Umo Eno, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State has appointed his daughter, Mrs. Helen Eno Obareki, as the acting first Lady of the state following the death of his wife, Pastor Patience Umo Eno, News About Nigeria reports.
The Governor made the announcement during a condolence visit by the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and other dignitaries in Uyo on Friday.
In an emotional tribute during the visit, the governor described his deceased wife as his “greatest supporter and toughest critic.”
Recalling their bond during her lifetime, the Governor disclosed that he married her when he was 22 and she was 19 years old.
He further explained that appointing his daughter as First Lady is to ensure the continuity of the office and the projects initiated by his late wife, particularly the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA).
He said, “I married her when she was 19, and I was 22. I called her Oluwa-Kemi because she was truly a gift from God. We went through many challenges together, and her passing is an irreplaceable loss for me. 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 said that he is not considering remarrying anytime soon, and also expressed his confidence in his daughter’s ability to uphold the values and vision of her late mother.
On her part, the First Lady of Nigeria praised Governor Eno’s decision, calling it a thoughtful way to preserve the late Pastor Eno’s legacy.
She also stated that the appointment is not new as it is being practiced in other parts of the world, such as the United States.
While encouraging the new Akwa Ibom State First Lady, Tinubu said, “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. I know you well, and I believe God will guide you. You will accomplish even more than your mother, and He will grant you good health.”
