GIFA HALF HOUR

OBAREKI, FRSC JOIN FORCES ON ROAD SAFETY; BACKS ZEBRA CROSSINGS, SCHOOL SAFETY MEASURES

The Coordinator of the office of the First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, Lady Helen Eno Obareki, has stressed that effective road safety management requires strategic partnerships, sustained public enlightenment and humane enforcement of traffic regulations, by officials.

Lady Obareki stated this when she received a delegation from the Akwa Ibom State Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, led by the Sector Commander, Corps commander Felicia Kalu, at Government House, Uyo.

Speaking during the meeting, Lady Obareki assured the FRSC officials of support from the office of the First Lady in Akwa Ibom State, towards achieving its mandate and creating a lasting impact on road safety.

Lady Obareki specifically pledged to collaborate with the FRSC in the construction of additional zebra crossings at strategic locations across the state to reduce road accidents and improve pedestrian safety.

The Coordinator also promised the donation of reflective school bags to pupils, as part of efforts to enhance the visibility and safety of school children on the roads.

While commending the FRSC for its role in traffic management and accident prevention, Lady Obareki urged officers of the Corps to maintain professionalism, civility and decorum in the course of enforcement and public sensitization.

According to her, effective communication, respect and constructive engagement with motorists and other road users would help build trust and encourage voluntary compliance with traffic regulations and further advised the Command to carry the Office of the First Lady along in its programmes and initiatives to ensure greater collaboration and sustainable impact.

"‎Decorum in enforcement is actually a really serious issue. Why are people so terrified once they see you on the roads? ‎Why does your office come with such a reaction from individuals. I think we need a lot of sensitisation to change that narrative and public opinion. Let us have a civil conversation when we meet you on the road, let us know that you are our friends."
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Lady Obareki also assured the FRSC team of support and access: "‎I'm ready to partner with you on all the advocacy and sensitisations that you want to carry out. The office of the first lady can only be a part of that if you carry us along. So as you're going to schools to set up Road Safety clubs for students, we can have representation from this office, or the Golden Initiative for All, GIFA", she added.
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The State Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Akwa Ibom State Command, Mrs Felicia Kalu, commended Lady Obareki for her unwavering support and commitment to the welfare of children and other vulnerable groups in the State, emphasising that the FRSC, under her leadership, remains committed to reducing road crashes and fatalities to the barest minimum.

She highlighted critical challenges affecting road safety, such as inadequate road signages, speed bumps, and zebra crossings, as deficiencies that significantly contribute to the risks faced by road users.

Corps Commander Kalu said the State Command would intensify public awareness campaigns and implement the 4 E's strategies - Engineering, Enforcement, Education, and Emergency care, to reduce crash fatalities, in Akwa Ibom State.

She specifically listed traffic control measures to enhance effectiveness and ensure safer roads for all road users, to include the setting up of Road Safety Clubs in schools, advocacies in churches, the organisation of quiz competition in schools, and regular sensitisation campaigns targeting drivers at motor parks and traders in Markets.

High point of the visit was the presentation of gifts to the Coordinator by the 24th Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, the second woman to occupy that seat in Akwa Ibom State.

Media Unit
Office of the First Lady, AKS
June 16, 2026.

LADY OBAREKI CHARGES GRADUATES OF PUBLIC SPEAKING ON COMPETENCE, CHARACTER AND PURPOSEFUL COMMUNICATION

The Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, Lady Helen Eno Obareki, has urged graduates of the AkanDavid Executive Institute of Public Speaking to ensure that their newly acquired prowess in public speaking is reflected in their competence, character and impactful communication.

Lady Obareki gave the charge during the 15th Graduation Ceremony and Public Lecture of the AkanDavid Executive Institute of Public Speaking on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Secretariat Complex, Uyo, where she described the theme: "Caps, Gowns and Empty Crowns: A Tale of Certified Illiteracy," as bold and thought-provoking, noting that academic qualifications alone are insufficient if they do not translate into personal capacity and societal impact.

"A certificate is merely a piece of paper if it does not translate into capacity, character and communication. In a world where many proudly wear caps and gowns, the true test of education lies in what we do with what we have learned. It lies in our ability to think critically, speak confidently, and contribute meaningfully to society. This is why institutions like AkanDavid are so vital - because they go beyond theory to equip individuals with practical skills that shape influence and leadership,” she said.

Emphasising that public speaking is a vital tool for leadership, empowerment and societal development, she urged the graduands to use their newly acquired skills responsibly: “You have been armed with one of the most powerful tools in existence: the power of speech. Please note that words have the capacity to build nations, heal hearts, and inspire movements. They also have the power to deceive and destroy. Remember that your voice is only as valuable as your integrity. Advocate for truth, inspire action, and build bridges of understanding. Furthermore, speak to educate and empower individuals to thrive; speak to give voice to the voiceless; speak to break the silence surrounding societal domestic ills.”

