Senate President Godswill Akpabio has publicly endorsed Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State for a second term in 2027, marking a notable bipartisan gesture in the state’s political scene. Akpabio, a leading figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC), conveyed his support through his wife, Mrs. Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, during a Town Square meeting at the Ikot Ekpene Sports Stadium on Thursday.
This endorsement follows Governor Eno’s earlier pledge to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid, a move that may have helped solidify cross-party goodwill.
Commending the Governor for empowering constituents through business grants, Akpabio highlighted the need for continuity in Eno’s inclusive leadership.
“Let me welcome you to Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency and thank you for the impactful projects executed here,” he said. “I urge the people to unite beyond political, religious, and tribal lines. I reaffirm my commitment to supporting Governor Eno beyond 2027, regardless of party affiliation.”
Patrick Umoh, the APC lawmaker representing Ikot Ekpene-Obot Akara/Essien Udim Federal Constituency, lauded the meeting as a true representation of grassroots democracy. He praised Eno’s leadership and moved a motion for the governor’s re-election—a proposal the constituents unanimously supported.
In his address, Governor Eno announced N260 million in grants for 664 farmers, traders, and entrepreneurs. The breakdown includes:
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210 farmers – N105 million
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255 traders – N125 million
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6 SME beneficiaries – N5 million each
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184 equipment support beneficiaries
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9 recipients – various types of cars
He urged recipients to use the funds wisely, emphasizing that there would be no second chance for beneficiaries under this scheme.
Eno also promised that the submitted Needs Document from the constituency would be considered during the 2026 budget planning process.
“This document is vital to ensuring the 2026 budget reflects the people’s needs. Though not every request may be accommodated, we will implement as much as possible based on available funds,” he said.
Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, political leader of the Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency, praised Governor Eno’s pragmatic leadership, citing over 42 impactful projects executed within just 20 months.
Speaking for the three local government chairmen in the constituency, Hon. Nkom Nkom of Ikot Ekpene LGA reaffirmed their collective support for Governor Eno’s re-election, applauding his developmental strides across the region.