Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, has urged traditional leaders to champion harmony and unity of the country in order to promote commerce and industry among states.
According to a statement made available to newsmen on Tuesday in Uyo, Eno spoke while interacting with the Emir of Kano State, Alhaji Ado Bayero, in his office, Government House Uyo.
He stressed the need for traditional leaders to always ensure mutual harmony among people across the country irrespective of cultural and religious differences.
He, however, appreciated the Hausa community in the state for the support he enjoyed from them during the 2023 governorship elections, reassuring them that he is committed to fulfilling his campaign promises of appointing aides from non-indigenes in the state.
“Your Highness, your visit is a rare royal visit, and we don’t take it for granted. On behalf of the Government and people of Akwa Ibom State, I thank you for honouring us with your esteemed presence here in our Exco Chamber and indeed our State.
“I pray that this visit will continue to cement the relationship between the states and all of our brothers from the Arewa Community particularly between our traditional class.
“I pray this should be a strong bridge that our traditional rulers can explore and do business with the ancient city of Kano. I assure you that we will continue together in harmony with all Nigerians who are here in Akwa Ibom to do business.
”All we ask is that they just follow the simple culture of the people, respect the culture and the laws of the land and they are guaranteed safety at any time,” Eno was quoted to have said in a statement.
According to the statement, the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero, congratulated Eno on his emergence as governor.
He extolled Eno’s style of leadership as well as the visible development stride of past leaders of the State which he stressed is evident in the visible development in the state.
He expressed optimism that his visit though the first official visit to Akwa Ibom would enhance mutually beneficial sociocultural and economic ties between the two states, describing Kano State as the historic centre of commerce in Northern Nigeria and the entire West Africa.