Vice President Kashim Shettima on Friday joined some eminent Nigerians and the people of Akwa Ibom State to pay glowing to tribute to Mrs. Patience Eno, wife of Governor Umo Bassey Eno, describing her as a beacon of faith, compassion and women’s transformative leadership.
He described her as a wonderful woman who lived a life of service to God and humanity in pastoral care, just like her husband.
Speaking during her funeral ceremony in Ikot Ekpene Udo, Nsit Ubium local government area of Akwa Ibom State, the Vice President said the invaluable contributions of the late Mrs. Eno to society and her exemplary role as a silent yet profound leader in Nigeria will be an inspiration for generations.
He said, “We are here to celebrate life, the life of an Amazon who has contributed immensely and tremendously to the peace, stability, and progress of Akwa Ibom State, the South-South region, and the nation as a whole. She was a pillar of support to her husband, the family, and we are all going to surely miss her.”
VP Shettima who attended the funeral at the behest of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu prayed God to “grant His Excellency the Governor, the Senate President, the government, and the good people of Akwa Ibom State the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”
According to the Vice President, the late “Mrs. Patience Eno embodied the essence of women’s unsung leadership in our society.
“Her actions spoke louder than words, through her service to the underprivileged, her pastoral commitment, and her tireless dedication to the well-being of others,” he added.
VP Shettima lauded the late First Lady for her charitable initiative, the Golden Initiative for All (GIFA), which provided essential resources such as food, shelter, and education to vulnerable members of the community.
“She was not just a wife or a mother; she was a leader who exemplified the strength and grace of Nigerian women. Through her work with GIFA and her unwavering faith, she touched countless lives and left an indelible mark on Akwa Ibom and beyond,” the Vice President stated.
Noting the broader significance of Mrs. Eno’s life as a reflection of women’s leadership in Nigeria, Senator Shettima said the nation owes much of its progress to women like her, “who led not with titles but with actions.”
He continued: “They are the backbone of families, communities, and our nation’s moral compass. Her legacy of service, compassion, and faith is a beacon that will continue to inspire generations. She lived not just for herself but for others—for God, for Akwa Ibom, and humanity.
“She showed us all that leadership is not always in the spotlight. It is in the quiet sacrifices, the selfless acts of giving, and the courage to care for others,” the Vice President added.
Dignitaries who attended the funeral service included President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio; Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin Barau; Wife of the Vice President, Nana Kashim Shettima, and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu.
Others are a member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency, Hon. Unyime Idem; other members of the National Assembly; Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa; Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, and immediate past Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr Udom Emmanuel, among many others.
Stanley Nkwocha
Senior Special to The President on Media & Communications
(Office of The Vice President)
29th November 2024
