…congratulates newly elected Christian Council Exco
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has called on the church to sustain prayers for peace, unity and stability in the State and the nation as the country gradually approaches another political season.
The Governor made the call on Tuesday May 26, 2026, during the 2026 Conference and inauguration of newly elected Executive committee members of the Christian Council of Nigeria, Akwa Ibom State Chapter, held at the Presbyterian Church, Wellington Bassey Way, Uyo.
Represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Religious Affairs, Pastor Joe Linus, Governor Eno said elections should never become a source of division, hatred or violence among the people, stressing that politics must remain a platform for healthy participation and constructive contributions to societal growth.
Governor Eno who described the Church as a critical partner in nation-building, commended the Christian Council of Nigeria for its contributions to national development, peace building and societal stability.
He expressed appreciation to the leadership and members of the Council for their prayers, support and partnership with his administration, noting that government recognizes the vital role of the Church in governance and social harmony.
According to him, it was in recognition of this role that the administration established the Christian Advisory Council to promote continuous engagement, counsel and collaboration between government and the body of Christ.
Governor Eno also stated that the theme of the conference, “Arise and Shine,” aligns with the vision of his administration, ARISE Agenda, adding that Akwa Ibom State is witnessing remarkable progress through deliberate investments in all facets of governance.
He noted that Akwa Ibom is today widely acknowledged as one of the most peaceful and progressive states in Nigeria, attributing the achievement to unity, collective sacrifice, responsible leadership and the grace of God.
The Governor further assured that his administration would continue to promote peaceful coexistence and maintain an atmosphere where citizens can live, work, worship and pursue legitimate aspirations without fear.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the Christian Council of Nigeria, Rt. Rev. Prince Antai, lauded Governor Umo Eno’s for his leadership style, describing Akwa Ibom as a model state ready for Nigeria and the world.
He congratulated the Governor on his recent victory as the gubernatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress in Akwa Ibom State and pledged the Council’s full support towards his second term bid.
On his part, the Chairman of the Occasion who is also the Honorary Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Affairs, Dr. Ndueso Ekwere, revealed that the Christian Council of Nigeria, founded in 1929, remains the oldest bloc in CAN, renowned for discipline and orderliness.
Dr. Ekwere who commended the State CCN Chairman for his resilience and leadership also thanked God for the presence of the church-friendly Governor of Akwa Ibom State at the conference who was represented by his SSA and welcomed participants to the conference.
The well-attended event featured the presentation of the Pillar of Unity and Development Award to the Governor in recognition of his people-centred leadership and his commitment to peace, unity, and development in governance.