Umo Eno marked his 62nd birthday with a series of humanitarian gestures, offering scholarships, automatic employment, housing support, and other benefits to children and caregivers in orphanages across Akwa Ibom State.
The governor made the announcement during a special celebration at Divine Children’s Home, explaining that he chose to spend his birthday with vulnerable children to inspire hope and reinforce the belief that one’s background should not define one’s future.
“We are here to encourage them and give them hope. For me, this is renewed hope—that they know they are not rejected or forgotten. We are with them, and that gives me a happy birthday,” he said.
Governor Eno noted that since assuming office, he has dedicated his birthdays to acts of compassion, describing service to humanity as his greatest source of fulfillment.
Addressing the children, he reassured them of a brighter future, emphasizing that every child has purpose. “No child is born by accident… We will nurture them and help them realize their destinies,” he added.
As part of the initiative, the governor approved automatic employment for 22 volunteer caregivers and four additional beneficiaries in the state civil service. He also authorized further vocational training for 15 individuals at the Ibom Leadership and Entrepreneurial Development Centre and the Dakadda Skills Acquisition Centre, with starter packs to support them upon completion.
In addition, one beneficiary, Abigail Okon Edet, was awarded an overseas postgraduate scholarship, while two graduates already employed in the civil service will receive housing support.
The governor also outlined plans to transition beneficiaries into independent living through relocation to suitable accommodation outside the orphanage system.
He cautioned against the unchecked proliferation of orphanages, calling for stricter regulatory compliance, and urged individuals and organizations to continue supporting vulnerable groups.
In her remarks, Helen Eno Obareki described the governor as a compassionate leader whose policies consistently prioritize the welfare of the vulnerable. She added that his decision to celebrate with orphanages reflects a broader commitment to improving the lives of disadvantaged citizens across the state.
