By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
The Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady of Akwa Ibom, Mrs. Helen Eno Obareki, has called for more work to completely eradicate gender disparity in society.
Speaking at the 2025 International Women’s Day celebration in Uyo on Thursday, Obareki acknowledged the progress made but emphasized that there is still much to be done.
She expressed regret that girls are still being denied access to education in some parts of the country, while women continue to face challenges in securing leadership roles.
The First Lady Designate commended the strides made by women in Akwa Ibom under the administration of Governor Umo Eno but called for continued efforts to ensure women are given equal rights and opportunities.
“In various parts of the world, including Nigeria, setbacks persist. Girls are still denied access to quality education, and women remain underrepresented in leadership roles,” she said. “This casts a shadow on our celebration and reminds us of the need to recommit ourselves to accelerating action. Every woman, regardless of background, where she lives, or the religion she follows, should have the opportunity to thrive.”
Obareki highlighted the efforts of the Golden Initiative for All (GIFA) in giving women a voice in society through empowerment programs and advocacy against Gender-Based Violence.
“As an organization, GIFA has been instrumental in empowering women and supporting vulnerable groups. We are committed to providing life-saving opportunities to women in our state. By God’s grace, in the coming weeks, we will continue to use our channels to enhance the dignity of women in multiple ways,” she said.
Governor Umo Eno, in his goodwill message, commended women for their innate nurturing abilities and pledged to continue fostering an inclusive government. He highlighted the numerous appointments made in his administration to ensure women are given premium recognition and opportunities.
The Governor also reaffirmed his commitment to supporting women and inspiring them to greatness. He assured that the Office of the First Lady would be empowered to act decisively against all forms of Gender-Based Violence and other harmful practices affecting women.
Governor Eno announced the empowerment of 15 female drivers under the Akwa Ibom State Female Commercial Drivers Association, providing them with 15 new mini-buses for their transportation businesses. He also directed the Ministries of Women Affairs and Youth Development to collaborate and provide a young female automobile electrician with a workshop and tools after completing her internship in May.
In her keynote address, retired Permanent Secretary Mrs. Bassey Eshiet strongly condemned harmful cultural practices such as female genital mutilation, child marriage, and gender-based discrimination in land and property inheritance. She encouraged women to seize opportunities in education and modern technology.
The event also featured a march-past by women and an exhibition of agricultural products from all the Local Councils.
