Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has appointed his daughter, Mrs. Helen Eno Obareki, as the Acting First Lady following the passing of his wife, Pastor Patience Umo Eno. The announcement came during a condolence visit to Uyo by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and other dignitaries on Friday.
In an emotional tribute, Governor Eno described his late wife as his “greatest supporter and toughest critic,” recounting their long journey together. “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 faced many challenges together, and her loss is beyond words,” he said.
He then introduced his daughter, Helen, to assume the duties of the First Lady and ensure the continuation of the projects started by her late mother, particularly the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA). “To maintain the Office of the First Lady and continue my wife’s work, I present our daughter, Helen. She will collaborate closely with the Deputy Governor and the Commissioner for Women’s Affairs and Social Welfare,” Governor Eno announced.
Governor Eno expressed his confidence in Helen’s ability to uphold her mother’s vision and sustain the office’s initiatives. He affirmed his commitment to preserving the projects set in motion by Pastor Patience Eno.
First Lady Senator Tinubu praised the governor’s decision, calling it a thoughtful way to honor Pastor Patience Eno’s legacy. She compared the appointment to similar practices in other parts of the world and voiced her belief in Helen’s ability to thrive in the role. “Your mother didn’t bring you to me for nothing,” Senator Tinubu remarked, offering encouragement. “I believe God will guide you to do even more than your mother, and He will grant you good health.”
Governor Eno also addressed rumors about him remarrying during a separate visit by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. With humor, he dismissed the notion, saying, “I’m not considering remarrying anytime soon. I don’t have the money to pay another bride price.”
He emphasized that his late wife’s absence is irreplaceable and that his focus remains on sustaining her legacy through the First Lady’s office, now led by his daughter. Governor Eno assured the people of Akwa Ibom that the initiatives launched by Pastor Patience Eno would continue under Helen’s leadership, preserving her mother’s vision.
