By Solomon OKPO | The Evangelist News Desk
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has taken a swipe at former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, while praising Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for his vision, ingenuity and commitment to infrastructural development.
Tinubu, who spoke on Friday during his visit to the ARISE Palm Resort in Akwa Ibom State, questioned Obi’s presidential ambition, declaring that his intellectual capacity could not be compared with that of Governor Eno, whom he described as a thinker, doer and visionary leader.
The President made the remarks while commending Governor Eno for transforming an erosion-affected area into a tourism destination reportedly developed on 73 acres of land. He described the resort as an impressive demonstration of what visionary leadership, determination and purposeful governance could achieve when leaders are committed to developing their communities.
According to Tinubu, the Akwa Ibom governor had demonstrated courage and the ability to unite people behind a common development agenda. He further identified Eno with the City Boy Movement, citing his relationship with Lagos and his capacity to turn developmental challenges into opportunities.
“Umo Eno, you are a thinker and a doer. This is what is possible when a man of great vision is supported, and being the unifier, you have no problem uniting the people behind you. All of us will continue to be behind you and celebrate you. I salute your courage,” the President said.
Taking a political swipe at Obi, Tinubu asked: “Will you compare the brain of this man (Eno) to that of Obi? He ran away from erosion in Anambra, and he now wants to be president? President of where?”
Beyond the political exchange, Tinubu described his visit to the resort as an opportunity to appreciate the development initiative and enjoy its facilities. He also used the occasion to solicit support for his re-election bid in the January 16, 2027 presidential election.
The President’s remarks placed Governor Eno’s ARISE development agenda and the emerging tourism profile of Akwa Ibom State at the centre of his visit, highlighting the administration’s efforts to reposition the state as an investment, hospitality and tourism destination.
