The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State has emphasized the need to empower women to assume leadership positions across various sectors of the economy.
The National Women Leader of the APC, Delta State, Dr. Mary Idele, stated this in a press release issued by Mr. Jonathan Eze, media consultant to the Nigerian Export-Import Bank Executive Director, during the Delta State APC Women Empowerment Summit 2024 on Thursday.
Dr. Idele stated that the summit was more than just an event but a call to action and a reminder of the immense potential residing within every woman.
The statement reads in part: “Today, we gather not only to celebrate our achievements but to reaffirm our commitment to using our strength, voices, and talents in service of something greater than ourselves.
“In every corner of the world, we see women breaking barriers, rising to leadership positions, and redefining what it means to lead and serve. Yet, empowerment is not just about personal success; it is about using that success to uplift others. The real measure of empowerment lies in how we transform our communities, support those around us, and build pathways for future generations to thrive.
“‘Empowered to Serve’ is a theme that speaks to the heart of this summit. Empowerment is not just about acquiring power; it’s about purpose. It’s about how we channel our strengths into actions that benefit the many, not just the few. Whether we are in boardrooms, classrooms, marketplaces, or homes, our influence can shape the future.”
She also described the Executive Director of Business Development at NEXIM, Stella Okotete, as a consistent, loyal, and steadfast leader of the party, of whom she is very proud.
The women’s summit, themed ‘Empowered to Serve’, had over 2,000 women in attendance from all the local government areas in the state.
Earlier, Okotete extolled the virtues of the women who stood by the party during the last election, which led to the emergence of two senators, House of Representatives members, and seven House of Assembly members.
She expressed confidence that President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda holds great promise and prosperity for all party faithful, adding that the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, had assured them of her visit in the near future.
On her part, the State Women Leader, Mrs Tina Okwudili, announced that over 500 women traders had joined the party, while also unveiling the Delta State Progressives Cooperative and Agricultural Farmers Schemes, an initiative aimed at economically empowering APC women in the state.
“Today, we gather as a united force, driven by a shared vision and common purpose. We stand at the threshold of a new era, where our collective efforts will shape the future of our great party and our beloved state.”
Okotete, whom the leaders described in glowing terms as the uniting force holding the party together in the state, received numerous commendations from the State Chairman of the party, Elder Omeni Sobotie, who was represented by his wife, Mrs Ify Sobotie, acknowledging Okotete’s profound impact and referring to her as the Lioness of the Niger Delta.
Members of the State House of Assembly also took turns to praise Okotete for her leadership and her welfare programmes, which have elevated the party’s profile. Among the assembly members present were Dafe Emakpor, Minority Leader, Ebitonmo Anthony Alapala, Benson Obire, Spencer Obokpare Ohwofa, Matthew Omonade, Blessing Achoja, and Obie Egbetamah, among others.
The State Women Leader from Edo State, Betty Okoebor Benson, urged the women to consider themselves fortunate to have a leader like Stella Okotete and encouraged them to work towards winning the state for the APC in 2027.
The event also featured the empowerment of women who had remained loyal to the party at all levels. Mrs Ejieh Helen from Delta North, Mrs Rita Ogagarojor from Delta South, and Mrs Queen Ogedengbe from Delta Central each received N1 million, while Mrs Roseline Akamakowe, Endurance Akoka, Edewor Rose, Lizzy Unurhoro, and Mercy Ochei each received N500,000.
Other beneficiaries received N250,000, N150,000, N100,000, and N50,000, respectively.
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