Senate President Godswill Akpabio has joined Akwa Ibom people in celebrating the 38th anniversary of the state’s creation, describing the milestone as a moment of reflection and renewed unity.
In a goodwill message marking the occasion, Akpabio commended Governor Umo Eno for what he called his “visionary and inclusive leadership,” which he said has further strengthened the state’s role in Nigeria’s political and economic landscape.
“Akwa Ibom has remained a hub of peace and development because of the quality of leadership it has enjoyed over the years,” the Senate President said.
“Governor Umo Eno has reconnected the state to the centre in a remarkable way, positioning it for greater opportunities.”
Akpabio, who governed the state between 2007 and 2015, expressed gratitude to Akwa Ibom people for the trust they had reposed in him in the past.
According to him, the support he enjoyed as governor and later as a national representative was a privilege he never took for granted.
“Akwa Ibom presented me to the world,” he noted. “The people gave me the platform to serve, and I remain deeply grateful for that trust.”
Reflecting on the state’s history, Akpabio acknowledged the role of former military president Ibrahim Babangida in creating Akwa Ibom on September 23, 1987, as well as the sacrifices of leaders and stakeholders who fought for its realisation.
He further paid tribute to past administrators and governors for laying a foundation on which the state has continued to grow.
“I must salute our founding leaders, from Tunde Ogbeha to Akpan Isemin, and others who guided Akwa Ibom in its formative years,” he said.
“We also remember Yakubu Bako, Joseph Adeusi, John Ebiye, Victor Attah, and my successor Udom Emmanuel for their contributions.”
The Senate President called on Akwa Ibomites to rally behind Governor Eno and other leaders, stressing that unity and cooperation were vital for the state’s future. He assured the people of his continued advocacy for their interests at the federal level.
“On behalf of my family and the National Assembly, I extend warm congratulations to the governor and the people of Akwa Ibom as we look forward to better days ahead,” Akpabio added.
Akwa Ibom, one of Nigeria’s oil-rich states, has in nearly four decades grown into a key contributor to national development, with strides in infrastructure, education, and economic diversification.