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Tag: Umo Eno

  • Eno flags off reconstruction of Ibom convention centre to boost tourism

    Eno flags off reconstruction of Ibom convention centre to boost tourism

    Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has officially flagged off the reconstruction of the Ibom International Convention Centre and Hotels in Uyo, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to positioning the state for economic growth beyond oil.

    Speaking at the event held on-site, Governor Eno noted that tourism is a vital pillar of his administration’s ARISE Agenda and stressed that key infrastructure, such as modern conference centres and quality hotels, are essential to achieving that vision.

    He stated that the convention centre and hotel, along with the upcoming ARISE Resort, will serve as strategic landmarks in the state’s tourism development master plan.

    Quoting Hebrews 11:39-40 to highlight the significance of building on past efforts, the governor recalled that the projects were initiated 15 years ago but left uncompleted. 

    He assured the public that his administration is determined to see them through, in line with the state’s renewed focus on sustainable development and economic diversification.

    “I believe in my heart fully that God wanted us to be part of these projects and to drive it to conclusion. We give credence and kudos to all our past leaders, especially the distinguished Senate President, who envisioned this project, we thank all the other leaders that attempted to restart these projects. The last administration did a whole lot but God didn’t let them finish it so that we can participate in it, and bring in all the modern requirements to run an international hotel because that is my industry. There is no way they could have finished these projects without a tourism practitioner. So we thank God.

    The governor who was a major player in the hospitality industry and former Chairman of the State Hotels and Tourism Board, said: “We are gathered here this afternoon, in our determined effort to position Akwa Ibom State as the tourism hub of Nigeria.

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    “I have been asked why we are spending money to complete the 200-bedroom Ibom Hotels which has been abandoned for years and my answer is simple: I came not just to deepen peace and unity in my State but to deploy my finishers’ anointing especially on projects that may have gulped billions of our State’s resources already.

    Speaking further, he said, “With Uyo, our beautiful Capital City today, easily the host city of choice for major seminars, retreats, conventions and other events nationally, and with the 200-bedroom hotel which we are set to complete in 12 months, a world class International Convention Centre, will be an icing on the cake for our vision of delivering a one-stop tourism haven.

    “Let me also reemphasize here that, we are preparing our State beyond oil and one of the key focal areas of our ARISE Agenda is tourism. We are deeply intentional in transforming this sector, considering our comparative advantage.

    “With our ownership of Ibom Air, which ensures the ease of movement, with a world-class international airport that will soon go into operation, a peaceful, united and hospitable people, a range of cuisines that is nationally celebrated as the best, Akwa Ibom State, stands at the cusp of expansion and growth in tourism.

    “Work is ongoing in our ARISE Resort, a marvel of human imagination, which, upon completion will be the best family-themed resort in the nation. With facilities such as a 9-hole golf course, children playground, artificial lakes, banquet hall, tastefully furnished chalets among other facilities, ARISE Resorts will help bring the world to Uyo,” he added.

    Eno therefore called on the people to remain united, reduce unnecessary political bickering as the ARISE Agenda remains his administration’s governing blueprint.

    Members of the National Assembly led by Senator Aniekan Bassey, commended the Governor for his leadership disposition, especially on inclusivity and for bringing government closer to the people.

    He assured that members of the National Assembly are willing and ready to follow and support the Governor’s second term political journey.

    Also speaking, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, said the legislators have observed with delight, the Governor’s commitment to project Akwa Ibom.

    He said they were satisfied that budgetary approvals were judiciously deployed, adding that when completed, the facilities will add appreciable value to the State, while creating jobs.

    On his part, Chief Assam Assam,SAN, recalled that during the electioneering campaign, the Governor had promised to complete abandoned projects without considering the initiator, stressing that the event was a fulfillment of one of the major promises at the campaigns.

    He described the Governor as a jinx breaker saying, “Your Excellency you’re a Jinx breaker. I came to join everyone and tell Your Excellency, you’ve done well. I urged you all to stand with your Governor. The Governor has done well and may God continue to bless him in Jesus name.”

    In an overview of the project, Commissioner for Special Duties and Ibom Deep Seaport, Comrade Ini Ememobong said both facilities were critical in the tourism equation of the State adding that when completed, the facilities will direct tourism traffic to the State.

    The Chairman of Uyo, Dr. Uwemedimo Udo, and his Ibesikpo-Asutan counterpart, Mr. Edidiong Inyang as well as the Paramount Ruler of Ibesikpo-Asutan Local Government Area, Edidem Clement Ekpenyong, appreciated the Governor for his unique leadership style, especially his commitment to completing projects that were not initiated by him.

