Former Akwa Ibom State Governor, Udom Emmanuel, turned 60 on Saturday, receiving goodwill messages from Governor Umo Eno, former members of his administration, political associates and supporters who praised his leadership and contributions to the state’s development.

The tributes, many of which were shared on social media, described Emmanuel as a disciplined leader, mentor and statesman whose influence has remained strong since leaving office in 2023.

Governor Eno, in his birthday message, commended his predecessor for what he described as a lifetime of purposeful service, visionary leadership and commitment to the growth of Akwa Ibom State.

He said Emmanuel’s administration left behind a lasting legacy of development and prayed for God to grant him good health, wisdom, strength and many more years of fulfilment.

Among those who paid tribute were former Commissioner for Information, Ini Ememobong, and former media aide, Aniekeme Finbarr, both of whom served under Emmanuel’s administration.

In a tribute titled “Udom Emmanuel @ 60: When the Hunter Became the Hunted,” Ememobong recounted how close associates successfully organised a surprise birthday gathering despite the former governor’s long-standing habit of avoiding birthday celebrations by travelling out of town.

He said Emmanuel was caught off guard after attending the monthly Holy Ghost Service of the Redeemed Christian Church of God in Lagos before returning home, where friends and family surprised him.

Ememobong described the former governor as someone who prefers celebrating others rather than himself and concluded his tribute by wishing him a happy 60th birthday.

Earlier, Emmanuel’s media aide, Stephen Abia, disclosed that the former governor had cancelled plans for a public celebration, opting instead to spend the day in private reflection and prayer.

According to Abia, Emmanuel chose to dedicate the milestone to meditation on leadership, responsibility and nation-building.

Finbarr also described the former governor as a father, mentor and exceptional leader whose life has been defined by integrity, compassion and service, expressing hope that his best years still lie ahead.

Supporters across Akwa Ibom State also celebrated Emmanuel’s birthday with messages of goodwill, praying for his continued good health and acknowledging his contributions to governance and public service.

A former banking executive and chartered accountant, Emmanuel was elected governor on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2015 and re-elected in 2019. He handed over to Governor Umo Eno in 2023 after completing two terms in office.

While Eno later defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Emmanuel has remained a member of the PDP. Saturday’s tributes reflected the enduring support he continues to enjoy among many former aides and political associates despite recent political realignments in the state.

(Photo Credit: PremiumTimes)