Akwa Ibom State Ministry Of Women Affairs And Social Welfare, AKS.

01/11/2025

31/10/2025

NIGERIAN LEGION AKS INSTALLS NEW LEADERSHIP

The Nigerian Legion in Akwa Ibom State has ushered in a new leadership following a transparent and credible election process conducted at the Women Development Center, IBB Way, Uyo on October 30, 2025.

The event, which marked the dissolution of the previous executive and the inauguration of new officers, was attended by key stakeholders, including officials from the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare.

The Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hon. Mrs. Inibehe Silas Etukudo, congratulated the newly elected executive.

She praised the Nigerian Legion for adhering to principles of fairness, transparency and inclusiveness during the electoral process.

The Commissioner described the election as a significant step towards selecting capable and visionary leaders who will uphold the legacy of the organization and inspire future generations to serve with honour.

“The Nigerian Legion has long been a symbol of courage and patriotism, providing care, recognition and moral support to our veterans,” Hon. Mrs. Etukudo stated. “As new leaders are ushered in through democratic means, it is essential that the voices of our veterans are not only heard but also respected, with their welfare remaining central to our social agenda.”

The Commissioner who was represented by Barrister Nkechi Udoh, the Director of Economic Services Department further commended the electoral officers from Abuja, Mrs. Loretta Amadi and Mrs. Comfort Asiya, for their professionalism and integrity during the election process and reiterated the ministry’s commitment to collaborating with the Nigerian Legion to enhance welfare and economic empowerment for ex-service men and women as well as their widows across the state.

In his valedictory speech, outgoing State Chairman, Comrade Joseph Esu expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare and the management for their support throughout his tenure.

He also thanked the legionnaires for the opportunity to serve as their leader, praying for the success of the incoming administration.

The new leadership was sworn in during the ceremony, with Comrade Uwemedimo Bassey emerging as the State Chairman after securing 22 votes against his opponent, Comrade Imo Akpabio, who received eight votes.

Other elected officers were Comrade Edumoh Ekeredu as Vice State Chairman and Comrade Etim F. Okodi as State Treasurer, both elected unopposed.

Comrade Ubong Aniama was appointed as State Secretary.

In his acceptance speech, the Chairman, Comrade Uwemedimo Bassey pledged to foster patriotism, unity and civic engagement among legion members.

He emphasized his commitment to improving the welfare of members, promoting development initiatives, and advocating for the rights of veterans, widows and dependents.

He also called on the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare to support the new leadership in advancing the organization’s goals.

The election process was conducted in accordance with the Nigerian Legion Act No. 37 of 1988, with the guidelines read aloud by the returning officers from the Ministry of Defence, Abuja.

The event concluded with the swearing-in of the new executive, the presentation of certificates of return and a group photograph to commemorate the occasion.

The Nigerian Legion in Akwa Ibom State continues to play a vital role in preserving peace, ensuring the welfare of ex-service personnel, and fostering patriotism among its members.

The peaceful and transparent election signals a new era of dedicated leadership committed to service and national development.

29/10/2025

*AKSG Partners Caritas Nigeria to Support Vulnerable Populations*

The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare Akwa Ibom State, Hon. Mrs. Inibehe Silas Etukudo, has pledged to collaborate with the Catholic Caritas Foundation of Nigeria (CCFN) to enhance support for vulnerable populations within the state.

Hon. Mrs. Etukudo made this commitment during a courtesy visit from Caritas Nigeria representatives on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at her office.

She assured the delegation of her participation in the upcoming stakeholders’ roundtable meeting, emphasizing that Caritas Nigeria's vision aligns closely with that of the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, who prioritizes improving livelihoods at the grassroots.

The Commissioner highlighted various initiatives and programs led by the Ministry aimed at uplifting vulnerable groups, including care for five government homes, assistance for Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) and support for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) and child abuse.

She expressed the Ministry’s gratitude for potential partnership opportunities, reaffirming its commitment to being the voice for the vulnerable.

