Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has appealed to leaders across all levels in Nigeria to adopt people-centred approach to public service irrespective of political leanings.

The governor said approach would help in addressing the socio-economic challenges rocking the nation.

He made the call at the Centenary Anniversary Celebration of the Yoruba Tennis Club in Onikan, Lagos, themed, ‘Democracy and the Imperative of Good Governance: Renewing Hope in Challenging Times’.

Eno stressed that leadership must go beyond political promises to delivering tangible socio-economic benefits while rebuilding citizens’ confidence in public institutions through transparency, accountability and responsible governance.

”Leadership has gone beyond political promises. Sustainable development requires a deliberate commitment to policies that place citizens at the centre of governance, particularly in addressing poverty and creating opportunities for economic advancement,” he said.

While harping on the need for systemic renewal across the country, the governor urged political leaders to rise above regional and partisan interests, advocating for a governance approach driven by compassion, fairness and a commitment to serving humanity.

Also speaking at the event, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, commended the Yoruba Tennis Club for its contribution to national conversations and for sustaining its legacy as a platform for civic engagement and intellectual discourse since its establishment in 1926.