Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has officially appointed his daughter, Helen Eno-Obareki, as the Acting First Lady of the state. This announcement comes in the wake of the recent passing of his wife, Pastor Patience Eno, leaving the position of First Lady vacant.
Appointment of Helen Eno-Obareki as Acting First Lady
During a condolence visit on October 4, 2024, by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and other dignitaries, Governor Eno revealed his decision to have his daughter take over the responsibilities of the Office of the First Lady. The governor expressed the need for continuity in the programs and projects initiated by his late wife, Pastor Patience Eno, who was deeply involved in social welfare and community development.
“To maintain the Office of the First Lady and carry forward my late wife’s work, I present our daughter, Helen, to continue the duties of the office. She will work closely with the Deputy Governor and the Commissioner for Women’s Affairs and Social Welfare,” the governor announced.
The decision ensures that the First Lady’s office continues to operate efficiently, with a focus on sustaining the legacy left by Pastor Patience Eno.
Commitment to Upholding Late Wife’s Vision
Governor Eno emphasized that his daughter would carry on the important work started by her mother. He expressed confidence in Helen’s ability to uphold the values and vision that defined his late wife’s tenure as First Lady. The governor pledged his support to ensure that all initiatives under the Office of the First Lady would continue as planned.
“Her legacy will live on in our hearts. She initiated several projects, and that’s why I introduced our daughter, Helen, to the First Lady’s role. She will step in to coordinate the work, ensuring that the office continues the programs my wife started.”
Reflecting on His Late Wife’s Impact
Governor Umo Eno also took time to reflect on the deep bond he shared with his late wife. The couple had been together for many years, and he shared personal memories of their journey.
“I married her when she was 19, and I was 22. I called her Oluwa-Kemi because she was truly a gift from God, a source of comfort and succour. We went through many challenges together, and we shared in both victories and losses. Her passing is an irreplaceable loss for me. She was my embodiment of the biblical virtuous woman, my greatest supporter, and also my toughest critic. Her absence will be felt for the rest of my life.”
Dismissing Remarriage Rumors
Addressing rumors of a potential remarriage, Governor Eno humorously dismissed the idea during a separate condolence visit from Senate President Godswill Akpabio. He made it clear that he had no plans to remarry anytime soon, joking that the financial implications of paying another bride price were not something he was prepared for.
“I’m not considering remarrying anytime soon,” Governor Eno said, adding with a laugh, “I don’t have the money to pay another bride price.”
He emphasized that the vacancy left by his wife could never be filled and that his focus would remain on honoring her memory and sustaining her legacy through their daughter’s new role.
Continuity of First Lady’s Programs
The late Pastor Patience Eno had been a strong advocate for women’s empowerment, social welfare, and community development in Akwa Ibom State. Her projects had a significant impact on the lives of many, particularly women and children. With Helen Eno-Obareki stepping in as the Acting First Lady, Governor Umo Eno is committed to ensuring that these projects continue uninterrupted, serving the people of the state and preserving the work that Pastor Patience Eno dedicated her life to.
Future OutLook
The appointment of Helen Eno-Obareki as the Acting First Lady marks a continuation of the vision and values of her late mother, Pastor Patience Eno. Governor Umo Eno’s decision underscores his commitment to maintaining the legacy of his wife while ensuring that the Office of the First Lady continues its vital work in Akwa Ibom State.
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Written By Fortune Davidson