Ramadan Iftar: Governor Eno Applauds Muslims’ Role In Akwa Ibom’s Unity, Growth
Eno Hosts Muslim Leaders at Ramadan Iftar
GOVERNOR Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has commended the Muslim community in the state for fostering peaceful coexistence and contributing to the state’s socio-economic development.
The governor made the remarks during a special Ramadan Iftar dinner hosted for leaders and stakeholders of the Muslim community at the Government House in Uyo over the weekend. The gathering brought together religious leaders, community representatives and senior government officials in an atmosphere of interfaith solidarity.
Governor Eno described the holy month of Ramadan as a period that encourages reflection, compassion and unity, stressing that the values of tolerance and peaceful living embodied by the Muslim faithful have significantly strengthened social harmony in the state.
Unity as Foundation for Development
Addressing the gathering, the governor noted that Akwa Ibom’s growth and stability are partly attributable to the ability of diverse groups to live together peacefully. According to him, the presence and participation of residents from different ethnic and religious backgrounds are essential to the development of any society.
He emphasised that no community can achieve meaningful progress without contributions from both indigenes and non-indigenes who reside and work within it.
Governor Eno particularly praised members of the Muslim community who have lived in the state for decades, describing their continued presence as evidence of the welcoming environment and stability that Akwa Ibom offers.
He said many of them have spent over two decades in the state, building businesses, raising families and contributing to economic activities, which he said underscores their attachment to the state and the opportunities it provides.
According to him, communities that lack diversity often struggle to achieve the kind of social and economic vibrancy that multicultural societies enjoy.
Acknowledging Political Support
The governor also used the occasion to express appreciation to the Muslim community for supporting his governorship bid during the 2023 elections. He recalled that many members of the community actively participated in mobilising support that contributed to his victory.
He assured them that his administration would continue to maintain a cordial relationship with the community and support programmes and activities that promote unity and development.
Governor Eno further encouraged members of the Muslim community to actively participate in government initiatives and civic engagements, stressing that his administration remains inclusive and open to all residents of the state.
Muslim Leaders Commend Governor
Earlier, leaders of the Muslim community expressed appreciation to the governor for sustaining a long-standing relationship with them.
Speaking on behalf of the community, the Chairman of the League of Imams in Akwa Ibom State, Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq, and the Chairman of the State Council for Islamic Affairs, Barrister Ibrahim Mohammed, commended the governor for his consistent support and engagement with the Muslim faithful.
They noted that Governor Eno had been hosting the Muslim community for Ramadan Iftar gatherings long before he assumed office as governor, describing the gesture as a reflection of his personal commitment to religious tolerance and unity.
Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Non-Indigenes’ Affairs, Emmanuel Ogbole, and the Special Assistant on Arewa Community, Alhaji Ibrahim Iliya, thanked the state government for fostering a peaceful environment where people from diverse ethnic backgrounds can live and work together without fear.
Peaceful Environment Highlighted
The leaders emphasised that Muslims in the state come from different parts of Nigeria but have continued to live harmoniously in Akwa Ibom due to the prevailing peace and security.
They observed that while several states in the country have faced security challenges in recent years, Akwa Ibom has remained largely peaceful, a situation they attributed to effective leadership and the hospitality of the local population.
The Muslim leaders also prayed for the continued success of the governor’s administration and for sustained peace and prosperity in the state.
Dignitaries at the Event
The Ramadan Iftar gathering was attended by several senior government officials, including the Coordinator of the Office of the State First Lady, Lady Helen Obareki; Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong; Head of the State Civil Service, Mrs. Elsie Peters; Executive Assistant and Chief Delivery Advisor to the Governor, Mr. Aniefiok Johnson; and the Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah, among other top government functionaries.
The event served as another demonstration of the state government’s commitment to strengthening interfaith dialogue and promoting unity among the diverse communities that make up Akwa Ibom State.
