As the countdown to 2027 is set to begin in earnest, a foremost socio-political group, Arise With Renewed Hope Initiative, has berthed in Akwa Ibom State.
The State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, who has given a nod to the group, said the State must continue on the trajectory of peace and development even as political activities are about to commence ahead of the 2027 elections.
The President-General of the Arise With Renewed Hope Initiative, Engr. Uwem Okoko said the group was composed of persons with like minds who have come together to mobilise successfully for the overwhelming re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senator Godswill Akpabio, Gov Umo Eno and other candidates of the All Progressives Congress, APC.
“President Bola Tinubu’s administration has given Akwa Ibom State the best integration with the Federal Government. Today, we have a sitting and performing Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, who is doing well, promoting the interest of Akwa Ibom State and fostering the unity and growth that abounds as the first son of the soil to attain that office.
“Akwa Ibom State stands with President Bola Tinubu for his second term. We stand with Senator Godswill Akpabio, not just for his re-election but for his return as Senate President in 2027, and support Gov. Umo Eno to consolidate on his impressive leadership service beyond 2027. The APC will win all 26 seats in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, 10 House of Representatives seats and three Senatorial seats,” the President General added.
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Receiving the group on Friday, January 9, 2025, Governor Eno, during a courtesy visit at the Hilltop Mansion Government House, Uyo.
He commended the initiators of the group for successfully translating the idea from conceptualisation to actualisation, describing the composition of the group as a true reflection of a united Akwa Ibom.
The Governor appreciated the composition of the group, describing them as people who have come to drive the future of unity that would enhance development for the success of the ARISE Agenda.
“This group reflects the unity of the Akwa Ibom Spirit, and I believe this group will enhance a seamless election for President Tinubu, Senator Godswill Akpabio, myself and other candidates of the Party.
“As history beckons towards the general elections, we must ensure that all groups have the endorsement of the party. We must continue on the trajectory of peace and development. You cannot sacrifice one for the other. Without peace, there can be no development.
“I want to use this opportunity to charge the people of Akwa Ibom State to participate in the ongoing e-registration of voters by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and mobilise effectively for a massive victory at the Polls,” he said.
In his remarks, the Chairman, Board of Trustees, Sir Victor Antai, said the unity steered by Governor Umo Eno and Senator Godswill Akpabio has re-engineered the political landscape of development in the State.
“I am impressed with the calibre of persons at this gathering. It is the beginning of a new history, and in 2027, we shall give every candidate of the APC in Akwa Ibom State the utmost support for victory,” he added.
Similarly, the State Party Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Obong Stephen Ntukekpo, assured that the ARISE with Renewed Hope Initiative Group will have a place and role in the campaign structure of the party and commended members of the group for coming together in the new history that has dawned in the political horizon of the State.
“This group will have a place in the campaign structure of the APC as we look forward to when campaigns shall start, and we will work in synergy to carry everyone along the path of victory,” the State APC Chairman added.
Rt. Hon. (Sir) Udo Kierian is the International Coordinator of the Group, while other members of the BOT include Rt. Hon. Otobong Bob, Sir Monday Uko, Prof. Eno Ibanga, Chief Saviour Enyiekere and Prince Enobong Uwah as Secretary General of the Board of Trustees.
Mrs Eunice Thomas, Rt. Hon. Eric Akpan, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Uko, Rt. Hon. Uno Etim Uno, Hon. Anthony Luke are Coordinators in the Senatorial Districts, Mkpisong Frank Archibong, Organising Secretary, Dr Glory Edet is the woman leader, and Hon. Aniekan Umanah is the Director of Media/Publicity.
The group disclosed plans to visit the Senate President and also embark on local government tours before its grand launch.
