Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has gifted a brand-new car and ₦5 million to a newlywed couple, Abigail Edet and Kevin Etiemana, during their traditional marriage ceremony and reception in Uyo.
The wedding, held on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at Ibom Hall, attracted attention after the governor announced the generous gifts, describing the occasion as a celebration of love, hope and a new beginning.
Abigail’s story makes the gesture particularly touching. She was abandoned at birth and raised at the Akwa Ibom State Government-owned Special Children’s Home in Uyo, where she grew up alongside other children under the care of the institution.
Governor Eno, who attended the ceremony as Father of the Day, expressed happiness at seeing Abigail start a family of her own after the difficult circumstances surrounding her birth.
In a statement shared following the wedding, the governor said: “Abigail, who was abandoned at birth and raised at our Special Children’s Home, has today been blessed with a family of her own.”
He added that her journey was a reminder that a person’s circumstances of birth do not determine their future or destiny.
The governor explained that the car and ₦5 million were presented to the couple to support them as they began their married life.
“As a demonstration of our love and support, I presented the couple with a brand-new car and ₦5 million to help them begin their marital journey,” he said.
Beyond the gifts, Eno also offered marriage advice to the newlyweds, urging Kevin to love, protect and cherish his wife. He specifically warned against domestic violence, asking the groom to treat Abigail with care and make her happy.
He also encouraged Abigail to honour and support her husband as they build their home together, while reminding her not to forget the children she grew up with at the Special Children’s Home.
The wedding marks another significant milestone in Abigail’s life. In December 2025, Governor Eno had reportedly granted her automatic employment into the Akwa Ibom State Civil Service after meeting her during a visit to the children’s home and learning about her background.
Her journey from being abandoned at birth to receiving care and support at a government institution, securing public-sector employment and eventually getting married has drawn attention from Nigerians, many of whom have described her story as inspiring.
The governor’s latest gesture has further highlighted the relationship between Abigail and the state government, with Eno describing her wedding as an occasion worthy of celebration and support.
The story has also generated conversations about the importance of caring for vulnerable children and creating opportunities for those who grow up without parental support.
For Abigail and Kevin, however, the occasion was first and foremost the beginning of their life together. With a brand-new car, ₦5 million in support and the governor’s public goodwill, the couple now enter married life with an unexpected show of generosity.
Their story has become a reminder that a difficult beginning does not have to define the rest of a person’s life.
