RismadarVoice Reporters, April 11, 2026
Akwa Ibom indigenes residing in Rivers State have formally endorsed Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, alongside Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno as sole candidates for the forthcoming general elections.
The endorsement was announced on Saturday during the inauguration of the Rivers State chapter and advisory committees of the Arise With Renewed Hope Initiative, a political support group aligned with the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a statement issued by its Media and Publicity Directorate, the group’s International Executive Committee and Board of Trustees expressed appreciation to members of the Akwa Ibom community in Rivers State for what it described as a “unanimous adoption” of the three political leaders.
According to the statement, the development reflects growing support for the APC and its leadership beyond traditional strongholds. The group noted that similar structures have recently been inaugurated in other locations, including Cross River State and the Federal Capital Territory, as part of efforts to consolidate grassroots mobilization.
The initiative also called on members to participate actively in the electoral process, including returning to their home state during the elections to support the party’s candidates. It described Akwa Ibom indigenes in Rivers State as “strategic” to achieving electoral success in the next polls.
The statement further acknowledged the role of the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Victor Antai, for his support in ensuring the success of the event.
It also commended Akpabio and Eno, identified as grand patrons of the initiative, for what it termed their “steadfast and visionary leadership.”
The endorsement adds to a series of political alignments and mobilization efforts currently underway ahead of Nigeria’s next general elections, as parties and affiliated groups intensify campaigns across states and diaspora communities.
