Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has commended the security personnel and other staff of the State Government House for their unwavering commitment to duty, describing them as exemplary professionals.
Governor Eno made the commendation during a Dinner and Award Ceremony organized by the Security Department of Government House to appreciate their men and officers as well as other strategic workers who have distinguished themselves in their respective duty posts.
Governor Eno commended his Chief Security Officer, CSP Besta Sini, and her team for their remarkable organization of the event which he noted was an impressive display of ingenuity, creativity, and professionalism.
He expressed delight at the award night, disclosing that he conceived the idea from a casual observation and desired to have a relaxed atmosphere to appreciate the men and officers for their sacrifices and commitment to duty.
“She has shown creativity by transforming the idea into this beautiful evening and I want to thank her and her team for this feat,” he said.
Acknowledging the team spirit and commitment of the security officers and staff of other departments to their schedule, Governor Eno emphasized that they all deserved to be celebrated.
“In other climes, security officers are always celebrated, but here, the story is different. They are often abused, but that doesn’t stop them from doing their jobs. So, I sincerely thank my security team and other award recipients for their hard work and commitment,” he added.
He charged the security team and staff of other departments to continue to remain diligent and committed to their duties even in the face of daunting challenges assuring that their rewards will surely come.
The State Chief Executive commended the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, for his excellent working relationship not only with his officers, but with those in other security agencies, for the maintenance of peace and security in the State.
Governor Eno, while presenting the awards to the awardees, acknowledged Mr. Isaac Atakan for his selfless service to the government even when his appointment had not been formalized.
“I could have sworn that this man is a Personal Assistant or Special Assistant because of the way he works –always on point. But, he wasn’t given any appointment,” he said.
He, therefore, directed the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, to, “on Monday morning next week, issue a letter of appointment to Mr. Isaac Atakan, as Personal Assistant to the Governor on Protocol, backdating it to 29th May, 2023. All the arrears of his allowances should be calculated and paid up, plus my personal award of N5 million for his selfless services of more than two years.”
Earlier, CSP Sini had appreciated the Governor for his exceptional support and interventions which, according to her, has encouraged and motivated them to deliver quality service.
CSP Sini extolled the remarkable leadership of the Governor, and pledged to continue to ensure that their jobs are appropriately executed to meet up with the expected standards.
In his vote of thanks, CP Azare scored the Governor high for his support to the Nigerian Police and other security agencies in the State, stressing that such has made the state one of the most peaceful in the country.
CP Azare appreciated the Governor’s security team led by CSP Sini and other awardees for their loyalty and dedication to their assignment, observing that there is always a reward for hard work and commitment.
In a short remark, DCP Francis Osagie Erhabor, psc (Rtd.), Senior Special Assistant (Intelligence) to the Governor, also appreciated him for his support and staff motivation, saying, “Sir, we thank you sincerely. This gesture will undoubtedly endear deeper loyalty, strengthen dedication, and inspire renewed commitment among the security personnel who serve within the Government House. When people feel seen and valued, they give their best, and that is exactly what you have ignited today.”
The Award ceremony saw over 24 Officers and men presented various awards for gallantry and excellent services. The Chief Information Officer, CIO, in the Governor’s Press Corps, Mr. Uwem Kerns was also amongst beneficiaries.
The award ceremony which also featured drama presentation, was witnessed by the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi; Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; members of the State Executive Council; Chairmen of Local Government Councils; political stalwarts; captains of industry; and other Government functionaries.