  • President’s performance wonderful, says Eno

    President’s performance wonderful, says Eno

    Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is doing “wonderfully well” in tackling the challenges he met on assumption of office two years ago.

    He urged Nigerians to rally behind the President to enable him to consolidate on the reforms already underway.

    Speaking to reporters yesterday after a meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima at the State House, Eno praised the President’s handling of national issues, insisting that the difficulties Nigerians are facing did not begin with the current administration.

    “Wonderful,” he said when asked to assess President Tinubu’s two years in office.

    “Like I keep saying to everybody, President Tinubu didn’t create the problem we are in right now.

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    “I believe he is doing his best, and he should be supported,” the governor said.

    His comments came at a time of heightened public discourse around the administration’s economic reforms and national security efforts, as President Tinubu marks his second year next week.

    On his stewardship in Akwa Ibom, Eno highlighted the achievements of his administration over the past two years, noting that significant work had been done across key sectors, including education, healthcare, roads, and commerce.

    “When you come to Akwa Ibom, you find out that we have covered all of this and we are working – from schools to hospitals, roads and markets. In all areas, we are on ground,” he said.

    Looking ahead, Eno said his administration would focus on major projects, building on a foundation of rural development laid in the first two years.

    “Super infrastructural development. The first two years have been on rural development. We are now moving on to great infrastructure.

    “We want to make Akwa Ibom a tourist destination, and we are on the way,” he promised.

    Responding to a question about how his administration differs from previous ones, the governor praised his predecessors for their contributions to the state’s growth, saying his government is building on their legacy.

    “I think we have built on what my predecessors have done. Akwa Ibom has been particularly lucky. We have been blessed with good leaders—from Obong Attah to Akpabio to Chief Udom Emmanuel.

    “That’s the trajectory. So it’s a foundation—you come, you build—and it’s a solid foundation.

    “I think the state is doing well compared to other states,” he said.

  • Akwa Ibom has adopted Tinubu, Eno for 2027, says Senate President

    Akwa Ibom has adopted Tinubu, Eno for 2027, says Senate President

    enate President Godswill Akpabio on Friday said Akwa Ibom State has endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, himself and Governor Umo Eno for the  2027 general elections.

    Akpabio spoke  at the 2nd phase of his constituency empowerment programme for over 3,000 beneficiaries and projects commissioning in Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District.

    “Let me thank Governor Umo Eno because he is a man of peace. He is a man of God both in attitude and actions. He has been able to bring us all together in Akwa Ibom and that is why we are enjoying peace in the state, because he acts his words.

    “President Tinubu is very happy with Akwa Ibom State because of the peace in the state through collaborations of Governor Eno and the President of the State, which has brought development to the state,” Akpabio was quoted in a statement by his media office to have said.

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    According to the statement, the decision to endorse the trio as sole candidates for the office of the President, Senator representing the people of Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District and the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, received a voice endorsement from the crowd when Akpabio put the decision to vote.

    At the event, Akpabio was said to have given out mini buses, cars, tricycles, fridges, sewing machines, cash grants of over N2billion and scholarships to the constituents and beneficiaries from the other two Senatorial Districts of Akwa Ibom State.

  • Umo Eno’s return to Bethel

    Umo Eno’s return to Bethel

    Last Sunday, Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno returned to worship at The Apostolic Church, Maboju, Lagos, where it was prophesied 45 years ago that he would become governor. The governor and his family were members of the congregation before he went to serve his state. ANIEKAN UMANAH writes.

    Sunday, May 11, 2025 will linger in the memory of worshippers at The Apostolic Church, Maboju, a rustic,  settlement behind the Nigerian Air (Sam Ethinan) Base, Ikeja, Lagos. That morning, Maboju near Shogunle was astir, amid a procession of destiny, as a convoy of vehicles glided through the narrow lanes leading to the community. Nearby, the old chapel stood in its majesty. The air was thick with expectations, the altar lit with a prophecy fulfilled. Here was the womb that carried the prophecy!

    At the heart of it all was the compassionate Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, who returned not merely as a politician, but as a son coming home to Bethel. He was sandwiched  by  his children, family members and a constellation of Nigeria’s finest: dignitaries, ministers, lawmakers, captains of industry, religious and traditional leaders. Their presence lent an incandescent aura to the day, but the spirit of the gathering was humbler as it was a day of thanksgiving.

