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President Bola Tinubu on Saturday officially welcomed Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom into the All Progressives Congress (APC) and pledged increased support for his government.
During a grand reception honoring Eno in Uyo, Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, assured the people of Akwa Ibom that the APC would provide essential support to help the governor deliver the benefits of democracy to the citizens.
He stated, “In APC, we construct bridges, not walls. We mend relationships, not destroy them. Our president is a bridge builder; your choice to join the APC is a decision you will not regret. Rest assured you will not face humiliation or abandonment; we are your family and will rise together.
We stood by Godswill Akpabio amid challenges because of our party, and we will stand by you as well; together we will succeed.” Senate President Godswill Akpabio remarked that the reception for Eno symbolized the reconnection of the South-South states with the central government.
He emphasized that Eno's shift to the APC was not merely a change of parties, but a step toward joining a progressive coalition that would yield greater benefits for the state.
“I foresee positive changes for Akwa Ibom; you are a person of integrity, and no one can undermine you,” said Akpabio.
Earlier, Eno explained that his transition to the APC aimed to align with the national government and support Tinubu’s economic reforms, citing the Ibom Deep Seaport project as a significant factor in his decision.
He urged the president to assist in advancing the project, expressing confidence that with the APC, they would succeed in realizing it.
“The people of Akwa Ibom look to the president with hope, believing that this transition will bring prosperity to us,” Eno said.
While presenting the APC flag to Eno, national chairman Abdullahi Ganduje praised the governor for his wisdom and foresight and encouraged him to stay committed to implementing programs that benefit the people.
Eno, who was elected governor under the Peoples Democratic Party, announced his defection to the ruling APC on June 6.
