Pastor Umo Eno, the Akwa Ibom State Governor, has declared January 2, 2024, a work-free day in the state in a bid to allow the residents of the state to attend the New Year interdenominational thanksgiving ceremony at the International Christian Worship Centre, Uyo, the state capital.
Eno, who made the statement in his Boxing Day address during the celebrations in his hometown, Ikot Ekpene Udo, Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, invited all residents of the state to come out as a people united under one God for service while emphasising the importance of maintaining unity and development.
He described the celebration as a forum for bringing Akwa Ibom people together to advance peace and the spirit of unity across the state.
“Don’t forget that on January 2, we will have Akwa Ibom New Year Service at the International Christian Worship Centre,” the governor added. “The International Worship Centre is finished and looking nice. We have designated that day a work-free day for all Akwa Ibom residents to come and worship and dedicate the year to God’s hands.”
Eno thanked the immediate past governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel, and his wife, Dr Martha Emmanuel, as well as political stakeholders, royal fathers, religious leaders, Akwa Ibom people, non-indigenes living in the state and dignitaries who travelled from afar for attending the event, describing it as a coming and great union.
“I want to thank everyone for coming here today. This is similar to a unity event, bringing all of us together in this small village of Ikot Ekpene Udo,” he added.
Emmanuel, in company with his wife, Martha, expressed enthusiasm about the event and commended the incumbent governor for using it to encourage love, peace, and harmony in the state.
Earlier, the Transition Chairman of Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, Iniobong Orok, welcomed people to rejoice with the governor and his kinsmen, reflecting their love and acceptance for him.
