Gov. Eno Meets Tinubu, Briefs President on State Matters Amid Oil Wells Dispute
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has reportedly held a private meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, as tensions linger over disputed maritime boundaries with neighbouring Cross River State. The dispute traces back to the ceding of the oil-rich Bakassi Peninsula to Cameroon in 2008, previously under Cross River’s control.
Sources indicate that the discussion included the controversial issue of 76 oil wells, a matter previously resolved in favour of Akwa Ibom by both the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague and twice by the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
“Yes, the oil wells issue featured on the agenda alongside other critical state matters,” a Government House insider told journalists.
Upon returning from the meeting, Gov. Eno spoke briefly with the press at Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, describing his visit as a routine presidential briefing.
“Naturally, governors periodically brief the President on the affairs of their states. He is the father of the nation, and such briefings cover areas where assistance is needed and developments within the state,” he said.
The governor also addressed his administration’s commitment to protecting Akwa Ibom’s oil assets. At last week’s anniversary event for his late wife, Patience Eno, and her initiative, Golden Initiative For All (GIFA), he reiterated that no part of the state’s maritime boundaries would be ceded, accusing Cross River’s Governor Bassey Otu of politicising the oil wells issue to gain electoral advantage.
In addition, Gov. Eno shared insights from his recent visit to the CSS Farm in Nasarawa State, describing it as a study tour aimed at enhancing the ongoing Ibom Model Farm. He said the exercise was designed to observe best practices in agriculture and identify ideas that could be adapted and implemented in Akwa Ibom as part of his Arise Agenda for agricultural development.
“The visit was a study tour. We went to see what they are doing and what we can do differently. Comparing notes is essential—there’s nothing new under the sun, but we can learn from their success stories and apply relevant lessons to our initiatives,” he added.
Gov. Eno concluded that both visits were part of his broader effort to expand development opportunities and strengthen the state’s economic foundations.