      The governor, as usual cut a distinguished figure clad in a blue  designer suit that hugged his frame, a red silk tie, and an immaculate white shirt. His pure leather shoes exuded class with every step, while his wrist adorned an ornate  Swiss watch, merging timeless culture with contemporary elegance, all singing to the God who whispered his destiny earlier through the prophecy that has been fulfilled.

    The man of destiny recounted how, as a young boy, a little girl in the church prayer band prophesied that he would one day return to his homeland to govern his people. The governor had returned to his  homeland to do business and at the fullness of time govern his people. Yet, he  returned to where it all started for a thanksgiving, reliving a moment he once dismissed with disbelief and youthful  aggravation after the death of his father, and with six siblings to cater for, in addition to the fact that he was newly married.

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    In the governor’s characteristic life of appreciation, it was a journey back to his sacred roots, where he found healing in the church’s revival meeting that his mother took him to. It was there that he sang in the choir, prayed as a deacon, interpreted the Word, and even led the building committee. It was also there, in 1980, that a child’s voice, innocent yet anointed foretold his future as a governor.

    Over four decades and many battles later, he stood on that same altar, taller and fulfilled as the governor of Akwa Ibom in fulfilment of the  prophecy which he said “God used my boss and immediate past Governor Udom Emmanuel to fulfil“.

    “The Spirit of the Lord laid heavily on my heart to return to Bethel,” he said, his voice carrying the weight of years and testimony. “When a child forgets the blessings of yesterday, he forfeits the blessings of tomorrow”. Many decades have passed, and as it was foretold, a five-star governor is here!

    The governor’s words echoed as he struck a chord of unity, soft yet firm, clear as the morning light.

    “Akwa Ibom is more united today than I met it,” he said, his words soothing to the nerve.

    In his vision, parties are just vehicles, not destinations. What matters is not the colour of allegiance, but the heartbeat of the people.

    “We govern beyond party lines for the  unity and progress of our state“, he said.

    Speaking not from the pulpit of power but his heart, Eno declared:  “No political party can define who I am”, asserting that identity, purpose, and leadership are crafted in the spirit, not by platforms. He spoke like a watchman who sees beyond the hills, urging the people to “understand the times and seasons,” as the sons of Issachar once did.

    “When a driver is on the steering, he’s the one who sees the potholes, he’s the one who knows how to dodge them. As the driver now by the grace of God, I know where to avoid potholes and ditches until we get to our destination” he quipped.

    And with scriptural solemnity, he declared: “He who has ear, let him hear what the Spirit says.”

    Preaching on the theme: “Greatness in humility,” Pastor (Dr) Gabriel Uyeh, National Vice President of The Apostolic Church, praised Eno’s simple and spiritual approach to leadership.

    “Humility is the foundation of greatness. And your thanksgiving today proves that leadership is a divine call, not a political career,” he said.

    In a gesture befitting the grace he received, the governor led a wave of giving and donations that raised over N250 million for the church, clergy, and community. But more than the money, it was the poetry of the moment that lingered.The boy healed in a revival, now blessing a generation.

    Pastor Solomon Nkopeti, Apostle of the District, spoke of Eno’s service in Maboju with glowing clarity. “You walked and worked among us, not with power, but as a brother in Christ. Your Excellency, you served here  with the humility of a brother in Christ. You are a faithful son of the Apostolic vision.”

    The choir, once led by a young Umo, now sang for a governor, yet in their voices, it was still the same faith.

    Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs ‘Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, described the governor as a ‘Lagos boy’. “Your thanksgiving reminds us that without God, we are nothing. Your leadership reflects your moral upbringing. Lagos is proud of your journey”, Sanwo-Olu said.

     Eno, graceful and grounded, ended with a lesson etched in wisdom: “God will use whomever He pleases. Your helper may not be from your village, or even your faith. Be kind, for destiny listens.”

    And so Maboju, dusty and small, became once more a stage for the miraculous. As the sun faded behind the chapel’s iron roof, time stood still bearing witness that grace, when remembered, becomes glory.

    The celebration transitioned into a vibrant reception ceremony at Ikeja GRA , echoing with traditional melodies and heartfelt testimonies. Guests were treated to a beautiful convergence of Akwa Ibom and English delicacies, with music, and joy radiating from every corner.

    The homecoming thanksgiving had top government officials legislators, religious and traditional leaders, and other eminent Nigerians in attendance.

