Gov Eno Urges Ibibio Ethnic Group to Embrace Unity for Akwa Ibom’s Development
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has called on the majority Ibibio ethnic group to prioritize unity and work together for the advancement of peace, development, and progress in the state. His call comes amid growing concerns over ethno-political tensions stirred by certain leaders and stakeholders within the Ibibio nation regarding political matters that were perceived as unfavorable to their clan.
Governor Eno urged those propagating ethnic politics to abandon such divisive approaches in favor of a more inclusive perspective that focuses on the collective good and the development of Akwa Ibom as a whole.
The Governor made this appeal while receiving a delegation from the Akwa Esop Imaisong Ibibio, the premier Ibibio sociocultural association, which paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House in Uyo. The group came to present its new leader, Ntisong Pius James Okon.
Governor Eno, himself an Ibibio, highlighted that the Ibibio people are the fourth-largest ethnic group in Nigeria, stressing the importance of maintaining their unity to ensure their continued strength. He emphasized that a united and peaceful Ibibio community, working in harmony with other ethnic groups in Akwa Ibom, would contribute to the broader peace and unity across the state.
The Governor congratulated Ntisong Pius Okon on his new role and commended the Akwa Esop Imaisong Ibibio for resolving previous internal issues, noting that such discord was unhealthy for the progress of the organization. He also reassured the group of his continuous support, urging them to remain aligned with the ARISE Agenda, the blueprint of his administration.
In his remarks, the President General of the Akwa Ibom Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers and the Oku Ibom Ibibio, Ntenyin Solomon Etuk, explained that the visit was a formal introduction of Ntisong Okon to the Governor. He also took the opportunity to congratulate the Governor for his leadership, which, he said, has fostered peace and unity in Akwa Ibom.
Ntisong Okon praised Governor Eno for his leadership, describing it as a model of vision, humility, and commitment to the welfare of the people. He commended the Governor’s efforts in uniting various interests and fostering sustainable development in the state, noting that his leadership mirrors the enduring wisdom of the Ibibio ancestors.
The visit concluded with the conferment of the title Mkpisong of Akwa Esop Imaisong Ibibio on Governor Eno, who was also honored with the title of patron of the organization.
