April 06, (THEWILL) — In a heartfelt Easter gathering that reflected his deep-rooted connection with his people, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, returned to his country home in Ikot Ekpene Udo to meet face-to-face with youth leaders from across the 64 villages of Nsit Ubium, a move many described as a powerful reminder of his enduring closeness to the grassroots.
Rather than a distant, formal address from government house, the meeting carried the warmth of a homecoming. Surrounded by familiar faces and voices from his ancestral land, Governor Eno spoke not just as a leader, but as one of their own, appealing directly to the conscience and responsibility of the youths.
With growing concern over the vandalism of public infrastructure such as transformers, school buildings, and electrical installations, the Governor charged the youths to rise as protectors of their communities.
He urged them to take ownership of government projects, emphasising that these assets ultimately belong to the people.
“Protect what is yours”, he told them in a tone that blended authority with kinship, underscoring that development can only thrive where communities take responsibility for sustaining it.
In a firm but measured stance, the Governor revealed that his administration is considering a law that would hold community leaders accountable for negligence, including possible withdrawal of official recognition or appointments for those who fail to safeguard public assets.
The proposal, he explained, is not punitive but necessary to instil a culture of responsibility at the grassroots. Yet beyond policy and warnings, the gathering retained its human touch.
Governor Eno encouraged the youths to support the ongoing registration of women’s cooperatives, a grassroots initiative to empower rural women and strengthen local economies, a cause he spoke about with visible passion.
He also used the opportunity to preach peace ahead of the political season, urging the youths to reject violence and embrace lawful engagement.
The response from the youth leaders was equally warm. They commended the Governor not only for his leadership but for his willingness to return home and engage them directly, a gesture they said reflects humility and genuine care.
They pledged their continued support and expressed appreciation for the developmental strides in Nsit Ubium.
For many in attendance, the Easter meeting was more than a policy dialogue; it was a reaffirmation of a leader’s bond with his roots. Governor Eno’s homecoming stood out as a reminder that leadership, at its best, begins at home.
