IWD: Eno donates 15 Mini Buses to A/Ibom Female Commercial Drivers
Uko Okon, Uyo
Akwa Ibom Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has approved the immediate disbursement of 15 mini buses to female commercial drivers in the state.
The mini buses will be handed over to all female drivers registered under the Akwa Ibom State Female Commercial Drivers Association.
Eno, who gave the directive on Saturday in Uyo during the 2025 International Women’s Day Commemoration. He expressed delight at seeing women venture into areas of skills formerly dominated by men.
Eno stated that his administration has laid the foundation for inclusive governance, where women have been given significant roles in the power equation.
“The rights and privileges of women have been protected by laws that criminalize gender-based violence and other discriminatory practices.
“We have taken bold and decisive steps to prosecute those who engage in gender-based violence, such as rape, wife battering, and other morally reprehensible acts against women, the Governor said.
Eno pledged to continue supporting women to accelerate and succeed, noting that through the Ibom Leadership and Entrepreneurial Centre, his administration has provided jobs to over 800 female youths and will release ₦750,000 to each trainee.
He also promised to equip a female automobile repair trainee who will graduate in May with the necessary tools and resources to establish her career successfully.
Mrs. Helen Eno-Obareki, Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, described Governor Umo Eno as a gender-friendly leader who prioritises women’s inclusion in governance.
“Under Governor Eno’s administration, women have been actively involved in leadership positions, with four women appointed into the State Executive Council, five female chairmen, 26 female vice executive council members, and over 130 female councillors and supervisors across various local government areas.”
Mrs. Eno-Obareki emphasised the importance of empowering women in leadership, promoting gender equality in education, and taking a stand against gender-based violence.
She noted that Governor Eno’s administration actively drives these causes, ensuring women are not sidelined in governance and economic opportunities.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Mrs. Inibehe Etukudo, welcomed the Governor, government officials, and Akwa Ibom women to the event.
She stated that the 2025 International Women’s Day is a time to reflect and celebrate the incredible contributions of women in all spheres of life, noting that the theme “Accelerate Action” is a powerful call to action towards advancing gender equality and empowering women and girls to realize their full potentials.
Our correspondent reports that the event featured a march-past by women and an exhibition of agricultural products from all Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom State.
