RismadarVoice Reporters, July 28, 2026
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has dedicated his African Leader in People-Centric Governance Award to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Governor Udom Emmanuel, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, members of the State Executive Council and the people of Akwa Ibom, saying the continental recognition is the result of collective leadership and teamwork.
Governor Eno made the declaration on Monday at the State Executive Council Chambers, Government House, Uyo, while formally receiving the award from the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, who represented him at the presentation ceremony held in Banjul, The Gambia.
The Governor described the honour as a recognition of the collaborative efforts that have driven the implementation of his administration’s ARISE Agenda, stressing that no government succeeds without the support and commitment of its stakeholders.
He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for creating an enabling environment for sub-national governments to pursue their development goals, while acknowledging former Governor Udom Emmanuel for identifying and supporting him to lead the state.
Governor Eno also commended Senate President Godswill Akpabio for his support and cooperation with the state government, and appreciated members of the State Executive Council and the people of Akwa Ibom for their sacrifices, dedication and confidence in his administration.
Drawing an analogy between governance and the human body, the Governor said every individual and institution plays a vital role in the success of government, warning that a lack of cooperation by any segment could affect the overall development of the state.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy across all parts of Akwa Ibom and pledged to sustain policies that promote inclusive development and improve the welfare of citizens.
Governor Eno also thanked Security Watch Africa for conferring the award on him, describing it as an encouragement to remain focused on people-oriented governance.
Presenting the award, Deputy Governor Senator Akon Eyakenyi described Governor Eno as an outstanding leader whose commitment to service has earned him recognition beyond Nigeria’s borders.
She said the Governor’s people-centred leadership philosophy, anchored on service to God and humanity, has continued to attract accolades for both him and Akwa Ibom State.
The African Leader in People-Centric Governance Award was presented by Security Watch Africa during a ceremony at the Sir Dawda Jawara International Conference Centre in Banjul, The Gambia, on July 23, where Gambian President Adama Barrow and other distinguished African leaders were also honoured.
