…tasks group to creatively explore ways of engaging rural women economically
The wife of Akwa Ibom State Governor, Her Excellency Dr. (Mrs.) Martha Udom Emmanuel has called on the newly sworn-in State chapter executives of National Council of Women’s Societies (NCWS) to institute economic programmes that will further embolden women at the grassroots to lead productive lives.
She said if women are to achieve meaningful progress in all facades, continuous sustainable development programmes must be birthed to tackle the root causes of poverty in rural areas.
Dr. Emmanuel gave the charge on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, when she received in audience the state President of NCWS, Hon. Idongesit Okoko who led other members of her executive on a courtesy visit to government house, Uyo.
She mentioned the fact that world over, the place of women in nation building, peace and development have been recognized, averring that more grounds however, still need to be covered for the complete emancipation of the womenfolk.
The first lady, who noted that she was impressed with the lofty programmes embarked upon by the current executives barely few months in office, urged them to sustain the tempo for the benefit of all women irrespective of tribe or faith.
“I must say that I am impressed by your clear cut vision since coming on board. Without waiting for any support, you have set the ball rolling by engaging in activities that promote the welfare of women, I am encouraging you to sustain the tempo”, said Dr. Emmanuel.
On the raging violence against women in the state, Mrs. Emmanuel said the Council should liaise with the State Ministry of Women Affairs to set up modalities to sensitize and educate rural women on their rights as enshrined in the VAPP law, stating that women are being abused on daily basis for lack of knowledge of the law.
The governor’s wife also sued for peace and love within the group, saying as an umbrella body of women groups in the country, they are saddled with the responsibility of fostering unity and harmony amongst women.
Earlier in her remarks, the State President of National Council for Women Societies (NCWS), Hon. Idongesit Okoko, while thanking Mrs. Emmanuel for her continuous motherly support to the group, said they were very proud to identify with her success in office as governor’s wife.
Okoko noted that the primary objective of NCWS was to promote the economic, social welfare and progress of women, youths, children and the physically challenged with special emphasis on education, vocational training, entrepreneurial education and empowerment.
While enumerating on the projects carried out by her executive, she stressed the Council’s effort to replicate practical socio-economic support for women, and stated that she was ready to partner with the governor’s wife to enhance women’s lives at the grassroots.