Earlier, Dr. Amana Effiong, Program Director of Caritas Nigeria, acknowledged the significant contributions of the Akwa Ibom State Government toward the protection and support of refugees and asylum seekers.

He commended the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare for establishing effective prevention and response mechanisms for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) and child abuse.

Dr. Effiong explained that Caritas Nigeria, a member of Caritas Internationalis—the humanitarian relief and development arm of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria—has been active in Nigeria since 2010. The organization expanded its operations to the South South region, including Akwa Ibom State, in 2017. Its focus is on ensuring that vulnerable populations, including refugees and displaced persons, have access to dignified livelihoods.

The delegation extended an invitation to Honorable Mrs. Etukudo to participate in the NGO’s stakeholders’ roundtable scheduled for Thursday, October 30, 2025, at Luton Park Hotel Hall, Uyo, which aims to foster further collaboration.

Caritas Nigeria presented a souvenir and its activities booklet, expressing enthusiasm for partnering with the Ministry to strengthen protection mechanisms and improve the welfare of refugees, orphans and vulnerable children (OVC), GBV survivors, and victims of child abuse in the state.

Members of the delegation during the advocacy visit included Program Manager Olubunm Fasogb, Legal Associate Blessing Akpadiaha, GBV Officer Tolatu David, Team Lead for Calabar Nwosu Humble, Team Lead for Akwa Ibom State Asari Nakanda, and Project Control Officer Sunday Matthew.

29/10/2025

‎IBA CONFER‎ENCE 2025 : Lady Helen Obareki Salutes Group's Entrepreneurial Drive
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‎... receives the award of 'Entrepreneurship Friendly Woman of the Year'
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‎The Ibom Beauticians Association has been commended for its entrepreneurial drive in the state especially in the area of providing support and mentorship for creatives within its ecosystem.
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‎The Coordinator of the office of the First Lady, Lady Helen Eno Obareki gave the commendation Monday, while delivering her remarks at the Ibom Beauticians Conference, Exhibition and Awards Summit 2025, which took place at Ibom Hall, Uyo.
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‎Represented at the event by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hon. Mrs. Inibehe Silas Etukudo, Lady Oberaki congratulated the Convener of the Conference, Sr. Aesthetician Helen Nsikak Ekong for passionately driving the entrepreneurial spirit which she said is in sync with the ARISE Agenda of the State government.
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‎She noted that by providing a platform for beauty experts and enthusiasts to share knowledge and network, the next generation of beauty entrepreneurs have been empowered with the resources needed to navigate the terrain with ease.
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‎"I commend the industry of the organizers of this novel conference, indeed you're helping the ARISE Agenda of the Governor to gain traction in the beauty world. Thank you, Mrs. Helen Ekong for this gathering. With the synergy I've seen today, I must say that this is a redefining moment for all beauty practitioners in this state," Lady Oberaki said.
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‎While thanking IBA for the award conferred on the Governor Pastor Umo Eno, a posthumous award on her mother, and herself, she promised to extend the support of her office in ensuring that the group's objectives are better interpreted.
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‎In her welcome speech, the Chairperson of Ibom Beauticians Association and Convener of the Ibom Beauticians Conference, Mrs. Helen Nsikak Ekong, said the group was birthed out of the urgent need to assemble all beauty practitioners in the state to collaborate, have a voice, network and as well share industry best ideas.
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‎She added that it was also a platform to mentor, educate and empower young minds within the space with seed funds and tools to kickstart their beauty journey, stating that being a beautician remains a dignifying role in the skill-based economy.
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‎In his tone setting, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Entrepreneurial Development , Mr. Ime Uwah, said it was encouraging to see a platform where all beauticians gather to share knowledge and empower themselves with the right information and business opportunities.
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‎He said the administration of Pastor Umo Eno places a high premium on entrepreneurial development and that it was his passion to build capacity among young and aspiring businesses in the state.
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‎The event which featured a lecture session on Business Branding by Sir Raphael Edem, panel sessions on beauty trends, exhibitions, also had awards given to deserving individuals in the state.

