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In a heartfelt announcement, Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has appointed his daughter, Helen Eno-Obareki, as the Acting First Lady of the state after the passing of his beloved wife, Pastor Patience Eno. This significant decision was made during a condolence visit by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, along with other dignitaries in Uyo.
Continuing a Legacy
Governor Eno expressed his desire to maintain the continuity of the First Lady’s office and ensure that the impactful projects initiated by his late wife, particularly the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA), continue to thrive. “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,” he stated. Helen will collaborate closely with the Deputy Governor and the Commissioner for Women’s Affairs and Social Welfare.
An Emotional Tribute
In an emotional tribute, Governor Eno reflected on his deep bond with his late wife, describing her as his “greatest supporter and toughest critic.” He reminisced about their journey together, noting that they married when she was just 19 and he was 22. “Her passing is an irreplaceable loss for me,” he shared, emphasizing his commitment to preserving her legacy through the initiatives she championed.
Support from Nigeria’s First Lady
During her visit, Senator Tinubu praised Governor Eno’s decision to appoint his daughter as Acting First Lady. She called it a thoughtful way to honor Pastor Patience’s legacy and expressed confidence in Helen’s ability to excel in her new role. “Your mom didn’t bring you to me for nothing,” she encouraged Helen, assuring her of support from both her mother’s colleagues and other prominent figures.
Addressing Remarrying Rumors
In light of recent rumors regarding his personal life, Governor Eno humorously dismissed claims about remarrying. During a separate engagement with Senate President Godswill Akpabio, he remarked, “I’m not considering remarrying anytime soon. I don’t have the money to pay another bride price,” lightening the mood amidst the serious discussions.
Conclusion
With Helen Eno-Obareki stepping into her new role as Acting First Lady, there is a sense of continuity and hope for the future of Akwa Ibom State. Governor Eno’s commitment to sustaining his late wife’s initiatives assures citizens that her impactful work will carry on. As this new chapter unfolds, all eyes will be on how Helen navigates her responsibilities while honoring her mother’s legacy. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story!
