In the spirit of Easter, Mrs. Catherine Agba-Ajibike on Monday, April 6 (Easter Monday), hosted members of the Obudu Women Network alongside other party supporters at her residence in Ukwel-Obudu Village, Urban II Ward, Obudu Local Government Area, where she also disbursed cash support to women as part of an empowerment initiative.
The event, which combined celebration with grassroots development, was chaired by the Executive Chairman of Obudu Local Government Council, Hon. Peter Akonfe Undiandeye, who was represented by the Vice Chairman, Hon. Rhoda Ashong. The initiative focused on supporting rural women with financial assistance to establish and expand micro-businesses, thereby promoting self-reliance and economic independence.
In her remarks, the Vice Chairman commended Mrs. Agba-Ajibike for what she described as a people-oriented initiative, noting that the empowerment programme would significantly contribute to the socio-economic development of Obudu.
Also speaking, the Paramount Ruler of Obudu Local Government Area, HRM Utsu Felix Ukudari (Utsu Bette V), applauded the gesture and called on government agencies, traditional institutions, and religious leaders to sustain the legacy of the late Chief J.A. Agba by prioritizing grassroots empowerment. He further offered prayers for God’s continued guidance and blessings upon the host.
The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Obudu Chapter, Comrade Joseph Ubenaye Odama, reaffirmed the party’s commitment to improving the welfare of its members, particularly women. He also appreciated the efforts of the State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, and his wife, Bishop Dr. Mrs. Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, for their sustained support toward women’s development.
In her response, Mrs. Catherine Agba-Ajibike expressed gratitude to all attendees, emphasizing that women remain vital pillars of society and key drivers of community development. She acknowledged the support of the First Lady, Bishop Dr. Mrs. Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, in advancing women-focused initiatives across the state.
She also appreciated other contributors to the empowerment programme, including Senator Prof. Ben Ayade, Dr. Paul Adalikwu, High Chief Higgins Peters, Rt. Hon. Barr. Legor Idagbo, Ntufam Dr. Fidelis Ugbo, Hon. Dr. Stella Odey Ekpo, Senator Prof. Stephen Odey, Admiral Peter Agba (Rtd), and Chief Adeleye S. Ajibike.
