Compassionate Gov. Umo Eno Returns to Bethel
By Aniekan Umanah
Sunday, May 11, 2025 will remain indelible for worshippers at The Apostolic Church, Maboju, a rustic, settlement tucked behind the Nigerian Air Base, Ikeja. That morning, the clay roads of Maboju in Shogunle, Lagos State bore witness to a procession of destiny, as convoys glided through narrow lanes and the old chapel stood dressed in reverence. The air was thick with expectation, the altar lit with prophecy fulfilled. Here was the womb that carried the prophecy!
At the heart of it all was the compassionate Governor of Akwa Ibom State, who returned not merely as a politician, but as a son coming home to Bethel. He was sandwiched by his children, family members and a constellation of Nigeria’s finest: dignitaries, ministers, lawmakers, captains of industry, and faith and traditional leaders. Their presence lent a mixed gleam to the day, but the spirit of the gathering was humbler as it was day of offering of thanks to God.
Governor Umo Eno as always cut a distinguished figure clad in a finely made blue designer suit that hugged his frame with effortless grace, a red silk tie knotted with understated flair over an immaculate white shirt. His pure leather shoes whispered refinement with every step, while his wrist bore the quiet dignity of traditional Swiss ornaments, merging timeless culture with contemporary elegance,
all singing to the God who whispered his destiny earlier through the prophecy that has been fulfilled.
The man of destiny recaounted how, as a young boy, a little girl in the church prayer band prophesied that he would one day return to his homeland to govern his people. The governor had returned to his do homeland to do business and at the fullness of time govern his people, yet he returned to where it all started for a thanksgiving, reliving a moment he once dismissed with disbelief and youthful aggravation after the death of his father, and with six siblings to cater for, in addition to the fact that he was newly married.
In his characteristic life of appreciation, It was a journey back to sacred roots, where the Governor found healing in the church’s revival meeting that his mother took him to. It was there he sang in the choir, prayed as a deacon, interpreted the Word, and even led the building committee. It was also there , in 1980, that a child’s voice, innocent yet anointed foretold his future as a governor.
Three decades and many battles later, he stood on that same altar, taller and
, fulfilled as the Governor of Akwa Ibom State in fulfillment of the prophecy which he said “God used my boss and immediate past Governor, Udom Emmanuel to fulfill “
. “The Spirit of the Lord laid heavily on my heart to return to Bethel,” he said, his voice carrying the weight of years and testimony. “When a child forgets the blessings of yesterday, he forfeits the blessings of tomorrow.” Three decades have passed,and as it was foretold, a five-star governor is here!
The Governor’s words pierced deeper than politics. as he struck a chord of unity, soft yet firm, clear as morning light.
“Akwa Ibom is more united today than I met it,” he said, his words laced with calm pride.
In his vision, parties are just vehicles, not destinations. What matters is not the colour of allegiance, but the heartbeat of the people.
“We govern beyond party lines for the unity and progress of our State “ he affirmed.
Speaking not from the pulpit of power but his heart, Governor Eno declared, “No political party can define who I am” asserting that identity, purpose, and leadership are crafted in the spirit, not by platforms. He spoke like a watchman who sees beyond the hills, urging the people to “understand the times and seasons,” as the sons of Issachar once did.
“When a driver is on the steering, he’s the one who sees the potholes, he’s the one who knows how to dodge them. As the driver now by the grace of God, I know where to avoid portholes and ditches until we get to our destination” he quipped.
And with scriptural solemnity, he echoed, “He who has ear, let him hear what the Spirit says.”
Preaching on the theme “Greatness in Humility,” Pastor Dr. Gabriel Uyeh, National Vice President of The Apostolic Church, praised Governor Eno’s simple and spiritual approach to leadership.
“Humility is the foundation of greatness. And your thanksgiving today proves that leadership is a divine call, not a political career,” he said.
In a gesture befitting the grace he received, the Governor led a wave of giving and donations that raised over ₦250 million for the church, clergy, and community. But more than the money, it was the poetry of the moment that lingered.The boy healed in a revival, now blessing a generation. He did not stop there. Pastor Eno read out a list of beneficiaries including families of departed clergymen in the and labourers in the vineyard.
Pastor Solomon Nkopeti, Apostle of the District, spoke of Eno’s service in Maboju with glowing clarity. “You walked and worked among us, not with power, but as a brother in Christ. Your Excellency, you served here with the humility of a brother in Christ. You are a faithful son of the Apostolic vision.”
The choir, once led by a young Umo, now sang for a Governor, yet in their voices, it was still the same faith.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the SSG, Barrister ‘Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, described the governor as a lagos boy saluted the moment: “Your thanksgiving reminds us that without God, we are nothing. Your leadership reflects your moral upbringing. Lagos is proud of your journey.”
Governor Eno, graceful and grounded, ended with a lesson etched in wisdom: “God will use whomever He pleases. Your helper may not be from your village, or even your faith. Be kind, for destiny listens.”
And so Maboju, dusty and small, became once more a stage for the miraculous. As the sun faded behind the chapel’s iron roof, time stood still bearing witness that grace, when remembered, becomes glory.
The celebration transitioned into a vibrant reception ceremony at Ike GRA , echoing with traditional melodies and heartfelt testimonies. Guests were treated to a beautiful convergence of Akwa Ibom and english delicacies , with music, and joy radiating from every corner.
There, amidst songs and speeches, Governor Umo Eno was honoured with several awards, including a prestigious international Africa LifeTime Achievement Prize for Good governance and public service received on his behalf by Deputy Governor Senator Akon Eyakenyi who had just returned from Kumasi, Ghana for the continental event hosted by the Asantehene, His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu. Other notable recognitions came from religi groups, legislative representatives, and civic organizations, all praising his humility, impactful governance, and unwavering faith.
A man of multiple honours, Governor Eno was equally presented the Award of Best Governor of the Year 2024 by Africa Women Summit at the London Political Summit and Awards where the coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Mrs Helen Eno-Obareki represented him.
The home coming thanksgiving had top government officials legislators, religious and traditional leaders, and other eminent Nigerian in attendance.
It was a fitting close to a day wrapped in grace where past met present, and a prophecy found its voice again at The Apostolic Church, Maboju Assembly.
