The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive governance, emphasizing that his recognition as Governor of the Year by Leadership Newspaper is not just a personal honor but a testament to the collective efforts of his administration and the people of Akwa Ibom State.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by a delegation from Leadership Newspaper, who officially notified and invited him to the conferment ceremony, Governor Eno expressed gratitude for the recognition. He described the award as a call to do more in delivering impactful governance to the people.
“This award is not an honor to me alone but to the entire people of Akwa Ibom State,” the Governor said. “No leader succeeds alone. It is an indication that we are on the national stage, and it motivates us to continue delivering dividends of democracy to every part of the state, irrespective of differences.”
He noted that his 30 years of living among the people have given him a deep understanding of their needs, especially those in the hinterlands. This, he explained, drives his bottom-up approach to governance to ensure the grassroots are fully integrated into the development process.
“The rural communities should not only be visited during elections with bags of rice,” the Governor said. “They deserve consistent attention, and that’s why we are committed to bringing a touch of governance to the downtrodden and the vulnerable.”
Governor Eno also dedicated the award to his late wife, Pastor Patience Eno, for her unwavering support and to his team, including members of the former State Executive Council. “Their hard work culminated in this recognition,” he stated, adding that the decision to rejig his cabinet was not due to lack of performance but to strengthen service delivery further.
The delegation from Leadership Newspaper, led by its Vice Chairman, Chief Mike Okpere, explained that the award was based on a comprehensive review of the Governor’s achievements in office. “Your name first came up in November 2023, but we chose to observe further. It was unanimously agreed that you deserve the title of Governor of the Year,” Okpere said.
He emphasized that the award is non-partisan and based on merit, reflecting the Governor’s positive impact on political and economic growth. The official conferment is scheduled for April 8, 2025, where Governor Eno will share the stage with other distinguished awardees, including Alhaji Aliko Dangote, the Newspaper’s Person of the Year.
Governor Eno concluded by pledging to continue working towards political inclusivity, unity, and development for Akwa Ibom State. “This award will ginger us to do more,” he said, “and ensure that the welfare of the people remains our greatest legacy project.”
Among the delegation were Mr. Abraham Nda-Isaiah, a director at Leadership Newspaper, and the state correspondent, Mr. Iniobong Ekponta. Also present during the visit were key officials of the Akwa Ibom State Government, including the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, and the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah.
