Eno Appoints Daughter As Acting First Lady, Remi Tinubu Supports Akwa Ibom Governor

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has appointed his daughter, Mrs. Helen Eno Obareki, as the Acting First Lady following the death of his wife, Pastor Patience Umo Eno. This decision has received strong backing from Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who hailed the move as a way to honor the late Pastor Patience’s legacy.

Senator Tinubu personally visited the Eno family in Uyo to offer her condolences and show her support for Helen in her new role. She likened the appointment to similar practices abroad, emphasizing that it would help sustain Pastor Patience’s charitable efforts, especially through her well-known Golden Initiative For All (GIFA).

Senator Tinubu, accompanied by Hajia Nana Shettima, the wife of the Vice President, as well as several wives of state governors and National Assembly leaders, expressed her confidence in Helen Eno Obareki’s ability to continue her mother’s important work.

Reflecting on his late wife, Governor Eno shared memories of their life together, recalling how they married when she was 19 and he was 22. He described her as a true gift from God, his greatest supporter, and also his most constructive critic. “Her passing is an irreplaceable loss for me,” the governor said.

Addressing his daughter’s new role, Governor Eno stressed the significance of maintaining the First Lady’s office and continuing the projects his wife had championed. He officially introduced Helen as the Acting First Lady, noting that she would work closely with the Deputy Governor and the Commissioner for Women’s Affairs and Social Welfare to ensure the continuation of her mother’s initiatives.

Senator Tinubu praised Pastor Patience Eno’s contributions to her husband’s ARISE governance initiative and encouraged Helen to take on her mother’s duties with strength and commitment. “Your mom didn’t bring you to me for nothing,” Tinubu said, reassuring Helen of her belief in her capabilities. She also promised continued support for the Eno family during this transition.

Senator Tinubu concluded by expressing her gratitude for the opportunity to show love and care in such moments, affirming her commitment to stand by the Eno family as they navigate this challenging time.