…as Govt reiterates commitment to gender inclusion and grassroots development
The Akwa Ibom State Government has unveiled plans to celebrate International Women’s Day and launch the Town Hall Meeting in Abak Federal Constituency as part of efforts to enhance grassroots development and promote gender inclusion.
Speaking on Thursday at a joint press briefing held at the Government House Press Centre, the Commissioner for Information, Hon. Aniekan Umanah, disclosed that the Town Hall Meeting, scheduled for Saturday, March 8, 2025, at the Abak Township Stadium, will serve as a platform for the people of Abak Federal Constituency, comprising Abak, Etim Ekpo, and Ika to present their needs to the Governor for consideration and integration into the 2026 budgeting process.
The Commissioner further announced that the Governor will commence the disbursement of N2 billion to farmers , N2 Billion Naira to traders and provide business grants to selected beneficiaries during the event.
Umanah emphasized the state government’s commitment to teamwork, gender inclusivity, and grassroots development, in line with Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda.
“This is the spirit in which we will function, we will work as a team to deliver results as expected by the Governor. Whatever it takes to fulfill the mandate of the ARISE Agenda of His Excellency, the Governor, we will work together to achieve it. The state government is gender-friendly, and Governor Umo Eno’s administration is deliberate and strategic in ensuring women are included in the governance process.”
Speaking on the Federal Constituency Town Hall initiative, Umanah stated, “Every constituency will present its NEEDS document to the Governor. This is what we in Abak Federal Constituency will submit, outlining our priorities. The Governor will hold an interactive session with the people to understand their needs directly.”
He added that “The disbursement of N2 billion to farmers will begin in Abak on Saturday. The Governor will distribute the funds to farmers in the Federal Constituency. Additionally, business grants of N5 million will be awarded, with two beneficiaries selected per local government area.”
The event will also include a symbolic presentation of equipment support to selected beneficiaries, while the full-scale distribution across the state is scheduled for March 11, 2025.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Inibehe Silas, outlined activities planned for the International Women’s Day celebration, themed “Accelerate Action”, taking place on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at Ibom Hall. She emphasized that this year’s theme highlights the urgency of achieving gender parity and advancing women’s equality worldwide.
She further noted that the event seeks to inspire individuals, organizations, and communities to take swift and decisive action in addressing systemic barriers and biases against women.
“It is a call to accelerate progress and create a more inclusive and equitable society for all. The event will feature a march-past, women empowerment programs, and other activities.”
In his remarks, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Ekerette Udo, reaffirmed his office’s commitment to partnering with the media in amplifying the success stories of the ARISE Agenda.
“We will continue to document the golden pages of Akwa Ibom’s progress. We are here to work with the media and look forward to deepening our collaboration.”
While congratulating the Information Commissioner on his appointment, Mr. Ekerette described Aniekan Umanah as highly qualified for the role.
The State Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Amos Etuk, assured that the media community in the state is fully prepared to provide extensive coverage of the upcoming events.
The press briefing was attended by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Akparawa James Edet; Press Secretary in the Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Uduak Ekong; Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Research and Documentation, Dr. Essien Ndueso; Director of Information, Aniekan Ukpong; , media aides and members of the media community.