    It was a fitting close to a day wrapped in grace where the past met the present, and a prophecy found its voice again at The Apostolic Church, Maboju Assembly.

    • Umanah is Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information

  • Gov Eno for excellence award in Ghana

    Gov Eno for excellence award in Ghana

    The Millennium Excellence Foundation (MEF) has announced Akwa Ibom Governor Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, will be honoured with the prestigious Lifetime Africa Achievement Prize (LAAP) in Governance and Public Service.

    The announcement was contained in a statement by Insah Iddrisu, Director of Communications for the Millennium Excellence Foundation on Tuesday, May 6, 2025 in Accra , Ghana. 

    The statement said the award will be presented  to the Governor and other top Africans on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at a high-profile ceremony at the historic Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, Ghana. 

    The event will be hosted by His Royal Majesty, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene and Life Patron of the Millennium Excellence Foundation.

    The LAAP is one of Africa’s most distinguished recognitions, awarded biennially to outstanding individuals and institutions that have made exceptional contributions to leadership, governance, and continental development. Governor Umo Eno is being celebrated for his transformative and inclusive governance, with a strong emphasis on rural development, agriculture, tourism, and social welfare, all of which have significantly improved the quality of life in Akwa Ibom State.

    His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II praised the governor’s leadership style, noting that “Governor Eno’s commitment to uplifting lives through innovative governance has made him a model of sub-national leadership in Africa. His inclusive political approach and dedication to excellence endeared him to our Continental Selection Board.”

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    Other distinguished laureates for the 2025 LAAP include H.E. John Dramani Mahama,  President of Ghana; H.E. Carlos Vila Nova, President of São Tomé and Príncipe; Pedro Santos of Angola, Kone Dossongui of Côte d’Ivoire, and Koffi Djondo of Togo. Several global dignitaries are expected at the event, with Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria.

    Nigeria’s previous recipients of the Millennium Excellence Awards include President Goodluck Jonathan, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Tony Elumelu, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and Professor Wole Soyinka.

    The Millennium Excellence Foundation, founded in 1998 by Ambassador Nana Agyeman Prempeh (Ashim Morton), is committed to celebrating African excellence in leadership, peacebuilding, education, and sustainable development. Its inaugural awards ceremony took place in the year 2000.

    Governor Umo Eno’s recognition marks another milestone for Akwa Ibom State on the continental stage, affirming his administration’s far-reaching impact in public service.

  • A’Ibom will benefit more if Eno defects to APC, says APC chieftain

    A’Ibom will benefit more if Eno defects to APC, says APC chieftain

    A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Vincent Essien has said that Akwa Ibom state will benefit more than ever before if Governor Umo Eno defects to the ruling party.

    Essien, a legal practitioner, has averred that apart from the fact that Akwa Ibom will be more connected to the state, the governor’s defection to APC will attract quantum human and infrastructural development to the state.

    “Knowing Governor Umo Eno, and watching his determined focus on elevating the status and development of the state, any decision he makes will not be driven by mere political considerations,” he said.

    “Just within two years, the governor has in addition to infrastructure and human development, changed the political demographic status of the State into one big political entity devoid of party colouration, something that has never happened since the creation of Akwa Ibom State.”

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    “His open declaration of support for President Bola Tinubu is unprecedented and a clear political masterstroke that will attract massive Federal government presence and development to the state,” he maintained.

    He cited the passionate manner in which the Governor advocated and secured commitment for the reconstruction of the long stalled Calabar-Itu Federal Highway, the collaboration to secure the start of the Coastal Highway from Calabar through Oron in Akwa ibom and the renewed push for the actualisation of the Ibom Deep Sea port and many other projects as accelerated benefits that will occur to the State.

    “So far, the governor’s focus on uniting the state and accelerating the pace of development has been outstanding, so there is a need for all, irrespective of political affiliation, to queue behind him to ensure he succeeds in this project.”

  • Uyo agog for Pastor Umo Eno Arise Cup grand finale

    Uyo agog for Pastor Umo Eno Arise Cup grand finale

    After weeks of intense  action and energetic display, Uyo,  the capital of Akwa Ibom State, will come alive  tomorrow  for the grand finale of  the  4th Edition of the Pastor Umo Eno Easter U-16 Arise Cup.

    Organisers said Sunday’s event  would be  an ‘electrifying showdown’ as Akwa Ibom’s brightest young football talents battle it out in the final stage of the prestigious grassroots’ football showdown. Billed for the Uyo Township Stadium, the proceeding  would  start  with the 3rd  Place Match between Miracle Soccer FA  and De Ark FC while Pillars FA and Redemption FC will lock horns for the gold medal match  afterwards.