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23/10/2025

AKBC TV EXECUTIVE PAYS COURTESY VISIT TO COMMISSIONER MWASW

The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hon. Mrs. Inibehe Etukudo has commended the AKBC TV Chapel NUJ for prioritizing God in their affairs.

Mrs Etukudoh was speaking at her office where she played host to the chapel, who called to intimate her of their preparations for the end of the year thanksgiving.

While assuring the delegation of her attendance at the event, the commissioner also briefed them on various empowerment initiatives launched by Governor Umo Eno aimed at improving the lives of women in Akwa Ibom, emphasizing that the Governor prioritizes the welfare of the people beyond politics.

She also acknowledged Governor Umo Eno as a media-friendly leader.

" His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno has done so much for women in Akwa IBOM State, he is so detailed and compassionate about women matters" she said.

The Commissioner further stated that, the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare under her leadership will continue to work diligently to promote the ARISE Agenda of His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno.

Chairman of the AKBC Chapel of the NUJ, Comrade Eyakeno Paul, commended the commissioner for her efforts in aligning with Governor Umo Eno's vision of empowering women, children and vulnerable groups.

She also praised her dedication to caring for over 800 children across government-run homes in the state.

Comrade Paul extended an invitation to the commissioner to attend the chapel’s Thanksgiving service scheduled for December 14, 2025, at St. Michael's Catholic Church, Nsukara Offot, Uyo and expressed the chapel’s willingness to partner with the ministry to further promote women’s welfare.

The Director of Administration and Supplies, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Mrs. Affiong Nkom, thanked the delegation for honouring the Commissioner and making her their patron. She prayed that the collaboration between the ministry and the Chapel will lead to the betterment of the state and its citizens.

The highlight of the visit was the decoration of the Commissioner as a patron of the AKBC TV Chapel, signifying a strengthening of the partnership between the ministry and the chapel.

22/10/2025

GOVERNOR ENO FLAGS OFF CONSTRUCTION OF YOUTH-FRIENDLY CENTER IN NSIT ATAI

The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, has flagged off the construction of a state-of-the-art Youth-Friendly Center in Nsit Atai Local Government Area. This facility is designed to empower, equip, and engage young people for greater productivity and community development.

Represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hon. (Mrs.) Inibehe Silas Etukudo, the Governor described the project as a significant milestone in his administration’s youth employment and empowerment initiatives.

He explained that the center aligns with his Arise Agenda, specifically articles 5 and 6 of aspiration 2, which focus on wealth creation, employment generation, and human capacity development.

According to him, the new facility will feature a fully equipped ICT hub, co-working spaces, solar-powered electricity, a recreation lounge, coffee shop, game center, and an e-library—all aimed at fostering innovation, skills acquisition, and entrepreneurship among the youth.

“This youth-friendly center is for the benefit of all youths in Nsit Atai, regardless of political affiliation or personal interest. It will serve as a catalyst for creativity, productivity, and economic empowerment,” the Governor stated.

In his remarks, the Chairman of Nsit Atai, Prince Anthony Nyong, commended the Governor for the initiative and pledged the local government’s continued partnership with the state government for the overall good of the community. He also announced that preparations are underway for the commissioning of the new Nsit Atai Secretariat, which is currently under construction. He assured the Governor that Nsit Atai youths will support and collaborate with the contractor to ensure the project is completed on time.

The Project Contractor, Mr. Emmanuel Okon, Managing Director of E-Plus Project Limited, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to handle the project. He described it as a privilege to contribute to his community’s development and pledged to deliver the facility within specifications and on schedule, in appreciation of the confidence reposed in him by the Governor.

In separate goodwill messages, the Member representing Nsit Atai in the State House of Assembly, Hon. Prince-Aniefiok Attah, appreciated the Governor for prioritizing Nsit Atai among the first ten Local Government Areas benefiting from the youth development initiative. He assured the Governor and the contractor of a peaceful, supportive environment to facilitate timely project completion. He further lauded Pastor Eno for consistently including Nsit Atai in his development agenda and declared unwavering support for his re-election in 2027.

