Coordinator of the office of the First Lady, Akwa Ibom State, Lady Helen Eno Obareki, has described the Pastor Patience Umo Eno Memorial Tournament as a befitting tribute to the enduring legacy of the First Lady, Pastor Patience Umo Eno, one that promotes youth empowerment, talent development and community engagement.

She was speaking at the grand finale of the maiden edition of the tournament organised by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Support Group, Mr Victor Etangkanga, at the Methodist Primary School, Afaha Ekpenedi, Esit Eket Local Government Area, between Ward 2 and Ward 3.

Lady Obareki who commended the collective efforts that contributed to the success of the tournament, specifically lauded the convener, Mr. Victor Etangkanga, for his dedication and commitment to sustaining the legacy of the Pastor Patience Umo Eno.

 “The result is always encouraging when you empower youths with good initiative and wisdom. Thank you, Victor Etangkanga, for putting this together to immortalize my mother’s memory and ensure her legacies continue to live on,” she said.

She noted that the tournament had not only showcased raw talents among the youth but created a platform for skills development, reflecting the ARISE Spirit of creativity, unity, and purpose.

In his remarks, the Convener of the Pastor Patience Umo Eno Memorial Football Tournament, Mr. Victor Etangkanga, described the event as a testament to the impactful life and selfless service of the late Pastor Patience Umo Eno, whose benevolence touched countless lives.

He expressed appreciation to Lady Helen Eno Obareki for gracing the event, and to Governor Umo Eno for providing him the opportunity to serve and promote the ARISE Agenda at the grassroots level.

Etangkanga further explained that the tournament, which kicked off on September 28, featured teams from the 10 wards of Esit Eket, with the aim of discovering and nurturing young sporting talents.

At the end of the tournament, Ward 2 emerged champions of the Pastor Patience Umo Eno Memorial Football Tournament, defeating Ward 3, by 5 goals to 4, in a thrilling penalty shootout, going home with one-million-naira prize money and a trophy.

Among dignitaries who witnessed the finals were the spouse of the Coordinator of the office of the First Lady, Elder Onoriode Obareki, the Commissioner for Women Affairs Mrs Inibehe Etukudo, Commissioner for Sports Elder Paul Bassey and Commissioner for Health Dr John Emmanuel, the wife of the Commissioner for transport Dr Umo Gabriel, the member Representing Esit Eket in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly and wife, Chairmen of Esit Eket, Nsit Ibom and Ibeno Local Government Councils, President of WALGON Mrs Akaninyene Udo, among others.