Announces February 20 Date for GIFA 2nd Anniversary
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, has appealed to the people of the state to accept the apology tendered by the Lead Pastor of Household of Love Churches, Rev. Yinka Yusuf, following his reported unguarded and inflammatory remarks against the state and its people.
The Governor made the appeal while speaking at the February edition of the Government House Covenant Service, held at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Uyo.
Governor Eno said that since Rev. Yusuf had openly apologized, Akwa Ibom people should forgive him and put the matter behind them, noting that the state is known for its hospitality and accommodating spirit.
“As a State, we have put this behind us. We have accepted the apologies,” the Governor said, adding that the state was further blessed by the simultaneous visit of the Founder and General Overseer of Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Pastor W.F. Kumuyi, who held a five-day crusade in the state.
The Governor commended security agencies for their diligence, timely intelligence gathering, and prompt intervention, which helped to prevent escalation of the situation.
He further disclosed that he had directed the State Attorney-General to halt the preparation of legal proceedings against Rev. Yusuf.
“We are very hospitable and accommodating people. We ensure our dignitaries come in peace and leave in peace,” he added.
Governor Eno also announced that the 2nd Anniversary of the Golden Initiative for All (GIFA) will be commemorated on February 20, 2026, at Ibom Hall, Uyo.
According to him, the date coincides with the birthday of his late wife, and the event would also serve as a posthumous celebration in her honour.
“Incidentally, the date falls on the birthday of my beloved wife who had gone to be with the Lord. We will be celebrating her posthumous birthday as well. I invite everyone to join us for the events,” he said.
Preaching at the service on the theme “But the Lord stands beside like a great warrior,” drawn from Jeremiah 20:11, the Lead Pastor of Honeystreams Church, Pastor (Dr.) Akomaye Ugar, said that every form of power derives its effectiveness from God.
He admonished Christians to cultivate a deeper experience of God’s power by exercising faith, feeding their spirits with the Word of God, and keeping their covenant with Him.
The Covenant Service featured sessions of praise, worship, choir ministrations, and prayers.
Dignitaries at the service included the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi; Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Lady Helen Obareki; Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong; Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; members of the State Executive Council; political leaders; captains of industry; clergy; government officials; and Christians from across the state.
By Ndifreke Bassey