GBV: First Lady Takes Sensitization to Ibesikpo Asutan

 

Wife of the Governor of Akwa Ibom State and Chairperson of the Akwa Ibom State Gender - Based Violence Management Committee (AKAGBVMC), Pastor Patience Eno has engaged with Community Stakeholders in Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area to raise awareness on the ills of Gender-Based Violence.

In a Town Hall meeting at the Council Hall, Ibesikpo Asutan LGA, Pastor Patience Eno who said the fight against GBV will be tackled collectively, explained that the advocacy visit is to educate and inform the Community Stakeholders of the provisions of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) VAPP Law 2020, to avert breaches of the law.

According to the Governor's Wife who was represented by a GIFA team member Mrs Anne Abraham, the month of June is dedicated to advocacies and sensitisations on the contents of the VAPP law, advising them as leaders of different groups, to share the information received with their members to help curb the incessant occurrence of GBV cases in the State.

A member of the Akwa Ibom State GBV Management Committee, Mrs Kokomma Umanah, the Director of the Akwa Ibom Multi - Door Courthouse Magistrate Helen Umana and Miss Ekemini Akpakpan of GIFA, took turns to handle several sessions on SGBV, the mandate of the AKS GBV Committee, as well as the stipulated penalties - sanctions and fines, for the different GBV offences.

They particularly talked about a few GBV offences such as harmful traditional widowhood practices, rape, Female Genital Mutilation and  forceful ejection from home. Other offences included willfully making false statements, forced financial dependence, as well as emotional, verbal and psychological abuse.

The Town Hall meeting featured an interactive section where the men and women participated in a Focal Group Discussion anchored by Mrs Edidiong Inyang, where they responded to issues bordering on existing traditional laws against GBV and enforcement patterns in the LGA.

Stakeholders from Ibesikpo Asutan including the Wife of the Head of Civil Service, Mrs Uduak Essien, Wife of the Paramount Ruler, Ibesikpo Asutan LGA, Obongawan Udeme Clement, Wife of Chairman AKICORP, Mrs Joanna Owodiong - Idemeko, Wife of the Clan Head, Ibesikpo, Obongawan Glory Etuk, Village Head of Nung Udoe, Eteidung Okon Joseph, Archbishop Emilia Samuel, Youth Leader Nnimong Inyang, expressed their commitment to reporting cases of violence to deter perpetrators at the meeting which brought together leaders of women and youth groups across the LGA.

Media Unit

Office of the Wife of Governor, AKS

June 6, 2024

Having intense itching and thinking of getting an antibiotics...wait, it could be scabies?

 

Mbuotidem Akpan 

Scabies is a highly contagious skin condition caused by the infestation of the human itch mite. This parasite is microscopic in size and can be transmitted by direct skin contact with an infected person and object like clothing material. 

It can cause severe discomfort and widespread outbreaks if not addressed promptly. Understanding its symptoms, methods of prevention, and available treatments is crucial for managing and mitigating its impact.

The primary symptom of scabies is intense itching especially Between the fingers, armpits, Buttocks, Inner thigh and Genital area often exacerbated at night- take note especially at night. 

This itching results from the body’s allergic reaction to the mites, their eggs, and their waste. Other common symptoms include the appearance of rash, lesions and burrows on the skin.

In as much there are medications available for treating scabies it is very important to implement the non-pharmacoligical ( without the use of drugs) approach in tackling scabies while using drugs. which include:

1. Avoiding direct skin-to-skin contact with an infested person until they have been effectively treated or contaminated objects.

2. Personal Hygiene:  Washing and thorough drying of clothing, bedding, towels using hot water, antiseptics  and drying under the sun to kill any mites. The clothes should be Ironed if you can not dry them properly under the sun.

3. Awareness in Communal Settings like dormitories, schools or childcare centers.

In Conclusion, Scabies, though uncomfortable and sometimes distressing, is a condition that can be treated and managed effectively with proper awareness. 

Mbuotidem Ime Akpan is a Pharmacist who is dedicated to promoting the responsible use of antimicrobials and educating the public on healthy living and lifestyle choices.

