President Bola Tinubu has been conferred with Akwa Ibom State’s highest traditional title, Otuekong (Commander-in-Chief of Akwa Ibom), by the State Council of Traditional Rulers.
The conferment ceremony took place on Friday at the State House, Abuja, and was led by the President General of the council, Nteyin Solomon Etuk, Okuibom Ibibio III.
The event saw a delegation of 104 members, including Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and his wife, Ekaette, former ministers and lawmakers, religious leaders, and representatives of women and youth groups.
Expressing his gratitude, President Tinubu reflected on his past connection to Akwa Ibom, recalling his time in Eket as an auditor for Mobil.
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He emphasised the need for political leaders to prioritize national development over party loyalty.
“I accept all the honours and the conferment. I am one of you. The country’s full potential can be better realized when political leaders look beyond party loyalty in serving the nation.”
He praised Akwa Ibom’s consistent developmental strides, attributing them to a shared vision and commitment to progress.
“I have just signed the 2025 budget. I am happy that the uncertainty over the economy is fading, and hope is rising,” Tinubu said, urging continued collaboration between the federal and state governments.
Commending Governor Umo Eno, President Tinubu lauded his leadership, selflessness, and commitment to the people, urging other leaders to emulate his approach.
He acknowledged Eno’s concerns regarding the Ibom Deep Sea Port and assured him of federal government attention.
Senate President Akpabio reinforced the call for unity in Akwa Ibom, noting that the state’s political leadership would work towards reconciliation and collaboration.
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Governor Eno, in his remarks, presented his administration’s achievements and reaffirmed the state’s readiness to partner with the federal government, particularly in infrastructure development and ecological interventions.
He also expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and First Lady Sen. Oluremi Tinubu for their support following his wife’s passing.
