Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has eulogised Chief Michael Afangideh for his steadfast support and dedicated service to humanity.
The Governor gave the commendation at a special commemorative 106th birthday celebration in honour of the centenarian tagged, “The Golden Boy Celebrates the Iroko,” held at his country home, Ikot Idem in Essien Udim Local Government Area of the state, November 15, 2025.
He noted that during his governorship campaign, he consulted Chief Afangideh and received his blessings, adding that beyond the blessings, the man fondly known as Iroko joined him on campaign tour across the length and breadth of the State.
Governor Eno said he was filled with gratitude to God for the blessing of longevity on the statesman, a great honour which he believes deserves celebration.
“I came to respect who God has honoured. God has kept him for 106 years and I recall during my campaign, he went with us and I am here to celebrate him. I know that my coming will strengthen him and give him more good health.
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“May God continue to bless and keep you. Thank you for all your support so far. When we left to APC, you followed us. I have seen the love you have for me. So, on behalf of the government and people of Akwa Ibom State, we celebrate you and wish you more years in Jesus name, Amen,” he added.
In his remarks, the member representing Essien Udim State Constituency, Prince Ukpong Akpabio, commended the Governor for celebrating their leader: “Your Excellency, we are delighted. You’ve done well for Essien Udim people. I stand on behalf of all the critical stakeholders to thank you for all the love for Essien Udim and we will reciprocate this by returning you to the Hilltop Mansion. The stakeholders said I should inform you that all Essien Udim votes will be for you.”
Also Speaking, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Udeme Otong, appreciated the visionary leadership of Governor Eno especially for rightly celebrating Chief Afangideh.
“Your Excellency, I want to thank you for the vision God has given you to celebrate the life of Akparawa Michael Afangideh. If you used the money to do burial, it wouldn’t have been this joyful. Chief Afangideh is a man of peace and truth which is why he followed us. Your Excellency, people will celebrate you as you have celebrated our father today in Jesus name, Amen,” he added.
On his part, the Chairman Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers, Akuku Saviour S. Udofia said the celebrator is a man of noble character, and appreciated the Governor for chosing to celebrate his 106th birthday in grand style.
The Governor was accompanied by the Deputy, Senator Akon Eyakenyi; Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Udeme Otong; Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; Executive Assistant/Chief Delivery Advisor Mr Aniefiok Johnson; Dean College of Commissioners, Hon. Frank Archibong and other members of the State Executive Council among others.
