Senate President Godswill Akpabio has thrown his weight behind the re-election bid of Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
The rare gesture of support was delivered on his behalf by the Senate President’s wife, Mrs. Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, during a Town Square meeting held at the Ikot Ekpene Sports Stadium on Thursday.
The endorsement came shortly after Governor Eno openly declared his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ambition to complete two terms in office.
Akpabio, a key leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), expressed deep appreciation for the governor’s leadership style and commitment to empowering the people of the state.
He praised Eno’s inclusive governance and urged residents of the state to look beyond political, religious, and ethnic affiliations for the sake of Akwa Ibom’s progress.
Akpabio also commended the governor for implementing several impactful projects across the Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency, especially through economic empowerment initiatives.
“I urge the people of this constituency to remain united and support the governor’s efforts towards building a stronger and more prosperous Akwa Ibom. Regardless of party lines, I remain committed to supporting Governor Umo Eno beyond 2027,” Akpabio said through his wife.
Also speaking at the event, Hon. Patrick Umoh, who represents Ikot Ekpene-Obot Akara and Essien Udim Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, described the Town Square meeting as a true reflection of democratic values.
Umoh, a member of the APC, applauded Governor Eno’s people-oriented leadership and moved a motion for his re-election in 2027 — a motion that was unanimously supported by constituents present.
In his remarks, Governor Umo Eno expressed gratitude to the people for their overwhelming support and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to grassroots development. As part of his empowerment programme, the governor announced grants totaling N260 million to support 664 farmers, traders, small-scale business owners, and artisans.
The grant distribution included N105 million shared among 210 farmers, N125 million to 255 traders, while six entrepreneurs under the SME category received N5 million each.
Additionally, 184 beneficiaries were provided with equipment to support their businesses, and nine individuals received brand-new vehicles.
Governor Eno advised beneficiaries to use the funds responsibly to grow their businesses and improve their standard of living.
He stressed that there would be no second chance for those who fail to make proper use of the grants.
He also acknowledged the submission of a comprehensive “Needs Document” by the constituents, which he promised would be carefully reviewed and integrated into the 2026 state budget.
According to him, the 2026 financial plan would reflect the genuine needs of the people and promote greater inclusion.
“This document is part of our effort to ensure citizens are involved in the budgeting process. We may not be able to accommodate everything, but we will work within available resources to implement as much as possible,” Eno said.