The Special Assistant to the Governor of Ebonyi State on New Media, Mr. Leo Ekene Oketa, has celebrated the resilience, strength and contributions of Ebonyi women to the development of the state.
Oketa made the remarks as Ebonyi women gathered in their numbers on Wednesday for the grand finale of the 2026 Ebonyi August Meeting, an annual celebration that brings women together to promote unity, community development and the welfare of families.
Describing the Ebonyi woman as resilient, hardworking, compassionate, enterprising and strong, Oketa said women across the state had continued to contribute significantly to the growth of their families and communities despite numerous challenges.
He also commended the First Lady of Ebonyi State, Her Excellency Chief Mrs. Uzoamaka Mary-Maudline Nwifuru, for her commitment to improving the lives of women, widows, indigent persons and vulnerable members of society.
According to him, the First Lady’s interventions have included providing homes for indigent persons and widows, empowering women financially, equipping them with skills for sustainable livelihoods, and supporting initiatives aimed at protecting the rights, dignity, health and wellbeing of women and girls.
Oketa noted that Mrs. Nwifuru’s approach to women’s empowerment had been particularly impactful because she was committed to creating opportunities for women to succeed rather than seeking the spotlight for herself.
He said her advocacy and consistent belief in the capacity of Ebonyi women had contributed to increased female participation in leadership and governance across the state.
He highlighted the emergence of a female Deputy Governor, alongside the Secretary to the State Government and Head of Service, as well as several female Commissioners and women heading critical government institutions and boards.
According to him, women are also serving as Vice Chairmen of Local Government Areas and occupying several strategic positions across the state.
Oketa attributed the growing representation of women in governance, in part, to the First Lady’s advocacy and confidence in the ability of Ebonyi women to deliver when given the opportunity.
He said the increasing presence of women in leadership was evidence that the administration of Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru recognised and valued the contributions of women to governance and development.
He further described the 2026 August Meeting grand finale as more than a celebration of one individual or an event, but a celebration of the collective strength and achievements of Ebonyi women.
He paid tribute to mothers, wives, daughters, widows, entrepreneurs, professionals and other women whose sacrifices and contributions continue to strengthen families and communities across the state.
Oketa urged Ebonyi women to remain united, resilient and committed to supporting one another, stressing that the progress of women would ultimately translate into the progress of families and communities.
“When Ebonyi women shine, Ebonyi shines,” he said, while congratulating women across the state on the successful celebration of the 2026 Ebonyi August Meeting.
He also commended the First Lady for what he described as her dedication to creating an environment where women can grow, thrive and realise their potential.
The grand finale ended with renewed calls for greater unity, empowerment and participation of women in the social, economic and political development of Ebonyi State.
