The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, emphasized the need for unity as the foundation for advancing the state’s development trajectory and achieving the dreams of its forebears.
Speaking at the gala night marking the state’s 37th anniversary, held at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Uyo, Governor Eno expressed his delight at seeing Akwa Ibom stakeholders from across political divides gather to celebrate the grand event.
Gov. Eno stressed that loyalty to political parties or affiliations with ethnic groups should not prevent the state from achieving its developmental goals, emphasizing that the Akwa Ibom flag must always fly higher than any other consideration.
He noted that at 37, the state has recorded laudable strides, thanks to the quality leaders produced by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over the years.
The Governor appreciated his predecessors and other leaders for their contributions to the Akwa Ibom project and assured that he would continue to run an all-inclusive administration that promotes peace, security, and prosperity across the state.
The State’s Chief Executive used the occasion to honor several Akwa Ibom indigenes who have made significant marks in their careers, including the first indigenous female Commissioner of Police, Regina Cosmas Udoette, and the Mayor of Upper Arlington, Ohio, in the United States of America, Mayor Ukeme Awakessien Jeter.
He also honored the service commanders of the Nigeria Correctional Service and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Mr. Julius Ezugwu and Mr. Eluyemi Eluwade, respectively.
While Ezugwu is retiring from service, Eluwade has been transferred from the state.
The Governor equally honored 12 Akwa Ibomites, referred to as ARISE Ambassadors, who have demonstrated selflessness in their service and contributions to the state’s development.
In his remarks, former Governor Obong Victor Attah said the state has been blessed with good leaders and commended Governor Eno for his developmental efforts, especially in keeping the state unified.
Similarly, former Military Administrator, Col. Yakubu Bako (retd), praised the state’s upward trajectory and described Governor Umo Eno as a compassionate leader whose approach has motivated many to do things right.
He recalled that for 16 years, efforts were made to bring all the state’s leaders together, but they failed. He commended Governor Eno for succeeding in his reconciliation efforts in just over a year in office.
Additionally, the National Treasurer of the Peoples Democratic Party, Ahmed Yayari Mohammed, who was accompanied by the National Woman Leader, Stella Effah-Attoe, remarked that a visit to Akwa Ibom could make one forget they are still in Nigeria.
They described Akwa Ibom as a pacesetter and pride of the party, urging the Governor and other leaders not to rest on their laurels.
Former Deputy Governor, Obong Nsima Ekere, said that at 37, the state has every reason to celebrate, and he commended the Governor for bringing a human touch to governance and for his strides in key development areas, particularly agriculture, education, and housing.
Mayor Ukeme Awakessien Jeter thanked the Governor for the honor bestowed on her during the anniversary and reaffirmed her continued support as a proud ambassador of the state.
Finally, Mr. Ubi Obono Abam, a beneficiary of the ARISE Compassionate Home in Ugep, Cross River State, and his daughter, Miss Arit Abam, expressed their gratitude to the Governor for extending his compassionate leadership to them, despite being far away in Cross River State.
They prayed for more blessings for the Governor and the state.