“In a world saturated with noise, you can be the exception. Let your speech be seasoned with purpose, serving as a voice of reason, a beacon of clarity, and an advocate for the voiceless. Your voices can and must be part of this transformation. Akwa Ibom State and indeed our nation need leaders who can articulate vision with empathy, clarity, and courage,” she opined.

Lady Obareki noted that the administration of Governor Umo Eno is advancing rural development, economic prosperity and human capital development through the ARISE Agenda, stressing that effective communication is critical to ensuring that government policies and programmes are understood and embraced by citizens.

She further highlighted the role of the Office of the First Lady through the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA) in promoting the welfare of women and children, protecting survivors of gender-based violence and empowering vulnerable groups, noting that the success of such interventions depends largely on strategic and compassionate communication, which remains central to educating, empowering and giving voice to vulnerable groups, particularly survivors of Gender-Based Violence and members of underserved communities.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Chancellor of the Institute, Mr Akaninyene David, commended the Coordinator for her contributions to the development of Akwa Ibom State and her support for initiatives aimed at protecting vulnerable members of society. He referenced recent sexual assault cases in Uyo and the prosecution of perpetrators, describing the issue as one requiring urgent and sustained attention. He also acknowledged the efforts of GIFA in combating Gender-Based Violence and supporting survivors.

Mr David disclosed that as part of its corporate social responsibility, the institute had extended public speaking training to rural communities, emphasising that education should develop the mind, promote critical thinking and help individuals distinguish right from wrong. He encouraged participants to embrace public speaking as an indispensable life skill, noting that effective communication remains central to personal growth and societal development.

A panel of seasoned academics from the University of Uyo, during the event, underscored the need for professionalism, competence and ethical standards in the teaching profession, stressing that the growing number of schools should not create opportunities for unqualified individuals to infiltrate the education sector. The panellists included a Professor of Criminology, Prof. Aniekan Brown; an Immediate Past Dean of the Faculty of Education and Professor of Educational Technology and Library Science, Prof. Imaobong Akpan; a former Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Comfort Ekpo; and Dean of the Faculty of Development and Media Studies, Prof. Ashong Ashong.

The scholars maintained that teaching should be driven by passion and commitment rather than commercial interests, lamenting the increasing commercialisation of academic qualifications. They emphasised that excellence, competence and strong moral values must remain the hallmark of the teaching profession, advocating reforms in teacher recruitment processes to ensure that only qualified, competent and morally upright individuals are employed. The panel further advocated improved welfare packages for teachers, greater respect for the profession by students and society, and an education system founded on values and character development.

Lady Helen Eno Obareki was accompanied by the wife of the secretary to the State Government, Dr Inemesit Uwah; the Special Adviser, Bureau of Coorperative, Rt. Hon. Alice Ekpenyong; the International Director of Women, ARISE With Renewed Hope Initiative, Dr Glory Edet and the Chairman of Nsit Ibom Local government Council, Hon. Otobong Aaron; to the event, which featured a graduation lecture by a retired Permanent Secretary in the Akwa Ibom State Civil Service, Mr Chrysanthus Asuka and testimonials from some of the cohort 15 graduating students.

Media Unit
Office of the First Lady, AKS
June 13, 2026.

GIFA INTENSIFIES CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION DRIVE
… Empowers Residents with Sustainable Solutions

A call has been made for collective action by individuals and households to mitigate the effects of climate change, considered a challenge that demands immediate action.

This was the view of the coordinator of the office of the First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, Lady Helen Eno Obareki, in her remarks, during a climate change sensitisation programme at the Ibom LED Centre in Uyo, organised by the Patience Umo Eno Golden Initiative For All (GIFA), with the theme: “Climate Change Mitigation”.

Addressing a mixed crowd of students, farmers, market women and stakeholders, from the four Local Government Areas - Uyo, Uruan, Nsit Atai, and Ibesikpo Asutan, that make up the Uyo Federal Constituency, Lady Obareki described the climate change phenomenon as an urgent reality that is impacting livelihoods, public health and economic well-being across communities.
‎‎"We are not here to listen to an abstract scientific seminar or a political debate. We are here because climate change is no longer a distant problem for the future; It is a current reality happening right outside our doors, affecting our homes, our pockets and our survival," she said.

The coordinator, who is also the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of GIFA, described the gathering, which falls under the “Improving Environmental Health” thematic area, as timely, enlightening, and action-oriented, noted that farmers are increasingly grappling with unpredictable weather patterns, while floods, heat waves and environmental degradation continue to threaten public health and livelihoods.

‎According to her, the administration of Governor Umo Eno, through the ARISE Agenda, has prioritised environmental sustainability and public health by strengthening primary healthcare systems, improving road infrastructure, sanitising urban areas and clearing drainage channels to prevent flooding and other climate-induced disasters.

