The Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, has applauded Governor Umo Eno for allocating 40 percent of political appointments and positions to women in the state.
She described the governor’s gesture as unprecedented in the political history of the state, noting that it surpasses the 35 percent benchmark set by the 1995 Beijing Conference on women’s political inclusion.
Senator Eyakenyi made this known on Sunday, March 8, at the Apostolic Church, Uyo, during a thanksgiving service held to commemorate the 2026 International Women’s Day and the successful conclusion of the Women Sensitization Tour on Civic Responsibilities across the 31 local government areas of the state.
Highlighting the 2026 theme of the global celebration, “Rights, Justice and Action,” the Deputy Governor said the protection of women’s rights contributes significantly to peace and stability in families and society.
Senator Eyakenyi also referenced historical struggles for women’s rights, noting that the famous 1929 women’s uprising, commonly associated with Aba, was originally carried out by women from Ikot Abasi in present-day Akwa Ibom State.
She further stated that the state government has effectively implemented the principles of the Beijing Declaration, which advocates greater political inclusion for women.
“You have witnessed that Akwa Ibom State, under Governor Umo Eno, has fully implemented the declaration. 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.
Speaking further, Senator Eyakenyi noted that women currently occupy several key leadership positions in the state, including the offices of Chief Judge, Head of Service, commissioners, local government chairmen, vice chairmen, supervisors, and aides to the governor.
“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 achieved 40 percent inclusion, surpassing the 35 percent benchmark recommended at the Beijing Conference,” she added.
She also disclosed that the state government has made provisions in the 2026 budget to empower women through cooperative societies across the 31 local government areas. She urged women in the state to pursue their aspirations with humility and determination.
In her remarks, the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Lady Helen Eno Obareki, thanked God for the successful completion of the statewide tour and commended the Deputy Governor for her leadership and resilience.
She said Governor Eno has consistently demonstrated commitment to the welfare and empowerment of women in the state, describing him as gender-friendly.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Inibehe Silas Etukudo, explained that the sensitisation tour, which began on February 26 and ended on March 6, was designed to educate women on their civic rights and encourage greater participation in politics and public life.
Delivering the sermon, Apostle (Prof.) Ime N. George, who spoke from Numbers 27:1–11, emphasised that women and girls are not property or slaves but joint heirs with men in Christ.
