Bola Tinubu has assured Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, that he will not regret joining the All Progressives Congress.

The ruling party rolled out the red carpet to receive the governor into its fold on Saturday.

Tinubu who was represented by the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, at a grand reception held at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, praised Eno’s decision as a bold and strategic move.

He emphasised that the APC remained committed to unity, inclusion, and progress, assuring the governor of full support.

“Mr. President, ask me to assure you personally, no one will question your place here. The party is your home. You will not be humiliated. You will not be forsaken. We are your brothers and sisters in the high tide.

“We rise with the low ebbs, we ride together, and we rise together, and we protect those who put us through fire and plot. That is why, 10 years on, despite all odds, we remain the party to beat.”

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, and at least 24 governors of the APC, attended the ceremony.

Akpabio hailed Eno’s defection as an act of statesmanship, saying it signalled a wider shift of South-South states into the APC.

 “This is not just a political move; it is a historic alignment for development and national integration,” Akpabio said.

He also urged Tinubu to support key infrastructure projects in Akwa Ibom, including the long-sought Ibom Deep Seaport.

 “We are bringing capacity, competence, and loyalty to the APC,” Akpabio added.

Ganduje described Eno’s move as a shift from “political isolation to national relevance,” applauding the governor for bringing his entire political structure and followers into the APC.

He urged existing members to treat Eno and his supporters as returning brothers.

Speaking at the event, Eno said his decision was driven by the need to secure federal support for critical development projects.

“We are not afraid of the future. We have taken this bold step to align Akwa Ibom with the centre for the good of our people,” he said.

He added that his commitment to the ARISE Agenda remains firm and reassured residents that he remains a governor for all Akwa Ibom people, irrespective of political affiliation.

“Let us not focus on partisanship but partnership. Let us sheathe our swords and build one strong, united APC in Akwa Ibom,” he said.