•Governor Umo Eno and his former teacher, Mr M.O. Moore
Akwa Ibom State governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has honoured his former French teacher, Mr M.O. Moore, nearly five decades after he taught him at St. Francis Secondary School, Ikot Ataku, Eket.
Governor Eno visited the Cameroonian-born veteran teacher in Okon Clan, Eket Local Government Area, yesterday, Friday, October 16, 2026, to appreciate his contributions to his education and personal development.
Moore taught the governor French between 1975 and 1977, during his secondary school years.
During the visit, Eno expressed gratitude to his former teacher for the knowledge, discipline and values he imparted to him, noting that the lessons he received during his formative years helped shape his life.
The governor also commended the school’s alumni association for organising the event to celebrate and recognise the veteran educator.
Eno Reaffirms Commitment to Education
Governor Eno reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the standard of education in Akwa Ibom State.
He said that following the declaration of a state of emergency in the education sector, his administration was determined to raise educational standards and provide functional accommodation for teachers in secondary schools.
According to him, the proposed facilities would be similar to those provided in the model primary schools established by his administration across the state’s 31 local government areas.
The governor’s remarks underscored his administration’s focus on improving the learning environment and supporting teachers to deliver quality education.
Governor Calls for Inquiry Into Corps Member’s Death
Eno also expressed sadness over the death of a young Akwa Ibom State indigene serving with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Enugu State.
He promised to visit the bereaved family today, Saturday, October 17, 2026, and called on the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly to join the National Assembly in constituting an inquiry panel to determine the circumstances surrounding the Corps member’s death.
The governor’s position followed concerns surrounding the circumstances of the young corps member’s death at the NYSC orientation camp in Enugu.
Eno Urges Preservation of Indigenous Languages
The governor also encouraged the people of Akwa Ibom State to learn, speak and preserve their indigenous languages, describing them as an important part of the state’s cultural heritage.
He emphasised the need to sustain the languages for future generations and ensure that the state’s cultural identity remains protected.
Former Teacher Expresses Gratitude
In an emotional response, Moore expressed delight at receiving the governor, describing him as a former student who had risen to become the father of the state.
He praised Eno’s compassionate leadership and prayed for God’s continued blessings, wisdom and good health.
The veteran teacher said the governor’s visit and recognition had put a golden smile on his face.
Expressing his appreciation in French, he said, “Merci beaucoup,” meaning “Thank you very much.”
School Community, Alumni Commend Governor
Earlier, Professor Etiben Akpan welcomed the governor on behalf of the school community and commended his vision and achievements.
The president of the school’s alumni association, Mr Samuel Uko, also expressed appreciation to Eno for honouring their former teacher.
French teacher speaking on behalf of the governor’s entourage, Hon. Frank Archibong commended the gesture and assured Eno of the support of the people of Eket.
The Clan Head of Okon, HRH Akpabio Ekpoton, thanked the governor for visiting the rural community to honour his former teacher.
He described the visit as a demonstration of humility, gratitude and respect for those who contributed to one’s development.
The traditional ruler also prayed for the governor’s continued good health, strength and success in office.
The visit highlighted the importance of recognising teachers and appreciating their contributions to the lives of their former students, regardless of how much time has passed.
