Patience, the wife of Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, has passed away.
She died in a hospital after battling an undisclosed illness, according to a statement by the state’s Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Ini Ememobong.
The news of Patience’s death, which broke early Friday, sent shockwaves across the state. Her sudden passing, at the age of 57, was unexpected.
Read Also: Cause Of Death Of First Lady Of Akwa Ibom, Patience Umo Eno
Just last month, she hosted 600 senior citizens from the 31 Local Government Areas, including non-indigenes, at the fifth edition of the ARISE Initiative for the Elderly in Uyo. At the event, she distributed N50,000 stipends and provided free medical care, reflecting her dedication to service.
Her death brings to mind the words of William Shakespeare, who described life as a stage where everyone plays their part before leaving.
Affectionately known as “Eka Iberedem Akwa Ibom,” meaning “Mother and Strong Pillar of Akwa Ibom,” Patience was a symbol of hope and selfless love. She hailed from Ikot Akpa Ekop, a prominent community in Ikpa Ibom, Mkpat Enin—an oil-rich, agrarian region where oil was first discovered in Nigeria.
Her contributions to the community were immeasurable, and her humanitarian efforts touched countless lives. She founded the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA), a foundation focused on providing shelter, food, education, and other resources to the underprivileged.
Patience was married for over 37 years and was a mother to six children and a grandmother to nine. She also supported her husband in managing Royalty Hotel, a successful hospitality conglomerate offering apartments, catering services, coffee shops, and more.
Her legacy as a compassionate leader and a pillar of strength will continue to resonate in Akwa Ibom and beyond.
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