- Patience Umo Eno, First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, passed away at 57 after a brief illness
- Known for her humanitarian work, she founded the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA) to aid vulnerable populations, among other initiatives to support her community
- TheRadar profiles the beloved First Lady, who left behind a legacy of compassion and community service
Patience Umo Eno, the beloved First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, passed away at the age of 57 after a brief illness.
Her death was announced by Ini Ememobong, the state’s Commissioner for Information, in a statement released in the early hours of Friday, September 27.
The statement confirmed that the first lady died on Thursday, September 26 in the presence of her family “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of the Wife of the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Her Excellency, Pastor Mrs. Patience Umo Eno, following an illness. She passed away peacefully at the hospital, on 26th September, 2024, in the presence of her family.
Patience Umo Eno’s family life
Known affectionately as Eka Iberedem Akwa Ibom, which translates to “Mother and strong pillar of Akwa Ibom,” Pastor Patience was born and raised in Akwa Ibom.
She was married to Umo Bassey Eno, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, for over 37 years. Together, they had six children and nine grandchildren, all of whom actively participated in her philanthropic endeavours.
Pastor Patience’s humanitarian work
Pastor Patience was widely cherished for her dedication to humanitarian work and compassionate leadership.
Throughout her life, she dedicated herself to improving the lives of the underprivileged. She created the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA), a non-profit organisation focused on providing food, shelter, and education to vulnerable populations in Akwa Ibom.
In September 2024, she held the fifth edition of the ARISE Initiative for the Elderly, where 600 elderly individuals from each of the 31 local government areas received stipends along with complimentary medical care. This event exemplified her unwavering commitment to uplifting her community.
A strong advocate for health and wellness, Pastor Patience organised numerous medical outreach programs that offered free health check-ups, vaccinations, and health education to underserved communities.
Her focus on the health of children and the elderly highlighted her compassionate approach to community service.
Patience Umo Eno’s contributions to empowerment of the people
Pastor Patience played a pivotal role in advocating for the educational advancement of underprivileged children. She sponsored tuition fees, provided school supplies, and created opportunities for academic success.
Additionally, she initiated vocational and financial empowerment programs to help women gain skills and achieve financial independence, further enhancing her community’s resilience.
Pastor Patience Umo dies at 57
Pastor Patience Umo Eno's life and work touched countless individuals, earning her a revered place in the hearts of many.
Confirming her death, Ini Ememobong, the state’s Commissioner for Information further said, “The family submits to the will of the Almighty and asks for the prayers and support of kind-hearted individuals during this difficult time. Further details will be provided by the family as necessary. In the meantime, the family kindly requests privacy as they mourn their beloved wife, mother and grandmother.
“His Excellency, the Governor, Pastor Umo Eno appreciates all who have stood by the first family in this period and assures all the citizens that despite this huge personal loss, his commitment to the service of the state is unwavering,” the statement read.
Tributes to the late Akwa Ibom’s first lady, Patience Umo
Following her death, tributes have poured in from across the country.
Governor Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State also extended his condolences, recognising her significant impact on the lives of countless citizens.
“On behalf of my wife, Ibijoke and family, the government and people of Lagos State, it is with a deep sense of sorrow that I commiserate with my brother Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, on the passing of his beloved wife, Pastor (Mrs) Patience Umo Eno.
“I pray that the Almighty God will grant the deceased eternal rest and Governor Umo Eno, the entire family, and the people of Akwa Ibom the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss,” Sanwo-Olu stated.
The Nigeria Governors’ Forum expressed shock at her passing, describing her as a precious jewel to the state:
“The NGF sends its heartfelt condolences to His Excellency the Governor, the family, and the people of Akwa Ibom on this devastating loss of the precious jewel.
“Our hearts are with His Excellency and his family at this difficult moment, and we ask that God Almighty give him all the strength he needs to soldier on.”
In the statement titled "Unexpected Sunset," released by Ini Ememobong, the state’s Commissioner for Information, the family requested privacy as they mourn their beloved wife, mother, and grandmother.
Despite the profound loss, her husband, Governor Umo Eno, vowed to continue serving the people of Akwa Ibom State, reflecting the enduring spirit of his late wife.
Pastor Patience Umo Eno left behind a legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering commitment to her community, inspiring future generations to uphold the values she championed throughout her life.
Revisiting the impact of Nigeria’s first Olympic medalist Maiyegun
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that Nojim Maiyegun, Nigeria's first Olympic medalist passed away at the age of 83, leaving a lasting legacy as a pioneer and inspiration in athletics.
TheRadar profiles the true hero with a remarkable impact on the entire nation.