Ms. Akpabio Endorses “Empower Her” Project, Calls for Sustained Support
By Ahiaba Douglas – Abuja
The Managing Director of the South-South Development Commission (SSDC), Ms. Usoro Akpabio, has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of women across the South-South region and the nation at large.
Ms. Akpabio made this known in a keynote address delivered at the official unveiling of the Empower Her Project, held on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at the Dr. Mariam Babangida Centre for Women Development, Central Business District, Abuja.
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She noted that the belief that empowering a woman ultimately translates into empowering the community and the nation aligns strongly with her personal convictions and with the Commission’s mandate for the South-South geopolitical zone.
According to her, women’s empowerment is not merely a governmental obligation but a strategic investment in Nigeria’s stability and long-term prosperity.
“When women have access to education, skills, opportunities, and the freedom to thrive, they contribute significantly to economic growth, innovation, and social stability,” she stated. Ms. Akpabio emphasized that the strength and socio-economic development of any nation are closely tied to the extent to which its women are empowered—underscoring the critical role of resilient women in achieving sustainable national progress.
She described the Empower Her Foundation as a vital platform that will help women discover their potential, establish sustainable livelihoods, and take their rightful place as key contributors to national development.
Ms. Akpabio also urged governments and non-governmental organizations to maintain consistent efforts toward women-focused empowerment programs, stressing that true empowerment requires long-term dedication.
“As we celebrate this unveiling, let us remember that empowering women is not a one-time event. It is a continuous commitment, a shared responsibility, and a promise to build a brighter, more inclusive future for all,” she stated.
The Managing Director also commended Hon. Tabitha Illiya, Chairperson of the project, for her vision and dedication to strengthening Nigerian women as vital drivers of the nation’s socio-economic advancement.
Commenting on the inauguration of the Northern Nigeria Christian Women for Asiwaju (NNCWA), which took place alongside the unveiling ceremony, Ms. Akpabio described the development as timely and commendable. She noted that the group’s commitment to praying for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and supporting the success of his administration aligns with its core mandate and reinforces efforts to sustain the transformational progress recorded under the Renewed Hope Agenda beyond 2027.
