President Tinubu honoured with Akwa Ibom’s highest traditional title

…calls for unity across party lines

By Kunle Sanni

President Bola Tinubu has been conferred with Akwa Ibom State’s highest traditional title, “Otuekong” (Commander-in-Chief of Akwa Ibom State), by the Akwa Ibom State Council of Traditional Rulers.

The honour was bestowed on Friday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, by Nteyin Solomon Etuk, Oku Ibom Ibibio III, who led a delegation of 104 prominent Akwa Ibom stakeholders.

The delegation, led by Governor Umo Eno, included Senate President Godswill Akpabio and his wife, Ekaette Akpabio, as well as former ministers, lawmakers, religious leaders, and representatives of women and youth groups.

Accepting the honour, President Tinubu reminisced about his early career in Akwa Ibom, recalling his time in Eket as an auditor for Mobil. He reaffirmed his deep ties to the state and emphasized the need for cross-party collaboration in governance.

“I accept this honour with gratitude. I am one of you. I recall staying in Eket as an auditor for Mobil, and I have always seen Akwa Ibom as home,” he said.

Tinubu urged political leaders to prioritize national interests over party differences, stating that Nigeria’s full potential could only be realized through unity and collective vision.

“I am happy that the uncertainty over the economy is fading and that hope is rising. We must work together to build the nation. Everyone here represents a good society, and together, we will make it even better,” he added.

The President commended Governor Eno’s inclusive leadership and commitment to development, describing him as a leader with the fear of God and a deep love for his people.

“You have a very good governor. I have been following developments in Akwa Ibom, including the Arise Programme, and I must commend his efforts in transforming the state,” Tinubu said.

During the visit, Governor Umo Eno presented a report on his administration’s achievements and appealed for federal government support in developing the Ibom Deep Seaport and addressing ecological challenges, particularly gully erosion.

“We are ready to work closely with the federal government, especially in areas like infrastructure and ecological intervention. The Ibom Deep Seaport is a critical project, and we need federal support to bring it to life,” the governor said.

He also expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu for their support following his wife’s passing.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio praised Governor Eno for fostering unity in Akwa Ibom, noting that political reconciliation efforts were ongoing among the state’s leaders.

“The entire political leadership of Akwa Ibom is committed to reconciliation. We stand firmly behind the President and will support him in moving the nation forward,” Akpabio assured.