Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno on Sunday returned to his spiritual roots at The Apostolic Church, Lagos where he revealed the prophecy behind his emergence as governor of oil-rich Akwa Ibom State.

The governor returned to the church and held a thanking service at the church he said nurtured him spiritually, and prophesied that he would be a governor one day.

Governor Eno, who served in various ministerial capacities within the church before relocating to Akwa Ibom State in 1995, described the visit as a deeply emotional and significant spiritual milestone.

“Thirty years after leaving, it is emotional being back,” the Governor said. “The Spirit of the Lord laid heavily upon my heart to return to Bethel. When you read Genesis 35, it will be clear to you why we’re here. This is a significant spiritual exercise. When a child forgets the blessings of yesterday, he will foreclose and forfeit the blessings of tomorrow.”

He recalled his healing from chronic illness during a church revival in 1975, a transformative moment that marked the beginning of his enduring faith and service.

“By the grace of God, I got my healing in that revival. My mother and I began attending this church regularly. I went through school here, and everyone in the neighborhood knew us.”

The Governor paid tribute to the late Apostle George Isong, former District Pastor, who played a pivotal role in his early development and advised him to marry young. “I married at 22, my wife was 19. These are the products you see today,” he remarked with gratitude.

Governor Eno also acknowledged Pastor James Okon and other mentors who positively shaped his life. He recounted a prophetic message he received in 1980 from a young girl during a church prayer meeting, who foretold his future leadership: “She said, ‘Umo Bassey, for your labour of love, I will return you to your homeland, and you’ll be a governor of my people.’”

Though skeptical at the time, the Governor admitted that the prophecy remained etched in his heart. “My mother told me, ‘Mbakara, every vision is for an appointed time.’ I never forgot those words.”

Reflecting on the diversity of people who supported his rise, Governor Eno emphasized inclusivity and kindness beyond ethnic or religious lines.

“God’s destiny helpers may be Christians, Muslims, or even pagans. The person God uses to help you may not be from your village. This is why I cannot be tribalistic in anything I do.”

He also expressed deep appreciation for former Governor Deacon Udom Emmanuel, whom he credited with playing a divine role in the fulfillment of the 1980 prophecy. “I will never dishonor Deacon Udom Emmanuel. God used him to fulfill the words spoken right here in this church.”

In keeping with the spirit of thanksgiving, the Governor announced a range of empowerment initiatives and support for members of the church and the broader congregation. He also acknowledged generous donations from friends and associates who accompanied him.

In a sermon titled “Greatness in Humility,” Pastor Dr. Senior Gabriel Uyeh, National Vice President of The Apostolic Church, praised Governor Eno’s humility and simplicity, noting that true greatness stems from a humble heart. “Pride and arrogance have destroyed many destinies. Humility lifts men up,” he said.

Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Barrister Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, lauded Governor Eno’s accomplishments and moral foundation.

“Your leadership reflects the values shaped by your formative years in Lagos. This thanksgiving reminds us that without God, we can achieve nothing.”

Earlier in his welcome address, the District Apostle and Area Superintendent, Pastor Dr. Solomon Nkopeti, celebrated Governor Eno as a faithful steward of the Apostolic vision.

He listed numerous roles the Governor had held in the church—from chorister and deacon to elder and committee chairman—and commended him for his consistent dedication.

“Your Excellency, today in Akwa Ibom State, your administration is a living testimony of Proverbs 29:2: ‘When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice.’ Your inclusive leadership, commitment to accountability, and investment in people continue to reshape the future of our state.”

Pastor Nkopeti concluded by acknowledging that although the Governor’s divine assignment took him to Akwa Ibom, his spiritual roots remain firmly planted in the Maboju Assembly.