Akwa Ibom professionals based outside the State have been enjoined to take a critical look at the banking industry so that they can assist in establishing state-owned financial institution.

Governor Godswill Akpabio made the call Friday when Akwa Ibom Concerned Professionals, Lagos, led by Mr. Udeme Ufot, paid him a courtesy call at Government House, Uyo. He noted that the Cooperative Development Bank owned by the State Government was acquired by another bank as a result of the country’s banking reforms.

Akpabio further called on the professionals to assist government in the industrialisation of the State. “Professionals would be given responsibility irrespective of their political affiliation,” he stated.

The governor also wants the Akwa Ibom Concerned Professionals to establish a newspaper which they can use to tell their stories and have a voice in the country. Akpabio, who described the visit of Akwa Ibom Concerned Professionals to the state as a glorious return, said the avalanche of criticisms of government from the professionals some years ago have gingered the administration to complete numerous projects adjudged today as world-class.

Earlier, the leader of the group, Mr. Ufot, who commended Governor Akpabio for the quality of infrastructure provided in the state, explained that for the sustenance of the Uncommon Transformation of Akwa Ibom, someone who has the required credentials should be the right successor to the Governor.

Mr. Ufot pledged the support of the Akwa Ibom Concerned Professionals to the Akpabio administration and appreciated the governor for giving three of the Professionals opportunity to serve in the state.