The Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) has honoured Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, as its Governor of the Year 2025, citing his leadership, transparency, and achievements under the ARISE Agenda.
The award was presented on Thursday during the public unveiling of the Socio-Economic Impact Assessment of the ARISE Agenda in Two Years at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Uyo.
Delivering the NGF’s message, Prof. Abba Gambo—representing the Forum’s Director-General, Alhaji Abdullateef Shittu—praised Eno’s governance style, fiscal discipline, and development strides.
“In a State-by-State comparative analysis, Akwa Ibom came out top.
“It is therefore with great pleasure that the Nigerian Governors’ Forum presents this award to His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, as the Governor of the Year 2025,” Gambo said.
The NGF commended the governor for executing numerous completed and ongoing projects across sectors without taking bank loans or relying on external borrowing—an uncommon achievement in the current economic climate.
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In his acceptance speech, Eno dedicated the award to the people of Akwa Ibom State, pledging continued people-focused and transparent governance.
“This recognition is both humbling and encouraging,” Eno said. “We will continue to use the resources of Akwa Ibom State to work for Akwa Ibom people—building infrastructure, empowering communities, and shaping a more prosperous future.”
He credited his administration’s progress to prudent resource management, institutional reforms, and the strategic developmental framework of the ARISE Agenda.
The event featured policy reviews, expert analyses, and presentations on the state’s two-year development record.
Federal Government officials, ministers, economic experts, development partners, civil society groups, and journalists attended, with many commending the state for opening its records to public and independent scrutiny.