Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has appointed his daughter, Mrs. Helen Eno Obareki, as the Acting First Lady of the state. The appointment comes in the wake of the recent passing of the governor’s wife, Pastor Patience Umo Eno, who died on September 26, 2024, after a period of illness.
The announcement was made during a condolence visit by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and other dignitaries in Uyo on Friday. Governor Eno introduced his daughter to take on the duties of the First Lady, emphasising the need for continuity in the office and the projects initiated by his late wife, particularly the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA).
“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,” Governor Eno stated. He added that she would work closely with the Deputy Governor and the Commissioner for Women’s Affairs and Social Welfare.
Senator Oluremi Tinubu praised the governor’s decision, describing it as a thoughtful way to preserve the late Pastor Patience Eno’s legacy. She noted that such appointments are not uncommon in other parts of the world, citing examples from the United States.
In a personal moment, Senator Tinubu addressed Helen Eno Obareki, saying, “Your mom didn’t bring you to me for nothing… 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.”
In an emotional tribute to his late wife, Governor Eno described her as his “greatest supporter and toughest critic.” He shared personal details of their relationship, revealing that they married when she was 19 and he was 22. “We went through many challenges together, and her passing is an irreplaceable loss for me,” he said.
The governor stated that while his late wife’s absence is irreplaceable, his focus remains on sustaining her legacy through the work of the First Lady’s office.
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