As Akwa Ibom State prepares to mark its 39th anniversary, Governor Umo Eno has called on residents to maintain a spirit of thanksgiving and actively reject divisive rhetoric.
Speaking during a special worship service at the Qua Iboe Church, Ewet Offot, Uyo, the Governor emphasized that the prevailing peace and developmental strides across the state are blessings that must be fiercely guarded rather than taken for granted.
Addressing traditional institutions, religious organizations, and political stakeholders, Governor Eno stressed that preserving unity is a collective responsibility, particularly as the state transitions toward a new political season.
He urged political actors and their supporters to elevate public discourse by focusing strictly on issues, policies, and ideas rather than exploiting ethnic and religious fault lines for political gain.
The Governor noted that the state has evolved past the era where primordial sentiments could be weaponized to divide the populace, advocating instead for political campaigns centered on programs capable of uplifting the living standards of citizens.
He also encouraged the public to make gratitude a lifestyle by appreciating not only God for His faithfulness over the past 39 years, but also the individuals who have contributed to the state’s growth and personal well-being.
In his homily titled “Gratitude,” drawn from Psalm 136:1–3, the General Superintendent of the Qua Iboe Church Conference, Rev. Ekpedeme Moffat Effanga, urged worshippers to translate their thanksgiving into practical acts of love.
He challenged privileged members of society to extend support to the vulnerable and disadvantaged, noting that genuine gratitude must manifest in actions that positively impact the broader community.
In his speech, the Chairman of the Church committee, Elder Ubong David, appreciated Governor Eno for choosing to worship with the congregation and for appointing many of its church members to various positions in government.
David described the appointments as an indication that the church was not left behind in the administration’s ARISE Agenda.
The service drew high-ranking state dignitaries, including Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Elder Udeme Otong, Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, amongst others.
