The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has affirmed that the coordination of all activities and engagements related to women in the state falls solely under the jurisdiction of the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare.
Speaking at the national combined service of All Nations Christian Ministry International in Eket, the Governor emphasized that the responsibilities of the Ministry of Women Affairs are clearly defined regarding the management of women-related affairs.
He stressed that there should be no conflict, ambiguity, or confusion between the ministry’s role and that of the Office of the First Lady and its pet project, the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA).
The Governor stated that all aides to the Governor on women’s mobilization are expected to work with the Commissioner for Women Affairs to ensure seamless coordination of all women-related matters in the state.
The Governor reiterated that Mrs. Helen Obareki serves as the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady and the Golden Initiative for All.
He added that while GIFA was originally a pet project of the late First Lady, the program will continue beyond her tenure and stands as a foundation in her memory, dedicated to touching lives.
The Governor further emphasized that the choice of Mrs. Obareki as Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady was based on her competence, as she had worked closely with her mother, the First Lady, as a Personal Assistant.
This position allowed her a unique opportunity to understudy and gain experience.
He noted that, aside from being his first daughter, Mrs. Obareki’s experiences over the years have distinguished her as the most capable person to coordinate the office’s activities.
He, therefore, appealed to women in the state to extend their support to the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Mrs. Obareki.
The Governor expressed gratitude to all who attended the church service and prayed for God’s blessings on everyone.
In her message, titled “The Sleep of Hope,” taken from First Thessalonians 4:13-18, Lady Apostle Helen Ukpabio, Founder/President of Liberty Foundation Gospel Ministries, emphasized that those who believe in Jesus Christ, though they may sleep, will awaken on resurrection morning. She advised believers not to mourn those without hope.
In attendance were the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Elder Udeme Otong, members of the State Executive Council, Chairmen of Local Government Councils, Chairmen of Boards and Agencies, and many others.
