Etiebet: Akpabio–Eno Alliance Has Stabilised Akwa Ibom, Strengthened APC

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

Former Minister of Petroleum and prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akwa Ibom State, Atuekong Don Etiebet, has described the working relationship between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Governor Umo Eno as unprecedented.

He said the development had brought stability, unity and renewed political cohesion to the state.Etiebet made the assertion in a personally signed congratulatory message to mark Akpabio’s 63rd birthday.The former minister, according to a statement written from the congratulatory message by the Media Office of the Senate President, and made available to THISDAY in Abuja yesterday, explained that the synergy between the Senate President and the governor since Eno’s defection to the APC in June last year had transformed the political landscape of Akwa Ibom.He said the collaboration between the two leaders was legendary, stressing that it had fostered peace and cooperation in a manner never previously witnessed in the state.

According to Etiebet, Akpabio’s commitment to a just, equitable and prosperous Nigeria, coupled with his decision to work closely with Governor Eno on the platform of the APC, had yielded far-reaching benefits for Akwa Ibom and the country at large.He said, “Your zeal and dedication towards a just, equitable and prosperous Nigeria, as well as joining hands with our excellent Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, to bring about a stable, united and peaceful Akwa Ibom State on the platform of the APC, are profound.“This synergy has never been seen in the state before,” Etiebet said.

He added that Akpabio’s leadership qualities and political experience had continued to inspire confidence within the party and beyond, making his tenure as President of the Senate impactful and consequential.

Etiebet praised the Senate President’s legislative achievements, describing his stewardship of the National Assembly as marked by robust initiatives and effective lawmaking that had strengthened democratic governance in Nigeria.

He said, “We celebrate your steadfastness, uncommon leadership and selfless service to humanity.

“You have brought remarkable initiatives, robust and effective legislative performance as the President of the Nigeria Senate, which has significantly advanced the way Nigeria works towards a great and enduring democracy on the African continent,” he said.

The former minister also commended Akpabio’s personal attributes, referring to him as an enigma whose contributions to national development would leave lasting footprints.

He prayed for God’s continued guidance, wisdom and good health for the Senate President, urging him to sustain his commitment to national service.

“As you attain this new age, may the Almighty God continue to uplift, uphold and strengthen you for the task ahead, and grant you abundance of good health to continue your uncommon service to our dear country,” Etiebet added.

Akpabio, a former governor of Akwa Ibom State, recently clocked 63, with political leaders, associates and supporters across the country paying glowing tributes to his leadership and influence in national politics.