Akwa Ibom women have been encouraged to be intentional about their personal and collective growth by empowering themselves with the knowledge, confidence and skills needed to become change agents, policy makers and defenders of justice in the society.
The Akwa Ibom State First Lady Designate, Lady Helen Eno Obareki, shared the message during the Essien Udim Women’s Summit tagged “Becoming a Complete Woman” which took place at the Essien Udim Local Government Council Secretariat.
Represented by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hon. Inibehe Silas, the First Lady Designate emphasised that women, who are not only caregivers at home but also serve as the heartbeat of the society, must harness their voices, ideas, resilience, and strength to step into leadership roles whenever the opportunity arises.
Lady Obareki commended the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, for his commitment to women-focused policies in areas such as governance, maternal healthcare, girl-child education, women empowerment and the fight against Gender-Based Violence, ensuring that no woman is left behind.
She reminded the women of the importance of instilling morals and values by raising children who are loving, respectful, disciplined and confident in their communities.
In her welcome address, the wife of the Chairman of Essien Udim Local Government Council, Mrs Ofonime Usoro, expressed that the summit, tagged “Becoming a Complete Woman” was designed to sensitise women on how to address issues related to their homes, health and finances, while also preparing them for the future.
She said 150 women selected from all the wards in the Local Government Area would be enlightened on general health challenges, menopausal Syndrome, building successful homes, principles of prudent financial management and ethics and moral behaviour.
Also in his address, the Chairman of Essien Udim Local Government Council, Hon. Ntiedo Usoro, stated that the event is not only a celebration of the strength and resilience of women but also a call to action to empower them with the tools and opportunities necessary for success in education, entrepreneurial development, and political participation.
Goodwill messages were received from notable personalities, including the member representing Ikot Ekpene/Essien Udim/Obot Akara Federal Constituency – Dr. Patrick Umoh, the member representing Essien Udim in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly – Prince Ukpong Akpabio, the Special Assistant to the Senate President on Women Matters – Obongawan Obonodo Uko, the acting Managing Director of Ibom Power – Engr. Camillus Umoh, wife of the Commissioner for Transport – Dr. Umoh Luke and WALGON led by the wife of the Chairman of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Council – Mrs Affiong Nkom.