‎Lady Obareki explained that the sensitisation exercise was convened to create awareness and equip residents with the practical knowledge needed to adapt to environmental challenges and promote sustainable environmental practices within their communities. She highlighted the initiative's Water of Life Project as one of GIFA's major interventions aimed at addressing the impact of climate change on water security and public health.
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‎The Coordinator disclosed that the solar-powered water facilities, currently operational in 13 Local government areas, are providing thousands of rural households with access to clean and safe drinking water.

She further revealed that Governor Umo Eno has set a target of providing the “water of life” project in all 369 wards in the state, noting that the project will help reduce waterborne diseases, ease the burden on women and children and strengthen community resilience against environmental shocks.

‎Encouraging participants to become environmental ambassadors, Lady Obareki urged them to embrace responsible waste management practices, recycle plastics, plant trees, adopt climate-smart agricultural methods, and establish environmental clubs and recycling initiatives in their schools and communities, while discouraging indiscriminate bush burning and waste disposal.

‎To encourage immediate economic and environmental benefits of tree planting, Lady Obareki announced that beneficiaries would receive eco-friendly solar lamps and economic tree seedlings provided through the Akwa Ibom State Agricultural Development Programme (AKADEP), the Ministry of Agriculture and the Akwa Ibom State Agriculture and Food Security Committee. ‎‎
‎"The environment is a mirror; what we give to it is exactly what it returns to us. Let us stop fighting nature and start protecting it. Mitigating climate change does not require millions of naira; it begins with simple, intentional adjustments in our daily lives," she stated.

‎The Team Lead of GIFA, Pastor Anne Abraham, described climate change as a critical focus area under the foundation's Improving Environmental Health thematic area, explaining that the programme was designed to equip participants with practical knowledge of creating cleaner and healthier environments while fostering a greater appreciation of nature and environmental stewardship. ‎Pastor Abraham commended market women, farmers, students and other stakeholders for their participation, noting that the event combined education, advocacy and support materials to encourage sustained environmental responsibility.

‎The event featured a panel discussion on climate change moderated by Mr Aniekeme Finbarr with a rich array of panellists comprising Prof. Edna Augustine Akpan from the Department of Crop Science in the Akwa Ibom State University; the Commissioner for Health, Dr Ekem Emmanuel John; the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Health, Safety and Environment, Mrs Jayne Edidiong Ufot; and the Deputy Chief of Party of the Excellence Community Education Welfare Scheme, ECEWS, Dr Otoyo Otoyo.

Speaking during the session, Prof. Akpan attributed climate change largely to human activities and encouraged residents, particularly farmers, to adopt environmentally sustainable agricultural practices and cultivate crops suited to their immediate environments. Dr John described climate change as a growing public health emergency, warning that flooding often contaminates water sources and contributes to outbreaks of cholera, typhoid and other waterborne diseases. He added that climate-related disasters also result in food insecurity, malnutrition and displacement of families. ‎

On her part, Mrs. Ufot emphasised the importance of safety-conscious practices such as proper waste disposal, reinforcement of roofing structures, avoidance of bush burning and the use of durable building materials capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions. Contributing, while Dr Otoyo advocated increased public awareness and behavioural change, encouraging the adoption of cleaner energy alternatives such as solar power and greater commitment to tree planting and environmental conservation.

‎They identified climate-smart agriculture, tree planting, improved sanitation, strengthened safety culture and partnerships with development organisations as key strategies for addressing climate change and enhancing environmental sustainability.

‎The event featured a presentation on plastic recycling, cultural dances, spoken-word and other performances on climate change and the GIFA Thematic areas, and a presentation on the Akwa Ibom State Tree Crop Initiative by the Chairman of the State Agriculture and Food Security Committee, Prof. Okon Ansa.

Media Unit
Office of the First Lady, AKS
June 10, 2026.
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Lady Helen Obareki Champions Science Education at Textbook Launch*
..Calls for greater investment in learning and innovation

The Coordinator of the office of the First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, Lady Helen Eno Obareki, has stressed the critical role that science and technology education play in equipping children with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive global environment.

Lady Obareki, who chaired the public launch ceremony of the Intermediate Science and Technology for Primary Schools Books 1–6, published by El-Sharon Educonsult Plus Limited, on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, was represented by the Wife of the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Inemesit Uwah.

Describing the dedication of the textbook series to her as a profound honour received with humility and gratitude, as well as a collective affirmation of Akwa Ibom's commitment to the educational advancement of its children, Lady Helen affirmed that education remains the bedrock of societal transformation through science and technology, which have become indispensable to national development in the 21st century.

Lady Obareki noted that the newly launched series simplifies complex concepts into content that is engaging and relatable to young pupils described the initiative as aligning with the educational component of Governor Umo Eno's ARISE Agenda, which prioritises innovation, human capital development, and strategic investments in school infrastructure and teacher development and conducive learning environments across the state.

