Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State on Thursday paid a visit to President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, marking one of his high-profile engagements since formally defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
During the closed-door meeting, Eno briefed the President on developments in Akwa Ibom and the general state of affairs, underscoring what he described as the importance of collaboration between the state and the Federal Government.
The visit comes weeks after the governor’s official defection from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress on June 6, 2025, at the Government House in Uyo.
Eno had attributed his decision to “three months of wide consultation” with political leaders, community stakeholders and supporters across the state.
Speaking at the time of his defection, the governor expressed gratitude to the PDP for its support throughout his political journey but said it was time to take what he called a “progressive move” in the interest of Akwa Ibom people.
“After completing the rounds of my consultation as your servant whom you have elected to serve, I have therefore decided to progressively move to the APC,” Eno said.
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He explained that his decision was driven by admiration and respect for President Tinubu, as well as the need to align Akwa Ibom more closely with the Federal Government to attract greater opportunities and sustained benefits.
The governor also pledged support for Senate President Godswill Akpabio, another prominent political figure from the state.
Eno reassured residents that his defection would not distract from governance or service delivery. “We’re joining the APC today in the state interest… to provide the needed support,” he said, emphasizing that his administration remains committed to policies that promote economic growth and social welfare.
Political observers say the meeting with President Tinubu signals Eno’s intent to strengthen ties at the federal level while consolidating his position within the ruling party.
For many residents, however, the central concern remains whether the political realignment will translate into tangible dividends in infrastructure, employment and development across Akwa Ibom.