Movement For A Better Nigeria Felicitates Alhaji Dokubo on 60th Birthday

 

The Akwa Ibom State Chapter of the Movement For A Better Nigeria has extended its congratulations to the renowned Niger Delta activist, Alhaji Asari Dokubo, on the occasion of his 60th birthday.

The group commended his relentless advocacy for the freedom and development of the Niger Delta region, wishing him many more years of impactful service and achievements.

#MovementForABetterNigeria

#AlhajiAsariDokubo

An Open Letter to Pst. Umo Eno

𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗡 𝗟𝗘𝗧𝗧𝗘𝗥 𝗧𝗢 𝗛𝗜𝗦 𝗘𝗫𝗖𝗘𝗟𝗟𝗘𝗡𝗖𝗬, 𝗣𝗔𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗥 𝗨𝗠𝗢 𝗘𝗡𝗢, 𝗘𝗫𝗘𝗖𝗨𝗧𝗜𝗩𝗘 𝗚𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗡𝗢𝗥 𝗢𝗙 𝗔𝗞𝗪𝗔 𝗜𝗕𝗢𝗠 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗧𝗘

𝙃𝙞𝙨 𝙀𝙭𝙘𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙮, 𝙋𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧 𝙐𝙢𝙤 𝙀𝙣𝙤, 𝙂𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙣𝙤𝙧 𝙤𝙛 𝘼𝙠𝙬𝙖 𝙄𝙗𝙤𝙢 𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙚, 𝙂𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙣𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙃𝙤𝙪𝙨𝙚, 𝙐𝙮𝙤, 𝘼𝙠𝙬𝙖 𝙄𝙗𝙤𝙢 𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙚.  

𝙔𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙀𝙭𝙘𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙮,

On behalf of the good people of Ikono-Ini Federal Constituency, it is with great pleasure that I extend my heartfelt congratulations to you on the successful completion of your first year in office. Your administration's commitment to the development and welfare of our beloved state has been evident through the numerous giant strides you have taken in this short period.

Your visionary leadership has brought significant progress in education, healthcare, infrastructure, economic development and various other sectors. The people of Ikono-Ini and indeed the entire state have witnessed remarkable improvements that have positively impacted their lives. We are particularly appreciative of your efforts in promoting peace, security, and unity within the state, which are essential for sustainable development.

While celebrating your achievements, I must also address a matter of concern that has affected the development of Ikono Local Government Area. It is with a heavy heart that I apologize for the unfortunate actions of certain individuals within the political class in Ikono Local Government who, in the past, have connived to frustrate development projects in our constituency. A notable case in reference is the 21.5 km Urua Naira-Ikot Ayan-Nung Ukim road project in Ikono Local Government Area.

This crucial road project, which has been awarded twice by the two preceding administrations, has faced undue setbacks due to the unscrupulous actions of some individuals, who went behind the scenes to extort monies from the contractors, thereby stalling progress and denying our people the benefits of a completed road which would have been listed as one of the projects for your commissioning within your one (1) year in office. This betrayal of public trust is unacceptable, and I share in the disappointment and displeasure of our constituents over this matter.

Your Excellency, I humbly ask you to forgive those who have acted against the interests of our community. Despite these setbacks, I have unwavering faith in your administration's commitment to ensuring that no part of our state is left behind in the journey towards development. In line with your drive to complete abandoned roads and projects across the state, I earnestly request that you prioritize the completion of the Urua Naira road in Ikono Local Government Area. Completing this project will not only enhance economic activities and improve the quality of life for our people but also restore their faith in your government’s dedication to their welfare. 

Your intervention in this matter will be deeply appreciated and will stand as a testament to your inclusive and compassionate leadership.

Once again, congratulations on your successful first year in office. The people of Ikono-Ini Federal Constituency stand with you and support your vision for a greater Akwa Ibom State. May your tenure be marked by unprecedented achievements and may our state continue to thrive under your leadership.

Yours sincerely,

Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Ukpong-udo (PhD)

Member, House of Representatives

Ikono-Ini Federal Constituency

May 30, 2024

"I’ve served in the last 1 year with the integrity of my heart" – Umo Eno

 

Priscilla Akpanettot

Pst. Umo Eno has expressed that he has served Akwa Ibom State as Governor in the last one year with the integrity of his heart.

