Abia First Lady Champions Women Empowerment at International Women’s Day, Unveils Major Support Initiatives

The Wife of Abia State Governor, Mrs. Priscillia Otti, has reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to advancing women empowerment.

Speaking during the International Women’s Day celebration in Umuahia on Tuesday, Mrs Otti announced a series of economic and social initiatives aimed at improving the livelihoods of women across the state.

The Governor’s wife, represented by the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs Adaeze Emetu commended women for their resilience and contributions to society.

She emphasised that the present administration in the State remains dedicated to protecting and empowering women at all levels.

The Abia first lady praised women for their roles as leaders, caregivers, entrepreneurs, and community builders, noting that their impact, though sometimes unrecognized, is deeply felt.

She also acknowledged the support of spouses of public officials at the grassroots level, describing their contributions as vital to governance and social stability.

Reflecting on the theme of the event, “Give to Gain,” Mrs. Otti stressed the importance of investing in women as a pathway to societal progress.

“When we invest in women, we multiply impact. When we give women opportunity, we gain dignity. When we give women a voice, we gain a stronger society,” Mrs Otti said.

She highlighted persistent challenges facing women, including limited access to capital, vulnerability to exploitation, and systemic barriers, noting that empowerment was essential in addressing them.

“When opportunity is absent, vulnerability increases. This is why empowerment is not optional – it is essential,” she stated.

The governor’s wife announced several initiatives, including support for 200 indigenous farmers with agricultural inputs and financial assistance of ₦100,000 for petty traders.

She also revealed plans to train 200 women in vocational skills such as fashion, food processing, and hairdressing through the Safe Tenth Care Initiative, in partnership with the National Directorate of Employment.

“We are not just giving money; we are building sustainable livelihoods,” she said.

Mrs Otti also highlighted efforts to protect women, including the establishment of a Sexual Assault Referral Centre to provide medical, psychosocial, and legal support for survivors.

Mrs. Otti used the occasion to call on women to actively engage in the electoral process, urging them to take part in voter registration as well as support fellow women seeking elective positions at all levels.

“If you are not at the table where decisions are made, you may find yourself on the menu. We need women at that table,” she said.

In her remarks, Commissioner for women affairs, Mrs Maureen Aghukwa emphasised the need for women to overcome fear and pursue justice.

Mrs Aghukwa called on all stakeholders including the government, civic society, traditional and religious leaders to play advocacy roles as well as contribute resources to empowerment initiatives that support women.

Keynote speaker, Dr. Ezinne Otuka noted that empowering women socially, economically, and politically leads to stronger families, thriving communities, and a more prosperous society.

Delivering a lecture, Chief judge of the State represented by Mrs Enyidiya Uma Onwuta called for collective action to improve access to justice for women and girls.

She noted that cultural, economic, and systemic barriers still hinder many from seeking redress and reaffirmed government commitment to dismantling these obstacles and ensuring that every woman and girl can exercise her rights without fear.

The Eagle News reports that the International Women’s Day is held annually on March 8 and this year’s theme is ” Give to Gain, Invest More to Gain More.”