Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has officially named his daughter, Mrs. Helen Eno Obareki, as the Acting First Lady of the state, following the passing of his wife, Pastor Patience Umo Eno. The announcement was made during a condolence visit by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who expressed her full support for the governor’s decision.
Senator Tinubu, accompanied by Hajia Nana Shettima, wife of the Vice President, and several wives of state governors, visited the Eno family in Uyo to offer their condolences. During the visit, Senator Tinubu highlighted that the decision to appoint Helen as Acting First Lady was thoughtful and in line with practices seen internationally. She noted that it was a way to honor and sustain Pastor Patience Eno’s legacy, particularly through her well-known project, the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA).
Governor Eno, speaking about his late wife, reflected on the deep bond they shared. “I married her when she was 19, and I was 22,” he said. “She was a gift from God, my greatest supporter and critic, and her passing is a loss that can never be replaced.” The governor further emphasized that his wife had been instrumental in various social projects and initiatives that benefited the people of Akwa Ibom. He stressed the need to continue these efforts through the Office of the First Lady.
In introducing his daughter to the role, Governor Eno acknowledged the challenges ahead. “It is not an easy task,” he said, but assured that Mrs. Helen Eno Obareki would work closely with key government officials, such as the Deputy Governor and the Commissioner for Women’s Affairs and Social Welfare, to continue her mother’s work. He expressed his confidence that his daughter would uphold the values and mission her late mother stood for.
In her address to Helen, Senator Oluremi Tinubu offered words of encouragement. “Helen, your mom didn’t bring you to me for nothing, and it’s a blessing that your mom’s colleagues and the Vice President’s wife are here to support you.” She expressed belief that Helen would continue her mother’s legacy and achieve even greater things.
During a separate condolence visit from Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Governor Eno also took the opportunity to dismiss rumors about him remarrying, humorously stating that he had no plans to take a second wife. “I’m not considering remarrying anytime soon,” he joked, “and I don’t have the money for another bride price.”
