Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has thrown his weight behind President Bola Tinubu, asserting that the President inherited a nation grappling with significant economic and security challenges and should not be blamed for issues that predate his administration.
Speaking to State House reporters after a private meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday, Governor Eno contended that President Tinubu deserves support rather than criticism for the substantial reforms initiated since he assumed office two years ago. Eno’s remarks come at a time of escalating public dissatisfaction over inflation, the removal of subsidies, the devaluation of the naira, and persistent security concerns � issues that many critics are quick to attribute to the current administration.
However, the Akwa Ibom governor emphasized that these systemic challenges existed long before President Tinubu took the helm, necessitating a unified approach for their resolution. Characterizing Tinubu�s initial two years as �remarkable,� Eno urged Nigerians to evaluate the administration within its proper context, highlighting that transformative leadership often demands unpopular short-term choices to achieve long-term benefits.
“President Tinubu didn’t create the problem we are in right now,” the governor stated. “And for me, I believe he is doing his best and should be supported to see it through.”
During his own two-year tenure in Akwa Ibom, Governor Eno highlighted accomplishments in key sectors such as education, healthcare, rural infrastructure, and market development, affirming his administration’s focus on grassroots improvement.
“When you come to Akwa Ibom, you�ll find that we are working. From schools to hospitals, to roads and markets�we are on ground,” he said.
Looking ahead, the governor promised a strategic shift towards “super infrastructural development” and positioned Akwa Ibom as an emerging tourist destination. “Our next focus is on major infrastructure. We want to make Akwa Ibom a tourist hub, and we are on our way,” he stated.
On youth development, Eno outlined his administration’s prioritization of job creation and entrepreneurship support as a means to rebuild the middle class. “We are investing in our youth. Through training, skill acquisition, and support for small and medium enterprises, we are building a system where young people can thrive,” he explained.
He also commended the consistent leadership development within the state, describing Akwa Ibom as fortunate to have benefited from a succession of visionary governors, including Obong Victor Attah, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and Udom Emmanuel. “It�s a foundation. You come in, you build. And I think the state is doing well compared to others,” he added.
The governor’s remarks reinforce a growing sentiment among some political leaders that President Tinubu should be afforded more time to stabilize the country, particularly as his administration approaches its second anniversary with a series of policy milestones and infrastructure rollouts.
