nigeria’s political controversies.