Former presidential aide and past legislator, Senator Ita Enang, has expressed his gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio following his nomination as a non-career ambassador.
Enang characterized the nomination as a significant honor, underscoring what he sees as Akwa Ibom State’s increasing importance on the national stage.
In a statement released from Abuja, Enang conveyed his appreciation to both President Tinubu and Senate President Akpabio, as well as the people of Akwa Ibom State, for their support.
“Regarding my nomination for an ambassadorial role, I, along with my family, constituents, and political allies, extend our deepest and most sincere thanks to His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu, and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, for this extraordinary privilege. I pledge to give my best throughout the entire process,” he stated.
Addressing political concerns within Akwa Ibom, Enang defended Senate President Akpabio’s relationship with the people of the state, emphasizing Akpabio’s role in enhancing Akwa Ibom’s national standing.
“To the people of Akwa Ibom, and especially the Ibibio Nation, I want to clearly state that the Senate President has never held any segment of our population in contempt, diminished our respect, or denied us what we deserve.
“On the contrary, he has shown exemplary leadership, remarkable inclusiveness, and a steadfast dedication to bringing every part of our state along,” Enang affirmed.
He emphasized that Akpabio’s influence in national politics has strategically positioned Akwa Ibom, asserting the state must acknowledge the value of having one of its own in the nation’s third-highest political office.
Enang also disclosed his close collaboration with Akpabio and the Minister of Petroleum (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, on crucial APC and developmental decisions. This included securing the allocation of N10 billion in the 2025 budget for the Nkari Dam in Ini and the Itu/Ibiono Dam in Ibiono Ibom.
“If any misunderstandings occurred, I take full responsibility because I was present at his invitation during those discussions,” he added.
Enang appealed for unity in support of both Akpabio and Governor Umo Eno, aiming to advance the state’s collective interests.
“Therefore, I urge all our people to unite firmly behind the Senate President and Governor Umo Eno as they jointly guide our state towards a future of promise, progress, and prosperity for everyone,” he stated, also requesting prayers as he proceeds through the nomination process.
Senate Review of Ambassadorial Nominees
The Senate formally received President Tinubu’s request for the confirmation of 65 ambassadorial nominees. This represents one of the most extensive diplomatic submissions made under the current administration.
The request, formally presented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during a plenary session, includes 34 career ambassadors and high commissioners, alongside 31 non-career nominees.
This submission occurred shortly after lawmakers initiated the screening process for an initial group of three nominees.
President Tinubu, referencing Section 171 subsections 1, 2, and 4 of the 1999 Constitution, urged the Senate to promptly consider and confirm all nominees.
Key Nominees
The list of non-career nominees features several prominent individuals:
- Former Army Chief, Lt. Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau (Ret.)
- Former Naval Chief, Vice Admiral Ibas Ibok-Ete (Ret.)
- Ita Enang, previously Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters
Akpabio immediately delegated the list to the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, instructing them to finalize screenings and submit their report within a week.
“The committee is expected to provide their report to us within one week,” he stated.
