Governors Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and Pastor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom have been recognized as Nigeria’s most beloved sub-national leaders for 2024, according to a recent leadership perception poll conducted by the Nigeria Social Media Week Group (NSG).
The findings were revealed during the NSG’s first-quarter roundtable session in Abuja. Governor Makinde retained his position as Nigeria’s “Most Loved” and “Most Admired” Governor, thanks to his accessible leadership style and key initiatives, such as the Fasola Agribusiness Industrial Hub.
These efforts, which have significantly boosted Oyo State’s economic activity, earned him high praise from the survey’s respondents.
“Governor Makinde was rated as the most accessible, nationally admired, and resourceful governor,” said Dr. Mark Audu, NSG’s Team Lead for 2025. “He scored highest on initiatives that have significantly boosted investment and economic activity in Oyo State.”
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom was named the “Most Inspiring” state executive in the country. His leadership during personal hardships, including the recent loss of his wife, Pastor Patience Umo Eno, earned him widespread admiration.
Eno’s administration’s ARISE Agenda, focused on youth mentorship, entrepreneurship, education, and infrastructure development, was also highlighted in the report as a key factor in his popularity.
“Governor Eno’s ability to maintain stability, stay connected to the people, and inspire hope even during trying moments captured the hearts of many respondents nationwide,” Dr. Audu noted.
The rankings were based on a survey targeting youth communities and digital civil society organizations across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones, with areas like leadership accessibility, performance, public engagement, and long-term impact being assessed.