The administration of Governor Umo Eno has allocated 40 per cent of political appointments in Akwa Ibom State to women, a move described as unprecedented in the political history of the state.
The state Deputy Governor, Akon Eyakenyi, disclosed this on Sunday during a thanksgiving service held at the Apostolic Church in Uyo to mark the 2026 International Women’s Day and the successful conclusion of the women sensitisation tour on civic responsibilities across the 31 local government areas of the state.
Eyakenyi said the 40 percent representation of women in political appointments surpasses the 35 percent benchmark recommended at the fourth world conference on women.
Speaking on the 2026 global theme: “Rights, Justice and Action,” the deputy governor stressed that protecting the rights of women contributes significantly to peace and stability in families and society.
She urged women to mentor younger generations by instilling moral values and a strong sense of responsibility.
According to her, the state government has effectively implemented the principles of the Beijing Declaration, which advocates increased political participation for women.
“For the first time in the history of the state, after 35 years, a woman is standing before you as an elected deputy governor,” she said.
She added that women now occupy several key leadership positions in the state, including chief judge, head of service, commissioners, local government chairpersons, vice chairpersons, supervisors, and aides to the Governor.
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“In every appointed position, Governor Umo Eno gives specific instructions and follows up to ensure women get their slots.
“Today in Akwa Ibom State, we have 40 percent inclusion, surpassing the 35 percent benchmark recommended at the Beijing Conference,” Eyakenyi stated.
She also commended the governor for initiatives aimed at strengthening economic empowerment for women, maintaining security, and enforcing policies against gender-based violence.
Eyakenyi further revealed that provisions had been made in the state’s 2026 budget to empower women through cooperative societies across the 31 local government areas.
“When you empower a woman, you empower a whole community. The children and extended family benefit as well. What is left is for us women to arise and pursue our dreams with humility and determination,” she said.
Coordinator of the office of the first lady, Helen Eno Obareki, expressed gratitude for the successful completion of the statewide tour and commended the Deputy Governor for her leadership.
She described Gov. Eno as gender-friendly and committed to the welfare and empowerment of women in the state.
Commissioner for Women Affairs, Inibehe Silas Etukudo, explained that the sensitisation tour, which began on February 26 and ended on March 6, was aimed at educating women about their civic rights and encouraging greater participation in politics and public life.
She added that the visit of the wife of the president to Akwa Ibom during the International Women’s Day celebration further underscored the importance of the programme.
