President Bola Tinubu has assured Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, that his defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) will be rewarding, describing the move as bold and strategic.

Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, gave the assurance on Saturday during a grand reception at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

“The party is your home. You will not be humiliated. You will not be forsaken. We are your brothers and sisters in the high tide,” Shettima declared on behalf of the president.

He added, “We rise with the low ebbs, we ride together, and we rise together… That is why, 10 years on, despite all odds, we remain the party to beat.”

The high-profile event was attended by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, and at least 24 APC governors.

Akpabio described Eno’s defection as a “historic alignment” for national development and unity.

“This is not just a political move; it is a historic alignment for development and national integration,” he said, calling on Tinubu to prioritize key Akwa Ibom projects like the long-delayed Ibom Deep Seaport.

Ganduje hailed the governor’s defection as a transition from “political isolation to national relevance,” praising him for bringing his political structure into the APC.

Governor Eno explained that his decision was driven by the need to attract federal support to accelerate development in Akwa Ibom.

“We are not afraid of the future. We have taken this bold step to align Akwa Ibom with the centre for the good of our people,” he said.

He reaffirmed his dedication to the ARISE Agenda and promised to remain a governor for all Akwa Ibom residents, regardless of party lines.

“Let us not focus on partisanship but partnership. Let us sheathe our swords and build one strong, united APC in Akwa Ibom,” Eno added.