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    Expected  to be at the grand  finale of the Arise Unity Cup is  Akwa Ibom State  Governor Pastor Umo Eno along with his deputy Senator Dr. (Mrs.) Akon Eyakenyi  along with some other high-ranking  officials in the  state including the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong as well as the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah . President of the Grassroots Sports Federation of Nigeria (GRASOF), Hon. John Ekpenyong  who doubles as the Tournament Coordinator, informed that Elder Paul Bassey , the state’s Commissioner for Sports, would be the  chief host of Sunday’s showpiece.

  • NLC, TUC pass vote of confidence on Gov Eno

    NLC, TUC pass vote of confidence on Gov Eno

    The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Akwa Ibom State have passed a vote of confidence on Governor Umo Eno for his outstanding commitment to workers’ welfare.

    The declaration was made during the 2025 International Workers’ Day celebration at the Uyo Township Stadium.

    Akwa Ibom Chairman of the NLC, Comrade Sunny James highlighted Eno’s fulfillment of promises to workers, including the clearance of a staggering N78 billion in outstanding entitlements from  inherited obligations 

    He praised Eno for resolving 18 of the 25 demands presented by organized labour and for initiating the refund of 7.5 percent contributory pensions amounting to over N2.6 billion, especially for primary school teachers.

    In a further boost to workers’ morale, Comrade James lauded the Governor’s approval of the N80,000 minimum wage, urging private employers across the state to follow suit.

    “The time to support His Excellency is now. It is time for all of us to queue behind the Governor,” he emphasized.

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    “Your Excellency, I want to say the Organized Labour of Akwa Ibom State passes a vote of confidence on the Governor for looking in the direction of workers’ welfare,” Comrade James stated.

    Echoing similar sentiments, the Chairman of the TUC in Akwa Ibom State, Comrade Dr. Dominic Abang, described Eno as the most outstanding Governor in Akwa Ibom’s history. 

    He applauded initiatives like the donation of 150 housing units for civil servants, the full implementation of the State Health Insurance Scheme, and the administration’s workers-first posture.

    In recognition of his labour-friendly policies, the TUC presented Governor Eno with an Award of Excellence as Nigeria’s Best Performing and Labour-Friendly Governor.

    The 2025 Workers’ Day celebration in Akwa Ibom thus became not just a rally for workers’ rights, but a heartfelt endorsement of leadership that prioritizes people over politics.

  • Eno, others win 2024 Industry Awards

    Eno, others win 2024 Industry Awards

    The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, Chairman/CEO of BUA Group, Alhaji Abdulsamad Rabiu and others have emerged winners of the Industry Awards.

    While Eno won the Industry Governor of the Year for his policies and programmes designed to promote and improve startups and entrepreneurship in the state, Rabiu emerged Business Personality of the Year.

    In the year under review, Pastor Eno has demonstrated exceptional leadership, driving development and progress through innovative policies and initiatives.  His commitment to improving the lives of Akwa Ibom citizens is truly commendable.

    The sixth edition of the awards which precedes the industry summit 2025 is scheduled to be held in Lagos on Saturday, May 3rd.

    In a statement made available to the media, the organisers, The Industry Newspaper, also listed the GMD/CEO, SO&U, Udeme Ufot as Doyen of Advertising, Senior Special Assistant   to President of Nigeria, O’tega Ogra as the Spokesperson of the Year, CEO of Simba Group, Chief Vinay Grover as Green Energy champion and Chief Commercial Officer of TGI Group, Probal Bhattacharya as CMO of the year.

    Other notable personalities who also the 2024 Industry Awards include Founder & CEO, AAJ Express, Ambassador Adekunle Adeyemo- Logistics Champion, CEO, NigerBev Limited, Dr. Obinna Ike- CEO of the Year, GMD/CEO, Verdant Zeal Advertising, Dr. Tunji Olugbodi- Industry Pathfinder, CEO, Chain Reactions Africa, Israel Opayemi Industry Pathfinder, COO, Leo Burnett Lagos, Mrs. Seyi Layade- Industry Pathfinder, CEO, Integrated Indigo, Bolaji Abimbola- PR Man of the Year, CEO, Abelinis, Abiodun Oshinibosi- Industry Pathfinder and CEO, FPL Media, Lanre Ashaolu as OOH player of the year.

