A’Ibom govt to allow women to serve in different leadership positions

Akpan Umoh, Uyo

The Akwa Ibom State government has said it is committed to allowing to offer significant opportunities for women to serve in different leadership capacities in the state.

The Deputy Governor, Mr Moses Ekpo, said this on Sunday in Uyo during the 60th birthday Thanksgiving of Mrs Felicia Bassey, Deputy Speaker and member Representing Okobo State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom House of Assembly.

The deputy governor stated that the commitment was a deliberate policy of government targeted at encouraging the womenfolk to contribute their quota by taking up challenging roles, that would enhance the progress and development of the state.

According to him, Bassey’s patriotic commitments and giant strides in the growth and development of the state and wider humanity cannot be overlooked, as they represent a moral compass and a new leadership benchmark to all women aspiring to serve.

Ekpo described her as a determined, strong woman Leader, one of the first women council chairmen, community developer, advocate, team player and a very consistent and loyal politician who happens to be the first female deputy speaker.

He praised her for an effective people-oriented representation and robust legislative engagement, impactful and outstanding life of public service.

Bassey, the celebrant expressed gratitude to God for keeping and seeing her through life’s trials and challenges.

The deputy speaker attributed her success story at 60 to the mercies and grace of God Almighty.

Earlier in a homily, the Senior Pastor of the Shepherd’s Porch Church, Pastor Tunde Oyeyipo, harped on the importance of thanksgiving, adding that honour is the seed for God’s glory.

Oyeyipo said, “Whatever you give to God should reflect the weight of God and the honour that you give to him.”

He added that if you want to give an acceptable sacrifice to God, you must first present your heart to him, which is what God desires the most.

Goodwill messages were given by the wife of the Governor, Mrs Martha Emmanuel, Senator representing Akwa Ibom South senatorial district, Akon Eyakenyi and Leader of the Akwa Ibom House of Assembly, Mr Udo Kierien.