The Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) has named Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State as its Governor of the Year 2025.
According to the Forum, the award was given in recognition of his leadership, transparency, and achievements under the ARISE Agenda.
The award was presented during the public unveiling of the Socio-Economic Impact Assessment of the ARISE Agenda in Two Years, held on Thursday at the Banquet Hall of the Government House in Uyo.
Speaking at the event on behalf of the NGF Director-General, Alhaji Abdullateef Shittu, Professor Abba Gambo praised Governor Eno’s leadership. He noted that Akwa Ibom State ranked top in governance, financial discipline, and development delivery.
“In a comparison of states, Akwa Ibom came out on top,” Professor Gambo said. “It is with great pleasure that the Nigerian Governors’ Forum presents this award to His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, as Governor of the Year 2025.”
The Forum also praised Governor Eno for successfully carrying out many projects across different sectors without taking loans or borrowing from external sources, which is rare in Nigeria’s present economic condition.
In his speech, Governor Eno dedicated the award to the people of Akwa Ibom State. He said his government would continue to focus on transparency and the welfare of the people.
He thanked the NGF for the honour and said the success of his administration was due to prudent management of resources, institutional reforms, and a clear plan guided by the ARISE Agenda.
“This recognition is both humbling and encouraging,” the governor said. “We will keep using the resources of Akwa Ibom to serve the people — by building infrastructure, supporting communities, and creating a better future.”
The event also included reviews of government policies, expert presentations, and reports on the state’s development progress over the last two years.
Guests at the event included federal government officials, ministers, economic experts, development partners, civil society leaders, and journalists. Many of them praised the Akwa Ibom State Government for allowing its performance to be openly reviewed and assessed independently.
