2027: Akpabio backs Tinubu, Eno

UYO — Senate President Godswill Akpabio has called for support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno ahead of the 2027 elections.

Akpabio made the call during activities marking the 39th anniversary of the creation of Akwa Ibom State, where he also commended Eno for what he described as his development efforts and commitment to peace and economic advancement.

The Senate President said Tinubu remained a friend of the South-South region and expressed confidence that the President would receive strong support from the region and other parts of the country.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a friend of the South-South zone and he will get maximum victory from the region and other parts of the country,” Akpabio said.

Akpabio also commended Eno, stressing that the progress of Akwa Ibom should transcend partisan considerations.

In a goodwill message to mark the anniversary, he said Eno had sustained the state’s development through his ARISE Agenda, particularly in the areas of peace, rural development, economic advancement and the welfare of residents.

“The progress of Akwa Ibom must always rise above partisan considerations. Every generation of leaders has a duty to add another storey to the edifice handed down to it,” he said.

Akpabio, a former governor of the state, also reflected on Akwa Ibom’s 39 years of existence, paying tribute to those who contributed to the creation and development of the state.

He said Akwa Ibom had grown from its beginnings into one of Nigeria’s significant states, attributing its progress largely to the industry, resilience and ingenuity of its people.

“Our greatest resource has always been our people,” he said.

The Senate President said the state’s anniversary should be accompanied by renewed determination to create opportunities for young people, promote enterprise and innovation, strengthen communities and preserve peace and unity.

He also called for stronger cooperation between Akwa Ibom and neighbouring Cross River State, citing their historical and cultural ties and the need for greater regional collaboration.

Meanwhile, Eno, in his anniversary broadcast, said the state’s best chapters were still ahead, while highlighting infrastructure, education, healthcare and other projects being implemented under his administration.

The Akwa Ibom government has scheduled the commissioning of 39 projects as part of activities marking the state’s 39th anniversary, with President Tinubu expected to commission some of the projects.