Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, has declared peace and unity as the greatest enablers of progress under his administration, asserting that without the prevailing atmosphere of harmony, meaningful development would not have been possible in the last two years.
Speaking at a Special Thanksgiving Service held on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at the International Christian Worship Centre, Uyo, Governor Eno emphasized that the strength of his administration lies in the sustained peace across the state.
“If anyone asks me what has been the greatest achievement of this administration in two years, it is the unity and peace we have achieved in this State. That peace has allowed for concentration and development,” the Governor stated.
He described Akwa Ibom as a united family and called on citizens to embrace dialogue, tolerance, and mutual respect. “We can sit together, eat together, live together. We are all stakeholders in Akwa Ibom. Nothing is more important than the peace and unity we are enjoying,” he added.
In a tone filled with humility and gratitude, Governor Eno declared that God’s guidance had been instrumental in the journey so far. “It is the Lord that has led us this far. At the beginning of this administration, I told God to lead the way. And in these two years through storms and thick clouds,
God has shown the way.”
Governor Eno used the occasion to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his bold and visionary decisions, which, he said, have enabled sub-national governments to drive development initiatives with greater autonomy. “President Tinubu’s reforms have empowered states to act decisively and responsibly. We must support our leaders to succeed,” he affirmed.
He also extended appreciation to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and past governors of the state—Obong Victor Attah, Dr. Godswill Akpabio, and Deacon Udom Emmanuel, for laying the strong foundation on which the state continues to build.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Senate President, Senator Ekong Sampson described Governor Eno as a “bridge builder,” commending his efforts in fostering a culture of peace and inclusion. “What Pastor Umo Eno has shown Nigeria is the model of democracy we must embrace,” he said.
In a similar vein, Minister of State for Petroleum (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, lauded the Governor for his inclusive style of governance. “Sir, today you have taught us to respect our elders,” he noted, while calling on all stakeholders to rally behind the Governor’s development-focused administration.
Also speaking, the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, praised Governor Eno’s financial discipline, noting that despite executing numerous capital projects, the state has not resorted to borrowing. “This is leadership by example,” he affirmed.
The Judiciary, represented by Hon. Justice Okon Okon, expressed appreciation for the Governor’s support, particularly plans to build a modern housing estate for judicial officers.
In a rare display of bipartisan unity, leaders of major political parties including Elder Aniekan Akpan (PDP), Obong Stephen Ntukekpo (APC), and representatives of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) unanimously praised the Governor’s ARISE Agenda and his role in de-escalating political tensions and ending thuggery in the state.
The thanksgiving service featured spirit-lifting worship sessions, Bible readings, and inspiring musical ministrations by Moses Bliss and John Bassey. The only scripture reading, taken from Lamentations 3:23, was delivered by Mrs. Helen Obareki, Coordinator in the Office of the First Lady, while Pastor Dr. Sylvanus Ukafia preached on the theme “Great is Thy Faithfulness,” reminding all of God’s unwavering commitment to His people.
Notable dignitaries at the event included the Deputy Governor, Senator Dr. Akon Eyakenyi and spouse; Minister Ekperikpe Ekpo; National Assembly Members; Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; Speaker and members of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly; and several former Deputy Governors including Chief Etim Okpoyo, Obong Nsima Ekere, and Lady Valerie Ebe.
Also present were former SSG and ex-Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Obong Umana Okon Umana; Elder Statesman, Obong Michael Afangideh; former Petroleum Minister, Atuekong Don Etiebet; former PDP Legal Adviser, Barr. Emmanuel Enoidem; former federal lawmaker, Rt. Hon. Onofiok Luke; religious leaders, traditional rulers, business leaders, and members of the wider Akwa Ibom community.
Governor Eno’s message was unmistakable: the unity of Akwa Ibom people is non-negotiable, and the peace they enjoy will continue to be the cornerstone of the state’s transformation.
