By Jeremiah Edoho
The story of Governor Umo Eno’s recent gesture toward Minister Chris Vic, also known as Christian Victor Eshiet, a visually impaired singer and keyboardist from Eket and a former student of the School for the Blind in Umuahia, is one woven with passion and divine alignment.
Governor Eno’s directive approving the allocation of land to Chris Vic for the construction of a four-bedroom apartment, alongside a ₦100 million investment for a modern musical studio and a monthly ₦1 million support package, has once again illuminated a leadership style anchored on compassion, boldly reflected in his ARISE Agenda.
This gesture goes beyond philanthropy; it mirrors the Governor’s broader governance philosophy. One that is not focused solely on infrastructure, but places human capital at the center of development. By empowering creatives, young entrepreneurs, and emerging influencers, the Governor is deliberately investing in lives capable of shaping generations.
The musical studio initiative, in particular, is not just a gift. It is a strategic investment in the creative industry, one of the world’s most powerful youth-driven economic engines.
In 2025, Minister Christian Victor Eshiet emerged second runner-up in Season 4 of the De9jaspirit Talent Hunt, distinguishing himself among 22 contestants nationwide. His soul-deep, angelic performances, especially his unforgettable gospel delivery in the High Voltage episode, captivated audiences and demonstrated how divine purpose shines brightest through adversity.
Critically, providing shelter remains one of the most dignifying forms of empowerment, fostering security, productivity, and emotional balance. By ensuring that Chris Vic has a home within the state capital, Governor Eno sends a powerful message, that individual wellbeing is a government priority, not an afterthought. It affirms that governance must touch the human spirit, not just the physical environment.
Observers note that this form of compassionate, people-centered leadership is fast becoming the defining character of Pastor Umo Eno’s administration. From youth-focused empowerment programmes to community-based interventions and the ARISE Compassion Initiative, the Governor consistently demonstrates that the true test of power lies in the ability to uplift others, a trait increasingly rare in today’s public leadership.
As conversations intensify ahead of the 2027 elections, this moment offers a clear reminder of why Governor Eno remains the people’s choice. His leadership is not performative; it is transformational. He does not merely build roads, he builds people. He does not simply initiate projects, he creates pathways for citizens to realize their destinies.
Therefore, re-electing him means consolidating a future where more young people are empowered, more talents are discovered, and more lives are restored.
In conclusion, Pastor Eno’s magnanimity toward Chris Vic exemplifies a leader who understands that societies grow best when people are given the tools to dream, create, and thrive. It is this human-first mindset that sets him apart, and it is why Akwa Ibom stands to benefit immensely by allowing him to continue shaping a state where governance is not just about structures, but about souls.
—Jeremiah Edoho,
Writes from Idua Ntak-Inyang,
Esit Eket LGA.
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