The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno, has 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.
This decision has been met with praise from Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who lauded the move as a way to honour the late Pastor Patience’s legacy.
Senator Tinubu visited the Eno family in Uyo to offer her condolences and show support for Helen’s new role.
Drawing comparisons to similar practices abroad, she emphasized that this appointment is a thoughtful gesture to continue Pastor Patience Eno’s charitable efforts, particularly through her initiative, the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA).
Accompanied by Hajia Nana Shettima, the wife of the Vice President, and several wives of state governors and National Assembly leaders, Senator Tinubu expressed her confidence in Helen Eno Obareki’s ability to carry on her late mother’s work.
Governor Umo Eno, reflecting on his late wife’s life, shared their journey together, recalling how they married when she was 19, and he was 22.
“I married her when she was 19, and I was 22. I called her Oluwa-Kemi because she was truly a gift from God, a source of comfort and succor.
“We went through many challenges together, and we shared in both victories and losses. Her passing is an irreplaceable loss for me. She was my embodiment of the biblical virtuous woman, my greatest supporter, and also my toughest critic. Her absence will be felt for the rest of my life,” he said.
With regard to his daughter’s new role, the governor emphasized the importance of maintaining the First Lady’s office and continuing the projects his late wife started.
On the transition of the First Lady’s duties, Governor Eno introduced his daughter, Mrs. Helen Eno Obareki, stating, “It is not an easy task ahead. But 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.”
In her remarks, Senator Tinubu recognized Pastor Patience Eno’s contributions to her national pet project and her commitment to her husband’s ARISE governance initiative.
Senator Tinubu, speaking directly to Helen, encouraged her to continue her mother’s work with determination and grace.
“Politics aside, we are all Nigerians, and one of the things I thank God for is the opportunity to show love and care when we meet people. I want to thank God for Patience’s life, though short, she completed her race. May God comfort you, your family, and your children. I will always be here for you,” she assured the governor.
Turning to Helen, Senator 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. 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.”