Henshaw NYONG
I remember a fun debate between my friends Aniekeme Finbarr and Iniobong Monday on AKBC radio’s Sports Arena. How time flies; it’s been a decade now. They were analyzing the upcoming Manchester United vs Arsenal match, and Finbarr, a die-hard Manchester United fan, and Iniobong, an unapologetic Arsenal supporter, were going head-to-head in a friendly banter. That’s when Finbarr dropped this Ibibio proverb: ” unen adogho ekikọ esidiọñọ ke usiere,” meaning ” a cock is always known in the morning by its crowing.”
Finbarr may have forgotten this proverb, but as an Ibibio teacher, it has remained close to my heart for decades. This proverb perfectly describes the compassionate leadership of His Excellency, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, and his strong connection with the people.
Early this morning when I sat down to write this article, the sound of a cock crowing outside my window was more than just a coincidence – it was a poignant reminder of ‘ _Unen Adogho Ekikọ_’ proverb. And what has Governor Umo Eno done to embody the spirit of this proverb? Quite simply, he has consistently demonstrated compassion through his actions and words, much like the cock’s distinctive crowing announces its presence. This leadership quality has made a profound impact, and I’m excited to share more about it in this article.
In case you decide to take a trip down memory lane with me, one thing stands out about the Ikot Ekpene Udo born Cleric: his remarkable commitment to uplifting the vulnerable and downtrodden as well as dedication to their welfare and I feel privileged to have witnessed it firsthand.
During the electioneering, some might have thought that Pastor Umo Eno’s frequent stops to interact with street traders, offering them financial support to expand their businesses, were just a political gimmick. But 11 months after his swearing-in, the people can attest that he was indeed showing his true colours – a ‘cock that is known in the morning by its crowing.’ The Clergyman’s gestures not only demonstrated his compassion for those in need but also hinted at a larger vision for the welfare of Akwa Ibom people. His actions have spoken louder than words, and we’re seeing the positive impact in Akwa Ibom.
On his inauguration day, May 29, 2023, Governor Umo Eno, flanked by his wife, Mrs. Patience Umo Eno, stood before a crowd of over 30,000 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium and reaffirmed his dedication to supporting the most vulnerable, echoing, “For those of you who may be struggling to put food on the table, if I overcame, you too can.” And true to his word, Governor Eno has proven his commitment to the people of Akwa Ibom, who entrusted him with their mandate on March 18, 2023, especially the class of people who are finding it hard to put food on their table. One of his outstanding programmes for this set is the ongoing project to build 400 units of ARISE Compassionate Homes (2 bedroom bungalows) for the homeless and neediest across all 31 Local Government Areas by 2027.
This initiative, specifically for the poorest sons and daughters of the State with the most uninhabitable homes, is a dream come true for these individuals who have struggled to find a place to call their home. As the Bible states, shelter is a basic necessity of human life, alongside food and clothing. So, by providing decent abodes, complete with state-of-the-art facilities like solar-powered lighting and boreholes, our Pastor-Governor is not only meeting a basic human need for the poorest of the poor among us, but also dramatically enhancing their overall well-being. Just imagine a frail, elderly widow jumping up and down in the comfort and security of her home – a place where she can finally feel at peace. People have already concluded that ‘The ARISE Compassionate Homes’ are truly a powerful medicine for a longer and healthier life for our people.
Away from that now. One potential source of anxiety for people is the selection process, which can be tainted by favouritism and cronyism, a phenomenon all too familiar in our country. However, Governor Umo Eno has wisely avoided this issue by appointing a trustworthy and dedicated aide, Elder NsikanAbasi Umoekpo, to oversee the process. As the Governor’s aide on Humanitarian Services, Umoekpo and his team have personally visited all 31 Local Government Areas to identify the most dilapidated homes and poorest individuals, paying rapt attention to details without bias or political interference. I think kudos must also be given to this trusted servant for his integrity and commitment to his duties, refusing to politicize the selection process and the quality of the ARISE compassionate homes under his supervision.
As we speak, the impact of the Governor’s compassion is already being felt across the State. Recently, a heartwarming video surfaced online showing Mrs. Comfort Johnson, a beneficiary from Ikot Ekpeyak Ikono in Uyo LGA, overcome with emotion has she beheld her newly completed home. The aged was so overjoyed that she felt like flying like a butterfly! This is just one of many similar reactions from beneficiaries across the state, and we can only imagine delightful responses that will follow when the keys to the ARISE compassionate homes are handed over to these indigent individuals, on May 25, during the inauguration of the first phase.
therefore, as the people of Akwa Ibom prepares to celebrate the Golden Era’s first anniversary , let us not forget that Governor Umo Eno’s compassionate spirit, which ensures that the improvised, destitute and vulnerable among us also enjoy a better life, is a hallmark of leadership. Just like the proverbial cock that crows every morning, Governor Eno has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the well-being of all. Just as the cock crowing is a daily occurrence, we can expect Governor Umo Eno’s compassion and dedication to continue, as what we have seen so far is just the tip of the iceberg,.
