First Lady Lauds Gov Eno, Akpabio Over Inclusive Governance

Nigeria’s first lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has applauded the inclusive administration of Governor Umo Eno, noting that his support for women in governance has made the state a model of leadership worthy of emulation by other sub-nationals.

Addressing a mammoth crowd at the commemoration of the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD) held at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, the state capital, over the weekend, Mrs Tinubu acknowledged the unity of purpose foisted on the people by the governor and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, noting that such holistic disposition to governance has given the state an exceptional sense of hospitality and greatness.

She thanked the women drawn from across the 31 local government areas for endorsing her husband, President Bola Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Governor Eno, for second terms respectively, and solicited for more supports for the administration.

“Governor Umo Eno has done remarkably well, and has continued to deliver on the dividends of democracy to the women and the people as a whole. I am so proud of him and Senator Godswill Akpabio for the tangible presence of unity and progress among women and among the people in the state,” she said.

According to the first lady, “The theme for this year’s Women’s Day celebration: ‘Rights, Justice, Action for all Women and Girls,’ is a call to action, protecting the rights of women and girls by ensuring access to education, economic empowerment, health, social protection and equity.”

She enjoined every woman to be a positive tool for change in their homes, businesses, communities, and states.

“I urge you all to continue to support and stand behind your Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, who has greatly distinguished himself in visionary and impactful leadership and development,” she said.

In his remarks, Governor Umo Eno appreciated the first lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu for honouring the state with her visit to inaugurate the Senator Oluremi Tinubu Senior Citizens Center, and also joined the celebration of the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration in the state.

He appreciated President Tinubu for the coastal highway project and the promised Ibom Deep Seaport, which he said would open up new economic opportunities for the state, and pledged the unwavering support of the state for his re-election for a second term in the 2027 election.

The governor congratulated women on their successful celebration of the 2026 International Women’s Day, and promised to continue to support the growth of women and empower them for greater family support in the state.

Addressing the women, the Senate president, Godswill Akpabio, wished Akwa Ibom women well , and commended them for their massive endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, himself, and Governor Eno for re-election come 2027.

Senator Akpabio extolled the virtues of Governor Eno for being a unifier and facilitator of peace in the state, stressing that “When the righteous is on the throne, the people rejoice.”

Also speaking, the minister of Women Affairs, Hon. Imaan Sulaiman Ibrahim, extolled the positive impact of Senator Oluremi Tinubu on the lives of Nigerian women, while congratulating Akwa Ibom women for marking the day with such a grand occasion.

She assured President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the unwavering support of women, promising massive  votes in 2027.

Earlier, in her welcome address, the coordinator, Office of the State First Lady, Lady Helen Obareki, acknowledged that the presence of Senator Oluremi Tinubu has brought great honour to the state and also serves as a huge inspiration to women, families, and communities across the country.

Lady Obareki lauded Senator Oluremi Tinubu for choosing the state to host her on the 2026 International Women’s Day, describing the nation’s First Lady as a woman with the heart of gold and great vision for the development of women.

The highpoint of the occasion was the official proclamation and affirmation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and Governor Umo Eno for re-election in 2027, led by the deputy governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, and the coordinator of the Office of the State First Lady, Lady Helen Obareki.

The event featured presentations of short drama, cultural dance and welcome song by women from the three senatorial districts of the state.