He said this while briefing the State media community on Tuesday, May 28, at the Government House in Uyo.

The Governor who recalled with thankfulness, his sojourn into governance noted that himself and his team have so far been sincere and truthful to the people. 

“The team have done their best. We’ve tried to stay within our agenda and the promise/covenant we had with the people and I trust that we’ll continue to do more”.

He thanked the media community for promoting activities of his administration, and called for their constructive reviews at all time.

Reiterating his desire to ensure that projects initiated by his government promotes economic growth at the grassroots, to give the people a sense of belonging; the Governor directed questions on his doings to Commissioners who provided insights on happenings in their respective Ministries. 

Sectoral appraisal of Governor Eno’s administration reveals that education, agriculture, social welfare, among others were being prioritized.

The major successes recorded in the scorecard include roads and other infrastructure numbering over 80 road projects, some of which he inherited from previous administrations.

Paramount among these infrastructure is the construction of Ndiya Street and environs around Akpan Andem Market, remodeled with street lights and drains. Pastor Umo Eno has equally completed the construction of the 1.3km, 8 metre-deep underground flood control tunnel along Atiku Abubakar Avenue in Uyo.

The scorecard also captured the construction of the 60 metre span Nto Ide-Ikot Amba Bridge with 800m Aproach Road in Obot Akara. 

The administration has equally carried out the ongoing construction of the neglected Nto Ndang-Nto Ekpu Ikot-Nto Abiakpo-Ikot Otu-Atan Ibong-Usaka Annang Road in Obot Akara Local Government Area.

The government has equally commissioned the recently completed expansion of the 24km Airport Road among other major road projects ongoing across the State.

The Governor equally highlighted his achievements in the education sector of the State, including the two model primary schools have already been commissioned by his administration.

 The model primary schools are with state-of-the-art learning facilities which come with sports facilities and residential quarters for teachers, to encourage them to give their best to the children. 

To enhance security of lives and property, Governor Eno had created the Ministry of Internal Security and Waterways Management and has procured 14 gunboats and police patrol vehicles to enhance the performance of security agencies in the State.

The government also initiated Ibom Community Watch to serve as actionable intelligence to regular security agencies. This initiative apart from the peace it has engendered for Akwa Ibom people, has also created gainful engagements of youths from the 31 LGAs in the state.

The government has as well made bold impacts in the health sector with the provision of primary healthcare centres have already been commissioned and equipped within Uyo, Ibesikpo, Eket and Nsit Atai Local Government Areas.

The Governor’s scorecared in the social sector include the payment of gratuities worth over 21 billion Naira among other entitlements to retirees in the State. The government has equally carried out the distribution free food to the vulnerable through the bulk purchase agency in addition to the Compassionate Homes built for widows and other disadvantaged members of society.

Among other Commissioners that made presentations at the media parley were the Commissioner for Information, Comrade Ini Ememobong who spoke on plans to build an ultra-modern radio station for the State.

While his counterpart in Education, Mrs Idongesit Etiebet and that of Works, Prof Eno Ibanga spoke on issues raised with regards to their respective ministries.

The event climaxed with a vote of thanks from the State NUJ Chairman, Comrade Amos Etuk who commended the Governor for carrying journalists along in his scheme of things as reflected in appointment of journalists to serve in different capacities in the State.

*Credit: Aniefiok Christopher*

Menstrual Hygiene Day: First Lady Distributes Sanitary Packages to Girls

In her commitment to promote good menstrual health and hygiene practices, Wife of the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Patience Umo Eno has facilitated the distribution of sanitary pads to hundreds of girls in select Public Secondary Schools across the three Senatorial Districts in the State.

Celebrating the 2024 Menstrual Hygiene Day on Tuesday May 28 with the  students of Girls' High School, Ikot Ibiok, Eket; Goretti Girls' Secondary Commercial  School, Ikot Ekpene and Union Secondary School, Ibiaku, Ibiono Ibom; Pastor Patience Eno said it was pertinent to equip the girls with proper period education and sanitary pads in order to prevent infections.

The Governor's wife who was represented by her Aide and member of her Golden Initiative For All - GIFA team, Mrs Ann Abraham, stated that the observance of the day is in tandem with GIFA's school Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) programme targeted at promoting safe WASH practices to prevent the spread of diseases.

