The Acting First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, Lady Helen Eno-Obareki, has emphasized that investing in girls’ education, safety, and empowerment is key to building a better future for the state.
She made this known at the Government House Banquet Hall in Uyo during the celebration of the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child, themed “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls on the Frontlines of Crisis.”
Lady Obareki explained that when a girl’s right to education, safety, and health is denied, it affects not just her life but the progress of the entire state. She spoke about The Golden Initiative for All (GIFA) a project started by her late mother which aims to turn global goals for girls’ empowerment into real benefits for local communities.
She said the initiative focuses on improving leadership, learning opportunities, and economic empowerment for girls, while supporting Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda to remove barriers holding young girls back.
Obareki called on government officials, community leaders, parents, and teachers to renew their commitment to supporting the girl child.
She also encouraged girls to believe in themselves, keep learning, and use their voices, describing them as “the heartbeat of progress and the leaders the world is waiting for.”
Deputy Governor Dr. Akon Eyakenyi urged girls to take education seriously, noting that the state’s Child Rights Law will continue to protect children from abuse and exploitation.