Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has appointed his daughter, Helen Eno-Obareki, as the acting First Lady of the state following the passing of his wife, Pastor Patience Eno, last week.
Governor Eno made this announcement on Friday during a condolence visit by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and other dignitaries in Uyo.
He explained that his daughter would assume the responsibilities of the First Lady, ensuring the continuity of the office and the projects initiated by his late wife, particularly the Golden Initiative For All.
“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,” Governor Eno said.
The governor described his late wife as his “greatest supporter and toughest critic,” fondly recalling their lifelong bond. “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,” he said.
Mrs. Tinubu praised the governor’s decision, expressing confidence in Helen Eno-Obareki’s ability to excel in her new role. She called it a thoughtful way to preserve the late Pastor Patience Eno’s legacy.
Offering words of encouragement to the new First Lady, Mrs. 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.”
Governor Eno also addressed rumors about him taking a second wife, humorously dismissing the idea during a separate visit by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. “I’m not considering remarrying anytime soon. I don’t have the money to pay another bride price,” he joked.
