Abia First Lady Leads Charge for Inclusive Growth through Women Empowerment

The Wife of the Governor of Abia State, Mrs Priscilla Otti has led a renewed push for inclusive economic development with the launch of women’s empowerment programme, positioning it as a key driver of poverty reduction and sustainable growth.

The First Lady set the tone on Wednesday at the launch of Ahiaoma Market Women Empowerment, held at Micheal Okpara Auditorium Umuahia, stressing that investing in women delivers significant economic returns and long-term societal benefits.

“When women earn income, up to 90 percent is reinvested into the economy, and companies can see returns of 30 to 40 percent more,” she said.

“Investing in women is not just a social intervention, it is a smart economic strategy.”

She described the initiative as a decisive step towards a more inclusive and resilient state.

“This is not just about launching a programme, it is about building a future where women can thrive economically and contribute meaningfully to development,” she added.

The programme will support 200 women in its first phase with financial grants, business training, and access to enterprise support, while also addressing broader challenges such as limited infrastructure and market access.

Plans are underway to introduce an Agri-Market Reform to reduce post-harvest losses and improve earnings for women in agriculture.

“We are protecting their income, stabilising their livelihoods, and ensuring that their hard work truly pays off,” she said, noting that empowerment must go beyond finance to include health, safety, and social support systems.

“When we invest in women, we transform families and communities,” the First Lady concluded. “Together, we are building a more inclusive, resilient, and prosperous future.”

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs Ngozi Blessing Felix reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting vulnerable groups through sustainable initiatives.

“As a ministry, our responsibility is to reduce poverty, protect vulnerable groups, and create opportunities for sustainable livelihoods,” she said. “This programme will help women improve their incomes and move forward with renewed confidence.”

Mrs Ngozi urged beneficiaries to take full advantage of the initiative and called for continued collaboration among stakeholders to ensure long-term impact.

A representative of Signature Bank, Jonathan Obiloye, highlighted the importance of financial literacy and discipline in sustaining business growth.

“You need to earn money wisely, save consistently, and invest carefully,” he said. “Avoid schemes that promise quick returns. If you are not careful, you can lose everything you have worked for.”

He encouraged participants to adopt budgeting practises and prioritise essential spending. “Saving reduces financial stress and builds confidence. Focus on your needs and grow your business steadily,” he added.

Also, a representative of the Bank of Industry, Rose Ako emphasised the importance of access to finance and proper financial records for business expansion.

Rose urged participants to formalise their businesses through proper banking channels, noting that strong financial records improve access to credit and long-term growth opportunities.

The event drew stakeholders from the government and the financial sector, all of whom underscored the importance of empowering women as a pathway to economic transformation.