National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Paulinus NTA, A’IBOM
The Akwa Ibom State Government has inaugurated a committee dedicated to the domestication of the National Women Economic Empowerment Policy, Monitoring, and Evaluation Framework.
The committee is chaired by Barrister Ime Mfon Obot, Director of Legal Drafting at the Ministry of Justice.
Co-Chairmen include Commissioner for Information Ini Ememobong and Barrister Ofonime Etuk, State Project Coordinator for the Nigeria for Women Project.
Barrister Nkechi Udoh will serve as Secretary, with Mr. Ndifreke Mbaba as the Consultant.
Other members are Mr. Otobong Sambo, Ubongabasi Ikpe, Chris Ben, Mfonido Udoekong, Moses Antigha, Comfort Ebong, Etido Bassey, and Dr. Uyai Akpanobong.
During the inauguration, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Dr. Ini Adiakpan, explained that the Women Economic Empowerment initiative was launched to streamline gender policies and address the disparities women face in accessing financial benefits and opportunities across various sectors.
Dr. Adiakpan highlighted that the National Women Economic Empowerment Policy and Action Plan is a comprehensive approach designed to leverage diverse perspectives across the Federation.
The policy document outlines a robust set of measures aimed at promoting women’s economic empowerment, improving access to finance, fostering entrepreneurship, and enhancing women’s participation and leadership.
“Gender equality cannot be achieved if women are not economically empowered,” Dr. Adiakpan stated.
She stated the importance of the committee’s role in developing a monitoring and evaluation framework, which will inform future engagements and assist in tracking all women empowerment programs in the state.
Adiakpan noted that the administration of Governor Umo Eno is deeply committed to the welfare of women and is planning more comprehensive programmes to meet the needs of women in Akwa Ibom.
Chairman of the Committee, Barrister Ime Obot, pledged to work diligently to fulfill the objectives of the National Women Economic Empowerment Policy for the benefit of the state.
