Senate President Godswill Akpabio has extended economic support to women in Akwa Ibom’s riverine communities, unveiling a set of modern fishing boats aimed at strengthening livelihoods and boosting local productivity during the Yuletide season.
The intervention, delivered under Akpabio’s constituency outreach, targeted women and cooperative societies whose primary source of income is artisanal fishing.
Moreover, the initiative was designed to move beyond short-term relief by providing tools that can sustain income generation and improve household stability.
The presentation took place on Boxing Day at Akpabio’s country home in Ukana, Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, with beneficiaries drawn largely from the coastal areas of the state.
Speaking at the event, the wife of the Senate President, Dr Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, expressed appreciation to her husband for prioritising women in riverine communities.
She explained that the beneficiaries were selected across senatorial lines, noting that Akpabio’s leadership philosophy embraces inclusiveness.
“My husband serves all Akwa Ibom people without discrimination, and this support reflects that commitment,” she said.
In his remarks, Akpabio praised the women for their consistent support over the years and said empowering them economically was both a personal obligation and a strategic investment.
“I can never forget your prayers, your love, and your loyalty. We remain strong because you continue to stand with us,” he said.
He also urged the women to sustain their political support for the All Progressives Congress ahead of future elections, while commending Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, for prioritising human capital development.
According to Akpabio, collaborative governance remains essential for delivering tangible benefits to the people.
Providing technical details of the empowerment scheme, the Executive Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Dr Victor Antai, said each boat was fully equipped to enhance fishing operations.
He explained that the package included fishing nets, refrigerators, auxiliary fuel tanks, and outboard engines, with larger boats fitted with twin 75-horsepower engines and smaller ones powered by 40-horsepower engines.
On behalf of the beneficiaries, Mma Nkoyo Isong thanked Akpabio and his wife for what she described as a sustainable form of empowerment.
“This is teaching us how to fish, not just giving us fish. We will honour this gesture with our continued support,” she said.
Although only a few boats were displayed for symbolic presentation, Akpabio read out the full list of individual beneficiaries and cooperative societies slated to receive the equipment, bringing the ceremony to a close amid expressions of gratitude.