Eno appoints daughter as acting First Lady of Akwa Ibom state

Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has appointed his daughter, Mrs. Helen Eno Obareki, as the acting First Lady of the state, following the passing of his wife, Pastor Patience Umo Eno.

The appointment, according to the government, is aimed at continuing Pastor Patience’s legacy, particularly her cherished initiative, the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA).

The announcement was made during a condolence visit by Senator Oluremi Tinubu to the Eno family in Uyo on Friday.

Senator Tinubu commended the governor’s decision, noting that it reflects a thoughtful approach to sustaining Patience’s work, likening it to practices seen in the United States.

Governor Eno, sharing his deep connection with his late wife, remarked, “I married her when she was 19, and I was 22. She was truly a gift from God.” He expressed his profound sense of loss, describing Pastor Patience as his embodiment of a biblical virtuous woman.

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Introducing his daughter, Helen, to the public, Governor Eno acknowledged the challenges ahead but affirmed his confidence in her ability to carry on her mother’s work, saying, “It is not an easy task, but I present our daughter, Helen, to continue the duties of the office.”

Senator Tinubu also offered support to Helen, stating, “Your mom didn’t bring you to me for nothing. I believe God will guide you through this.”

Governor Eno humorously addressed rumors of remarrying, saying, “I’m not considering remarrying anytime soon. I don’t have the money to pay another bride price,” emphasizing that his late wife’s legacy will live on through Helen’s stewardship of the First Lady’s office and its programmes.