Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has reaffirmed the long standing relationship between Akwa Ibom and Cross River, saying both states will continue to live as brothers bound by history, peace and shared progress.
The governor spoke on Sunday during a special worship service at Liberty Gospel Church in Calabar, where he called on Akwa Ibom people living and working in Cross River to remain peaceful and contribute positively to the growth of their host state.
He said the bond between both states has remained firm over the years, despite the creation of Akwa Ibom from the old Cross River State.
Governor Eno said the people of the two states must continue to value unity, oneness and peaceful coexistence, describing those ideals as vital to their collective future.
He also urged Akwa Ibom indigenes resident in Cross River to continue praying for the peace and development of the state, noting that their wellbeing is closely tied to the wellbeing of the community where they live.
Drawing from biblical teaching, the governor said Cross River should be seen by Akwa Ibom residents there as their own Jerusalem, a place whose peace and prosperity they must genuinely seek. He encouraged them to live with love, harmony and brotherliness for the benefit of both states.
Governor Eno also paid tribute to Apostle Helen Ukpabio, praising her for her dedication to God and service to humanity. He described her as a committed servant of God whose ministry reflects consistency, compassion and integrity.
He urged her to remain focused on her calling, saying criticism should not distract people who are pursuing a vision they believe God has given them. According to him, disagreement often comes with meaningful work and should not be mistaken for failure.
In her sermon, titled Commanding the Blessing, and drawn from Psalm 133:3, Apostle Ukpabio said blessings are greater than curses and are often revealed through God’s declarations of multiplication and dominion in the lives of believers.
She encouraged Christians to maintain both personal and environmental cleanliness, saying such discipline helps prepare people to receive divine blessings in their lives and work.
The cleric also described Governor Eno as a compassionate leader whose administration has shown commitment to policies and programmes that directly affect the people. She thanked him for worshipping with the congregation and prayed for strength, wisdom and grace for him as he leads the state.
Among those in the governor’s entourage were the Dean of the College of Commissioners and Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Frank Archibong, former Senator Effiong Bob, President General of the ARISE with Renewed Hope Initiative, Engr. Uwem Okoko, Commissioner for Information, Aniekan Umanah, and Commissioner for Works and Fire Service, Eno Ibanga.
