Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has felicitated veteran journalist, author, and broadcaster, Dr. Reuben Abati, on the occasion of his 60th birthday and the public presentation of his two new books , “How Jonathan Became President” and “A Love Letter and Other Stories” — describing him as a “purpose-driven intellectual and patriot whose career has enriched national discourse and governance.”
The event, which held on Friday, October 5, at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Lagos, was chaired by Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, Former President Olusegun Obasanjo serving as Father of the Day with Catholic Bishop, Mathew Hassan Kukah as Guest Speaker.
Representing Governor Umo Eno at the event were the Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah, and the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Ekerete Udoh. The Commissioner delivered the Governor’s goodwill message on behalf of the Government and people of Akwa Ibom State.
In his message, Governor Eno lauded Dr. Abati for a life of purposeful impact across academia, law, journalism, and public service, noting that his contributions have significantly shaped Nigeria’s democratic experience and intellectual landscape.
“At 60, you have lived a purpose-driven life — first as an academic exuding deep intellectual flourishes, a policy wonk simplifying complex policies for effective governance, and as a lawyer guarding the gates of justice,” Governor Eno said.
He further extolled Dr. Abati’s distinguished career in journalism and public communication, particularly his tenure as Presidential Spokesman, which placed him “at the centre of discourse and consequential moments in our nation’s growth and development.”
Governor Eno also expressed appreciation for Dr. Abati’s constructive engagement with the Akwa Ibom project, adding that his contributions to national media and public enlightenment continue to inspire many in leadership and public service.
“Let me thank you for the constructive engagement you have extended to us as we galvanize our people to arise and extend the frontiers of our development,” the Governor stated, expressing optimism that the relationship would continue to grow stronger.
He concluded by congratulating Dr. Abati on his book launch and milestone celebration, wishing him good health, renewed strength, and many more years of impactful service to Nigeria.
The event attracted a galaxy of eminent Nigerians, members of the diplomatic corps, and the media community, including Former Governors of Ogun State, Aremo Olusegun Osoba and Senator Gbenga Daniel, Publisher of ThisDay Newspapers, Prince Nduka Obaigbena; Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo; Chairman Trioka Group, Mr Biodun Shobanjo, Former Minister of Health, Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi; Publisher of The Guardian, Lady Maiden Alex-Ibru; Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti; Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer of Dangote Industries Limited, Mr. Anthony Chiejina, who represented the President of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote.
