Governor Umo Eno commends past leaders and citizens for their roles in Akwa Ibom’s progress as the state marks its 38th anniversary

Umo Eno hails past leaders at Akwa Ibom’s 38th anniversary, commending their contributions to the state’s transformation from a once-obscure region into a beacon of development.

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Speaking at a special banquet to mark the 38th anniversary of the state’s creation, Governor Pastor Umo Eno expressed gratitude to his predecessors, political stakeholders, and citizens for their collective role in advancing the Akwa Ibom project.

“Thirty-eight years down the line, the state has metamorphosed into a destination of choice.

This would not have been possible without the efforts of our past leaders. God has blessed us with progressive-minded leadership,” he said.

The governor highlighted the importance of unity across political divides, noting that blessings and progress can only be achieved where peace thrives.

“Let politics be played with a human face and let us know that after politics, we would all return as Akwa Ibomites,” he added.

Eno celebrated the achievements of Akwa Ibom indigenes making global and national impact, including Mayor Jason Jackson of Islington, UK, and Assistant Commandant General Samuel Okon of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, whom he presented with a new car to support his service.

He also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing financial stability to states, emphasising that Akwa Ibom has not borrowed funds under his administration.

“Akwa Ibom is united for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for Senator Godswill Akpabio, and for our collective future,” he said.

In his remarks, the state’s pioneer military administrator, Col. Tunde Ogbeha (retd), described Akwa Ibom as “a benchmark of progress and development in Nigeria” and praised successive leaders for upholding the vision of the founding fathers.

Both the APC chairman, Obong Stephen Ntukekpo, and PDP chairman, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Akpan, lauded the governor for prioritising peace and unity, pledging continued support for his inclusive leadership.

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Earlier, Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, commended citizens for embracing peace and sustaining the state’s path of sustainable growth.