President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has urged Akwa Ibom State to deepen its engagement in national politics, stated that the state stand to gain significantly by aligning more closely with the federal centre. He praised Governor Umo Eno’s leadership and pledged his unwavering support for the administration.
Senator Akpabio made this known in a goodwill message delivered on his behalf by Senator Ekong Sampson (Akwa Ibom South) at an interdenominational thanksgiving service marking the second anniversary of Governor Eno’s administration, held at the International Worship Center in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Describing Governor Eno as a bridge-builder, Akpabio commended his commitment to peace and inclusive governance. “What Pastor Umo Eno has shown Nigeria is the model of democracy we must embrace,” Senator Sampson said, speaking on behalf of the Senate President.
He also assured the Governor of continued collaboration from members of the National Assembly to promote the interests of Akwa Ibom at the national level.
In his remarks, Governor Umo Eno identified sustained peace and unity as the cornerstone of his administration’s progress. He reaffirmed his commitment to fostering development while appreciating the contributions of past leaders to the state’s growth.
Governor Eno also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his bold economic policies and vision for long-term sustainability.
The event drew several dignitaries, including the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong; Minister of Petroleum Resources (Gas), Obongemem Ekperikpe Ekpo; and the State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Okon Okon (representing Justice Ekaette Obot). They all hailed Governor Eno’s achievements and lauded his exemplary leadership.
In a symbolic show of unity across party lines, State Chairmen of the PDP and APC, Hon. Aniekan Akpan and Obong Stephen Ntukekpo respectively, alongside the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), jointly praised the Governor’s ARISE Agenda and described him as a unifier and icon of peace.
The thanksgiving service featured inspirational worship sessions, musical performances, and a homily delivered by Pastor Sylvanus Ukafia of Insight Bible Church. The Scripture reading was handled by Mrs. Helen Obareki, Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady.
Also present were the State Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi; Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; former Deputy Governors Ambassador Etim Okpoyo, Obong Nsima Ekere, and Lady Valerie Ebe; former Ministers Obong Umana Okon Umana and Chief Don Etiebet; as well as past and present lawmakers, religious leaders, and prominent members of the Akwa Ibom community.
