Akwa Ibom State governor, Umo Eno has expressed gratitude to his predecessor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, and his wife, Dr. Martha, for their contributions to the state’s development during their tenure.
He made the remark at a special Thanksgiving/Welcome Service held at the United Evangelical Church, Lagos Township Superintendency on Sunday,
Eno likened the event to the final day of humanity on earth, when individuals will be welcomed back by Jesus for their good deeds. He acknowledged the impact of Emmanuel and his wife’s work, stating that Akwa Ibom is now a destination of choice due to their efforts.
Eno particularly highlighted the creation of Ibom Air and the construction of new roads, attributing these accomplishments to Emmanuel’s vision and leadership. He also expressed appreciation for Emmanuel’s continued support of his administration.
“They are gifts that God sent to Akwa Ibom and we thank God for that. Whether people say so or not, we appreciate you. Akwa Ibomites appreciate your work and that of your wife. Every week, we have people coming to Akwa Ibom for conferences.
” Akwa Ibom is now a destination of choice because of the work that you and your wife did. I did not create all those new big roads, it was you who modelled and designed all of these things; Ibom Air and all of the beautiful things we have were your creation.
“I’d like to tell you that we are grateful. On behalf of the Akwa Ibom people, I stand to convey these warm wishes, greetings and celebration of Akwa Ibomites to you and your dear wife.
“Sometimes, when you walk into some places, you’ll see how outsiders adore you, the ovation you receive, the kind of welcome you get but while you are yet on the job, there’s no way people will appreciate you.
“Rather than being discouraged and distracted, the Governor said he gets propelled to even work harder in the face of media attacks. I have learnt from you and that is a tonic to do more and not to be distracted,” he said.
In his remarks, former Governor Udom Emmanuel recounted his narrow escape from the Church building collapse in December 2016, describing God’s protection as a “mystery only God can explain.” He expressed gratitude for the completion of his term without any loss of life among his family or colleagues.
Emmanuel also shared his regret over not having full control over policies, believing that greater autonomy would have enabled the state to achieve more significant progress. Despite this, he emphasized his gratitude to God for guiding him throughout his tenure.
Emmanuel recounted the challenges he faced during the 2018 gubernatorial election, including predictions that he would lose. He expressed his belief in a “God of the multitude” and thanked all stakeholders for their support.
He praised Governor Eno’s leadership, particularly the acquisition of the first of ten new Airbus Series aircraft for Ibom Air, emphasizing that this achievement was a first for a Nigerian state.