The Chairman of the Nsit Atai Elders Council, Prof. Trenchard Ibia, also expressed gratitude, noting that Nsit Atai has once again been prioritized for developmental projects, including oil palm initiatives.

Mrs. Grace Mfon, the woman leader of the APC in Nsit Atai, alongside the chapter Chairman, Hon. Ntiabong Essien, thanked the Governor for the project, describing it as a unifying initiative that will promote peace and create jobs. They assured him of full support for his re-election bid in 2027.

Former Commissioner for Economic Development, Hon. Lawrence Udosen, applauded the Governor’s developmental strides in Nsit Atai and called for the establishment of a women’s development center to complement the youth facility.

Similarly, the Vice Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Comrade Ubong Ammanam, described the project as the first of its kind in the state—an innovative hub that will serve as a rallying point for unity, creativity, and youth employment.

The Paramount Ruler of Nsit Atai, His Royal Majesty, Prophet Okon Peter Effiong, expressed gratitude to the Governor for bringing governance closer to the people. He urged the youth to shun crime and embrace the Governor’s vision for youth development, while calling on parents to guide their children towards responsible living.

The highlight of the ceremony was the laying of the foundation stone for the Youth-Friendly Center by the representative of the Governor, Hon. Mrs. Inibehe Silas Etukudo.

This event marks another milestone in Governor Umo Eno’s commitment to building a prosperous, innovative, and youth-driven Akwa Ibom State. The occasion was attended by a large gathering of government officials, traditional rulers, women’s groups, and youths.

15/10/2025

Gov.Umo Eno is a gender sensitive governor...

15/10/2025

An Excerpt from today's interview session with the Commissioner Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare.

15/10/2025

WOMEN AFFAIRS BOSS CELEBRATES RURAL WOMEN, COMMENDS GOVERNOR UMO ENO’S EMPOWERMENT INITIATIVE

The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Mrs Inibehe Etukudo has lauded rural women in the state for their resilience and contributions toward the development of rural communities in the state.

Speaking during an interview at her office with the ARISE Update Radio Crew, Mrs Etukudo expressed deep appreciation for the pivotal roles played by rural women in sustaining families, communities and the state’s economy.

Etukudo who stated this in commemoration of this year's International Day of Rural Women, maintained,
“This day means a lot to me and Akwa Ibom State, because our women have continued to play vital roles in the family, the church, the market, and the state at large. Everything we eat, every green field we see, is made possible by these hard working rural women,” she stated.

The Commissioner who commended governor Umo Eno for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the empowerment of women, especially at the grassroots level,
highlighted the numerous empowerment initiatives undertaken by the governor under the Arise Agenda, which she noted, had transformed the lives of women across the 31 Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom.

She enumerated some of the initiatives as, provision of agricultural grants and inputs; vehicles for women entrepreneurs, and the construction of Arise Compassionate Homes for indigent women who previously had no shelter; unimpeded access to rural healthcare services, as well as construction of model primary schools across the 31 local government areas of the state.

“Through His Excellency’s interventions, many women who once had nowhere to lay their heads now live in fully furnished homes." She affirmed.

The Commissioner noted that the Ministry has continued to complement the governor’s efforts by providing start-up funds ranging from ₦50,000 to ₦100,000 to support small-scale businesses owned by women, while also catering for over 500 children in five government homes.

She further disclosed that Gender-Based Violence (GBV) has recorded a significant decline in the state due to sustained sensitization, community outreach, and the establishment of social welfare offices in all the local government areas.

“We now have more people speaking up and more cases being tackled promptly. Our social workers are stationed at the grassroots to ensure that survivors receive timely help and justice."

While acknowledging the relentless contributions of women in the maintenance of their homes, Etukudo reaffirmed her ministry's unwavering commitment in supporting rural women through empowerment programmes, social welfare initiatives, and advocacy for gender equality, in line with the vision of governor Umo Eno’s administration.