    Convener of the project, Goddie Ofose, said: “Pastor Umo Eno, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, has significantly impacted entrepreneurship development through his ARISE Agenda, a comprehensive initiative that includes providing financial and material support, training, and partnerships with institutions like the Bank of Industry.

    “He has also focused on empowering women and youth through specific programs like the Ibom-LED Entrepreneurship Accelerator Programme, providing equipment to small businesses, covering a wide range of trades like tailoring, barbing, shoemaking, and more. Through these programmes, Eno’s government has offered grants and partnerships with financial institutions like the Bank of Industry to provide low-interest loans to SMEs.”

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    Speaking on the importance of Industry Awards, Ofose said, “Industry Awards is a validation of excellence. The awards recognize and validate outstanding achievements, innovations, and contributions to the integrated marketing communications, banking, energy, pension funds, insurance, governance and other allied industries.

    He said: “Winning an award can boost an organization’s reputation and credibility within the industry and this can translate to increased visibility and exposure for organizations, helping to attract new customers, investors, and talent.

    “Industry Awards can differentiate winners from competitors and provide a competitive edge and these have been proven in our previous winners.”

    Previous winners of this coveted trophy include, Lagos State Governor, H.E. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Borno State Governor, Prof Babagana Zulum, former Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Emmanuel Udom, Sir Biodun Shobanjo, Sir Steve Omojafor, Mr. Funmi Onabolu, Mr. Steve Babaeko and others.

  • Eno’s Unity Cup begins with pomp in Uyo

    Eno’s Unity Cup begins with pomp in Uyo

    The 4th  edition of the Pastor Umo Eno ARISE U-16 Easter Unity Cup began in grand style yesterday , April 21, at the Uyo Township Stadium. The stadium came alive with excitement as young footballers from across Akwa Ibom and beyond gathered to show their skills and passion for the game.

    The official kick-off was done by the chairman of Mkpat Enin Local Government Area, Engr. Emmanuel Inyang, who represented Governor Umo Eno. His presence showed the Governor’s strong support for youth development through sports.

    The ARISE Unity Cup is more than just a football competition. It is a way of using football to bring young people together, teach them discipline, and help them chase their dreams. Although the match started around 4:00 PM instead of the planned 3:00 PM, the energy and excitement in the air made the wait worthwhile.

    Engr. Inyang was warmly received by the tournament’s coordinator and President of the Grassroots Sports Federation (GRASSOF), Hon. John Ekpenyong. He was introduced to other organisers and officials of the State Football Association. In his speech, he praised the organizers and said the tournament is a powerful tool to build unity and discover talents that can shine on national and international stages.

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    Among the special guests was Comrade Obot Udoka, a former footballer who once played professionally in Sweden. He represented the Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Football Association. His presence showed that the football authorities in the state are fully behind the tournament.

    Kufre Etukudo, who represented the Honourable Commissioner for Sports, also shared words of encouragement. He assured everyone that the Ministry of Sports will continue to support programs like this that give young people the chance to succeed through football.

    Ita Peters, Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, thanked the state government for always supporting the tournament. He said the ARISE Unity Cup is not just about winning or losing, but about building the future. According to him, the boys playing today might become the next Victor Osimhen or Jay-Jay Okocha if given proper support.

    Hon. John Ekpenyong added that the tournament is a big step forward for grassroots football. He explained that with the help of Governor Umo Eno, GRASSOF is building a system that helps discover talent, promote good values, and bring communities together. He also promised that this year’s edition will be very fair, with strict screening, good officiating, and equal chances for everyone.

    Earlier in the day, the Local Organizing Committee, through its Secretary, Hon. Bush Udombo, had informed the public that screening of players would begin at 10:00 AM, and match passes would be given out at 1:00 PM to prepare for the opening game.

    The first match between Mkpat Enin LGA and Solo Wonders Football Academy of Abia State did not disappoint. It was full of energy, skills, and excitement. Mkpat Enin won 3-2 in a tight and thrilling game that kept the crowd on their feet.

    As the tournament continues, more games will be played, and scouts, fans, and football lovers will be watching closely to see who the next big stars might be.

    The ARISE Unity Cup is more than just a tournament—it is a light of hope. It shows that with the right support, young people can rise, grow, and make a difference. Through this initiative, Governor Umo Eno is showing that he truly believes in the power of youth and the future of Akwa Ibom football.

    Every goal scored, every pass made, and every cheer from the crowd is a sign that something great is being built—right here on our own soil.