Akwa Ibom Governor Appoints Daughter to Head First Lady’s Office, Denies Plans To Remarry
In a heartfelt and unprecedented move, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno, has appointed his daughter, Helen Eno-Obareki, as the Acting First Lady of the state, following the untimely death of his wife, Pastor Patience Eno. The appointment was announced on Friday during a condolence visit by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and a delegation of dignitaries who were in Uyo to pay their respects.
Governor Eno’s decision to appoint his daughter as Acting First Lady serves to ensure the continuity of the important work initiated by his late wife, particularly the social development projects that were so central to her role. Pastor Patience Eno had been instrumental in launching and championing several initiatives through the Office of the First Lady, including the Golden Initiative For All, a project focused on improving the welfare of women and children across Akwa Ibom State.
In his address, the governor spoke with a mix of grief and resolve, expressing both his sorrow over the loss of his wife and his determination to preserve her legacy. “To maintain the Office of the First Lady and carry forward my late wife’s work, I present our daughter, Helen, to continue the duties of the office. She will work closely with the Deputy Governor and the Commissioner for Women’s Affairs and Social Welfare,” Governor Eno stated. His words reflected not only his faith in his daughter’s capabilities but also his deep commitment to sustaining the progress his wife had made during her time as First Lady.
The governor went on to describe his daughter as well-suited for the role, drawing strength from the values instilled in her by her late mother. He acknowledged that while the loss of his wife is irreplaceable, appointing Helen to take on this role would keep Pastor Patience Eno’s vision alive. “Helen will be a fitting steward of her mother’s work, ensuring that the projects designed to uplift the vulnerable in our state continue to flourish,” he added.
During the announcement, Governor Eno also took a moment to reflect on his late wife’s pivotal role in his life, both personally and professionally. In an emotional tribute, he described her as his “greatest supporter and toughest critic,” recalling their shared journey that began when they married at the tender ages of 19 and 22, respectively. “I called her Oluwa-Kemi because she was truly a gift from God. We went through many challenges together, and her passing is an irreplaceable loss for me,” the governor said, his voice heavy with emotion.
The governor made it clear that despite his personal grief, his focus would remain on ensuring that the work his late wife started would not come to a halt. He reassured the people of Akwa Ibom that the initiatives launched under Pastor Patience Eno’s leadership would continue to be a priority for the state government. With his daughter now at the helm of the First Lady’s office, these projects are expected to not only persist but also expand.
During the condolence visit, Senator Oluremi Tinubu praised Governor Eno’s decision, describing it as a thoughtful and strategic move to safeguard the legacy of Pastor Patience Eno. Mrs. Tinubu expressed her confidence in Helen Eno-Obareki’s ability to step into the role, drawing on her close relationship with her late mother and her intimate knowledge of the projects at hand. “Your mom didn’t bring you to me for nothing, and it’s a blessing that your mom’s colleagues and the Vice President’s wife are here to support you. I know you well, and I believe God will guide you. You will accomplish even more than your mother, and He will grant you good health,” Mrs. Tinubu said, offering both comfort and encouragement to the new Acting First Lady.
Governor Eno’s appointment of his daughter has been widely seen as a symbolic act of continuity and stability during a time of great personal loss for the Eno family. It sends a message that the late First Lady’s initiatives will be sustained, not just as government programs, but as a tribute to her life’s work.
In a separate visit, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, while offering his condolences, touched on the rumors circulating about the governor possibly remarrying in the near future. Governor Eno, with a touch of humor, dismissed the speculation, saying, “I’m not considering remarrying anytime soon. I don’t have the money to pay another bride price.” His lighthearted remark was a rare moment of levity in an otherwise somber period.
The passing of Pastor Patience Eno marks a significant loss not only for her family but for the people of Akwa Ibom State, where she was a beloved figure. However, with her daughter Helen stepping into her shoes, there is hope that her vision for social welfare, women’s empowerment, and community development will continue to shape the state’s future.
Governor Umo Eno’s decision to appoint Helen Eno-Obareki as Acting First Lady reflects a deep commitment to preserving his wife’s legacy, while also ensuring that her work lives on in the hands of someone who shares her passion and dedication. It is a poignant reminder that even in the face of personal tragedy, leadership and public service remain paramount, and the work of building a better future for Akwa Ibom will go on.