The First Lady reiterated that access to sanitary pads to manage menstruation, will not only decrease the risk of infections that might pose as infertility challenges in future, but also dismantle barriers to education, hence the distribution of sanitary pads to boost their confidence and reduce the shame and stigma associated with monthly periods.

Giving a talk on menstrual hygiene, the Public Relations Officer of the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria, Dr. Rhoda Peter said menstruation is a thing of pride and a pathway to adulthood. She encouraged the girls to care for themselves, be intentional about their body and well-being as well as practice proper personal menstrual hygiene and disposal.

She noted that the first menstrual flow is menarche which starts at age 11 and  that good menstrual health and hygiene practices can prevent infections, reduce odours and help them stay comfortable during their period.

The Principals and students of the Schools visited applauded the Governor's Wife, Pastor Patience Eno for identifying their schools as beneficiaries of the menstrual hygiene kits and guidance on proper management of menstrual hygiene. They also praised the Governor, Pastor Umo Eno for the construction of the road that has provided access to the Goretti Girls' Commercial Secondary School, Ikot Ekpene.

Goodwill messages were received from Stakeholders in the three Local Government Areas visited, including the Wife of the Paramount Ruler of Eket, Obongawan Mandu Abia, Wife of the member representing Ikot Ekpene and Obot Akara State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Pastor Idongesit Otu, Wife of the transition Chairman Ikot Ekpene, Mrs Utibe John and Dr Eno Antiaobong Ekong extended appreciation to the Governor's wife, Pastor Patience Umo  for her motherly support in celebrating the Menstrual Hygiene Day in the schools.

The Senior Prefects  of the benefiting Schools, Miss  Bright Essien, Miss Inimfon Otu and Miss Mkpouto Akaninyene Edet thanked the Governor's wife for the choice of their schools for the commemoration of the 2024 Menstrual Hygiene Day and prayed God to bless the wife of the Governor and her family.

Highlights of the celebration was the presentation of Sanitary packs to the girls who left the different venues informed of best practices in menstrual hygiene and overall wellness.

Media Unit

Office of the Wife of the Governor, AKS

May 28, 2024

Uyo Women Celebrate as Uwemedimo Udo Distributes N5.5m Grant to 55 Small-scale Business Owners

 

In a heartwarming gesture, the Chairman of Uyo Local Government Transition Committee, Dr. Uwemedimo Udo, on Tuesday, distributed N5.5 million as business support grants to fifty-five women selected from the eleven wards of Uyo Local Government Area. 

The recipients, including market women, were visibly elated as they received their cash transfer alerts of N100,000 each inside the Uyo Council hall, expressing their gratitude through joyful dancing and songs of praise for the Chairman.

Notable beneficiaries such as Mfonobong Godwin Archibong, Grace Ibanga Eyo, Kokomma Mkpongoñyong, Philomina Bright, and Udeme Asuquo Effiong, among others, were among those who received the grants. 

Dr. Udo emphasized that the grants were aimed at bolstering local women in their entrepreneurial pursuits and supporting the economic growth agenda championed by Governor Umo Eno. 

He announced plans to extend the support to an additional 55 women in future phases of the program, urging the recipients to use the funds prudently to enhance their businesses.

During the event, dignitaries including the wife of the Chairman, Mrs. Akaninyene Uwemedimo, who was represented by the Council's Supervisor for Education, Obong Idara Akpan, lauded Dr. Udo's commitment to the welfare of the people and the development initiatives of Governor Umo Eno.

Well-wishers, including Dr. Inemesit Uwah, wife of the Secretary to the Akwa Ibom State Government; Roberta Nyong, a Commissioner in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Service Commission; and Chief Boniface Okon, Clan Head of Etoi, praised the Chairman's benevolence and encouraged the beneficiaries to effectively utilize the grants to grow their businesses.

The event witnessed the presence of political figures, including Council Secretary Hon. Ubong Udofia, NULGE Chairperson Comrade Emem Ekikor, Council Supervisors, senior officials of the local government, and traditional leaders, among others. 

Media Unit

Office of the TC Chairman,

Uyo LGA.