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Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has provided clarity on the appointment of his eldest daughter, Mrs. Helen Obareki, as Senior Special Assistant (SSA) and Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady.

He stated that the appointment was made to continue the impactful programs initiated by the late First Lady, Her Excellency Pastor (Mrs.) Patience Eno.

The governor emphasized that First Ladies are not appointed by political means, and after the passing of the state’s First Lady, it was fitting for Mrs. Obareki, who closely worked with her mother, to take over the coordination of the office’s programs.

Governor Eno further stressed that the appointment was driven by Mrs. Obareki’s experience and dedication, not political motivation. The goal, he reiterated, is to preserve and continue the late First Lady’s legacy.

“First Ladies are not appointed—they come with the Governor. Our daughter, Mrs. Helen Obareki, has been appointed as Senior Special Assistant to the Governor and Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady. She worked closely with her mother from the beginning, and it is only fitting that she continues to oversee the important programs of the Office,” Governor Eno stated.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to prioritizing the late First Lady’s flagship project, Golden Initiative For All (GIFA), along with other support initiatives for women, the elderly, the vulnerable, and the less privileged. He noted that Mrs. Obareki’s unique qualifications and close relationship with the late First Lady made her the ideal candidate to sustain these programs.

“This is not a political appointment, it is a natural one. I pray for her to have the wisdom and support needed to continue these important initiatives and bring even more innovation to the Office,” the Governor added.

Governor Eno further explained that the appointment was made to ensure the continuity of the Office’s responsibilities, noting that Mrs. Obareki’s proximity to him allows for efficient communication and coordination of the programs. He drew a parallel to biblical times, saying, “Even when Jesus died, Peter said, ‘Choose from among those that were with Him.’ The Office of the First Lady has important responsibilities, and as long as I am Governor, these programs will not die.”

He concluded by expressing his hope that the public would support Mrs. Obareki in her new role as she continues to carry forward her late mother’s vision for the state.