Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has said he will continue to lead the people of Akwa Ibom State with the fear of God, and with a deeper commitment to the ideals of Christ-centric leadership.
Governor Eno who spoke at the celebration of the 55th anniversary of Archbishop Isaiah Isong in God’s vineyard, held at The Believers Assembly Nigeria, Uyo, also
described him as a man with exceptional passion and devotion to preaching the word of God and instilling moral codes across generations for responsible and better society.
“We will continue to serve our State with all of our hearts. We will continue to provide good governance, which you have craved for. We are happy that all your efforts were not in vain, and that today, we are running a people-oriented government for the good of our State.
“We promise to continue to lead a Christ-centric administration where the poor and the vulnerable alongside other segments of the society will be given deep consideration at the table of policy formations,” he said.
The Governor acknowledged that for 55 years, Isong has sown and watered the seed in the Lord’s vineyard which, according to him, has grown exponentially.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Akwa Ibom State, I join your family, the body of Christ in Akwa Ibom State, and all other well wishers to celebrate you on the occasion marking your 55th anniversary of continuous service to God and humanity.”
“Because of your passionate devotion to preaching the word of God and instilling the moral codes across generations, many have found salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ while redemption has been assured and destiny fulfilled.”
Pastor Eno commended the celebrator for being a staunch supporter of his administration’s determined efforts to galvanize the people to arise to embrace the light and transformation that has come to the State.
“You have rallied the church and indeed the body of Christ to speak with one voice in their support for what we are doing through the ARISE Agenda for the people of our dear State.
“I thank you most profoundly for those many night of meetings, prayers, and sacrifices to ensure that we succeed because of your conviction and believe in us, thank you.”
The Governor assured the celebrator and the people of his unflinching commitment to serving the people right and faithfully.
Pastor Eno appreciated the people for their continued support while reiterating that his administration is poised to serve the people to prove that government can be a reliable vehicle for meaningful growth and progress.
“Each time we embark on some of these government projects that directly touch the life of our people, we think of what you and other great individuals have charged us to make sure that the poor should not be forgotten in our scheme of things.
“We therefore, always see ourselves as that answer to good governance in Akwa Ibom State; we see ourselves as the continuous builder on the foundation that our predecessors have laid.”
He urged the people to always pray for those in leadership positions and be constructive in criticism of government policies and programmes, stressing that the task to sustain the peace in the State lies on the citizens.
“Let us keep our State in peace. We are the envy of other States in this country. Let us not allow people to come here to scatter our State because when they finish, they will go back to their own States. This is the only State we have, and we must protect it,” he said.
The Governor wished Apostle Isong robust health, sound mind, and wisdom and charged youths in the State to see leadership as a product of the concerted efforts of all in the State.
In his remarks, Prelate Isaiah Isong thanked God for the grace to serve Him, and for sustainance throughout the 55 years.
He described the 55 years as 55 years of tough and rough Ministry apprenticeship; and 55 years of falling and failing but never abandoned by the merciful God.
The Cleric expressed gratitude to the Governor for gracing the occasion and being an exceptional leader for the good of the people.
Preaching on the topic: “Mind your Business,” drawn from Philippians 2:12-16), Apostle Lawrence Achudume eulogized Prelate Isong for celebrating, not just 55 years of the existence of his ministry, but results and productivity in spite of distractions and rumours which would have torn apart the vision prematurely.
He admonished Christians to emulate his leadership style by always identifying their visions and dreams, and pursuing them to appropriate fulfilment.
Apostle Achudume charged Christians to arm themselves with wisdom, and be focused, committed, consistent, and passionate to their visions and dreams in order to experience impactful achievement and fulfillment.
The event witnessed the presence of members of the State Executive Council, the clergy, the political class, other well wishers, and christians within and outside the State.
