Abi LGA champions women’s empowerment with financial aid and vocational support

• Published On: 09 March 2025 at 21:39

On March 8, 2025, the Executive Chairman of Abi Local Government Area, Hon. Egbala Bassey, and his wife, Mrs. Eka Egbala Bassey, led a spectacular commemoration of International Women's Day 2025. The event, held at the Abi Local Government Secretariat in Itigidi, was themed "Accelerate Action," highlighting the critical role that women play in driving community progress and societal change.

Mrs. Eka Egbala Bassey, the First Lady of Abi LGA, delivered a heartfelt address on behalf of the First Lady of Cross River State, Her Excellency, Bishop Dr. Eyoanwan Bassey Otu. Mrs. Bassey praised the women of Abi for their resilience and dedication, encouraging them to pursue entrepreneurship and skill development as a means of achieving financial independence. She emphasised women's transformative potential in both their homes and communities, encouraging proactive participation in productive endeavours.

In his keynote speech, Hon. Egbala Bassey highlighted the global significance of International Women's Day, describing women as "a divine gift to humanity." Reflecting on the theme "Accelerate Action," he advocated for an immediate and coordinated effort to empower women by providing them with the tools and opportunities they need to make meaningful contributions to community development.

He also emphasised that his administration's policies are based on women's empowerment, noting that the 2025 budget prioritises initiatives aimed at financial assistance, vocational training, and other capacity-building programs to promote economic self-sufficiency.


Hon. Bassey passionately reminded the women of their importance to the stability and success of their homes, urging them to recognise and harness their inherent power to shape the community's future. He reassured them that his administration is committed to creating an environment in which women can thrive in all aspects of life.

Several prominent dignitaries attended the event, including the Vice Chairman of the Council, Hon. Joseph Ukata, the Council Secretary, Dr. Jeremiah Ani, and female Supervisors, namely Mrs. Joy Soniwa Ekom (Supervisor for Finance) and Mrs. Blessing Edwin (Supervisor for Health), 8th ABI Legislative Council. Key appointees of the Council, such as the Special Adviser on Women Affairs, also contributed to the occasion, signalling the collective commitment to

Over 500 women, including market traders and people with disabilities, were empowered during the day, which was a particularly moving moment. The recipients received much-needed financial assistance, food supplies such as rice and beans, and necessary items such as clothing and materials to help them run their businesses and improve their livelihoods. This tangible support demonstrates the administration's unwavering commitment to improving the socioeconomic well-being of women in the LGA.

Finally, the International Women's Day 2025 celebration in Abi LGA demonstrated the administration's unwavering commitment to gender equality, economic empowerment, and the overall improvement of women's well-being. By adopting the theme "Accelerate Action," the event reaffirmed its commitment to empowering women and ensuring their active role in shaping a better future for all.