By Erewunmi Peace

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has shared a personal story of hardship and resilience, revealing how life became difficult for him after the death of his father.

Speaking at the 7th convocation lecture of Mountain Top University in Ibafo, Ogun State, Governor Eno recounted that his father, a police officer, passed away while he was still a young boy.

Following his father’s death, the family faced financial difficulties, and young Umo Eno had to take on responsibilities to support his mother.

“After my father passed away, life became very difficult. I had to hawk soft drinks on the streets of Lagos to help my family,” he said.

The governor’s story highlights the challenges he faced while balancing work and education, a period that shaped his determination and work ethic.

He used the opportunity to encourage graduates to embrace hard work, perseverance, and integrity, warning against the desire for quick success.

Governor Eno’s journey from a street hawker in Lagos to the governor of Akwa Ibom State serves as an inspiring reminder of resilience and the value of perseverance in the face of adversity.