Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has declared September 2026 a Month of Gratitude as the state prepares to mark its 39th anniversary, announcing the commissioning of 39 projects across the state as part of the anniversary celebrations.
Governor Eno announced this on Sunday, August 23, 2026, during the Victory Thanksgiving Service marking the end of the 2026 Discovery Convention of the All Nations Christian Ministry International, popularly known as The Lord’s Kitchen.
Eno also stated that President Bola Tinubu is expected to pay an official visit to Akwa Ibom to commission some of the projects executed by his administration.
He called on Akwa Ibom residents to use September to reflect on what he described as God’s faithfulness to the state and unite in thanksgiving.
The governor announced that the 39th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service would be held on September 20 at the International Christian Worship Centre, while a State Banquet would take place on September 23 at the new banquet hall of ARISE Palm Resort.
On the anticipated visit by the President, Governor Eno said the state was looking forward to welcoming President Tinubu, noting that his presence would add significance to the anniversary celebrations.
He called on the people to pray for a successful presidential visit and the commissioning of the projects.
The governor also announced that the 2026 Akwa Ibom Christmas Carol would be held on Friday, December 18, with the theme “Peace on Earth and Goodwill to Men”, drawn from Luke 2:14.
He explained that participating choirs would be selected through a pitching portal, adding that Harmonic Voices had already been prequalified.
Speaking on the thanksgiving service, Governor Eno expressed appreciation to the clergy, members of the ministry, stakeholders, and other supporters for their commitment and support.
Describing members of the ministry as his “heroes”, the governor thanked them for believing in the vision of All Nations Christian Ministry International and for giving him the privilege of leading them.
He also thanked dignitaries and guests who attended the Victory Thanksgiving Service, noting that their presence had transformed what was initially a church programme into a state service.
The Victory Thanksgiving brought the 2026 Discovery Convention to a close and marked the beginning of activities for Akwa Ibom’s 39th anniversary celebrations, with the commissioning of 39 projects, thanksgiving activities and the anticipated presidential visit forming major highlights of the programme.