Highlighting the impact of the Patience Umo Eno Golden Initiative For All (GIFA), she disclosed that over 20,000 beneficiaries have been reached through various educational interventions under the initiative's literacy and learning enhancement programmes. “Our Back-to-School packs and School Supplies programmes have provided learning materials to pupils and students in public schools, and older persons have also been encouraged to learn how to read and write under the GIFA Adult Education Initiative. These programmes, carried out consistently, demonstrate that education is a major pillar and one of the most powerful tools for breaking cycles of poverty and social exclusion. We are aggressively fighting to ensure that no child is left behind.”

“When organisations like El-Sharon Educonsult Plus Limited produce high-quality, specialised literature like these Science and Technology textbooks, you are directly reinforcing the work that we do at GIFA in support of the ARISE Agenda. You are giving our children the weapon of knowledge to break the shackles of poverty and vulnerability.”

“As the Chairperson of this historic event, I call on corporate organisations, educational administrators, Local Government Chairmen, philanthropists, and other stakeholders gathered here today, to invest heavily in these books. Buying these books and distributing them to our public schools is an investment in the next generation of Engineers, Scientists, and Tech Innovators in Akwa Ibom State.”

Earlier in her address, the Lead Consultant of El-Sharon Educonsult Plus Limited, Mrs Veronica Ibanga, highlighted the organisation's commitment to promoting quality education through educational publishing, consultancy, and curriculum development services.

Mrs Ibanga, a proficient writer and renowned publisher with 36 books to her credit, explained that the Intermediate Science and Technology series was carefully developed in line with the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) curriculum to enhance effective teaching and learning in primary schools.

She noted that the company has earned the confidence of many educational institutions through the quality and relevance of its instructional materials, adding that its publications have been adopted by several schools within and beyond Akwa Ibom State. She reaffirmed the organisation's commitment to providing innovative educational solutions that support academic excellence and national development.

High point of the event, which held at the NULGE Hall, Uyo, was the unveiling and formal launch of the six-volume textbook series by the coordinator of the office of the First Lady and other stakeholders with goodwill messages and a cultural dance presentation by the Word of Faith Schools Cultural Troupe.


Media Unit
Office of the First Lady, AKS
June 10, 2026.

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Day 9: Say No to Female Ge***al Mutilation

Cutting, tearing, damaging or disfiguring any part of a woman or girl’s va**na is a crime, not tradition. Under the law, no parent, elder, or anyone has the right to harm a girl’s body. Female Ge***al Mutilation causes bleeding, infection, trauma, and lifelong pain. If you carry out FGM or support it, you’ve committed a crime and can go to prison for 4 years when convicted. A woman’s body deserves respect and protection, not harm and shame. We strongly condemn FGM in all forms.

If you know anywhere that this heinous crime is still happening, please speak up. Don’t keep quiet. *Call 09169009111* or visit Room 8, Ministry of Justice, State Secretariat, Uyo.

LADY HELEN ENO OBAREKI CELEBRATES ESA NDIDIA AT ONE
..Commends Young Entrepreneur’s Resilience and Growth

The Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Lady Helen Eno Obareki, this evening visited Esa Ndidia, a growing food business run by Blessing Gabriel Emah, as it marks its first anniversary.

The visit was a moment of encouragement and recognition for the young entrepreneur, whose commitment to quality local cuisine has steadily earned her a loyal customer base within the community.

Lady Obareki commended Blessing’s resilience, creativity, and dedication to building a sustainable business, noting that small and medium-scale enterprises like Esa Ndidia play a vital role in driving economic growth and empowering women.

"‎We came out to support a local business that is big on culture and just showcasing the rich heritage of Akwa Ibom. We came here, ate some very delicious indigenous delicacies from the ekpang nkukwo, afang soup, to ndek iyak, okra soup to isiewu. All sorts! You name it, were served and everything was truly, truly delicious. And I'm just happy that a daughter of the soil, an Akwa Ibomite who went through the training from Ibom L.E.D courtesy of His Excellency, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, has taken the initiative to open a place as beautiful as this to showcase the true heritage and culture of Akwa Ibom State."
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She urged other young people, especially women, to take inspiration from such bold steps into entrepreneurship, emphasizing that with consistency, passion, and the right support, small ideas can grow into impactful ventures.

"We are indeed so proud of her and I came here with my team, with friends and family to support her, and to show her that we see her and this is what we encourage and she's definitely a true example of what the ARISE Agenda is about. So today was just to come and encourage her and to also do a shout out to other youths that you can do something with your hands. The government supports you. We have systems in place. If you have a dream, we are here to hold your hand while you achieve it. Shout out to Blessing. Continue the work that you're doing. We see you, Akwa Ibom appreciates you. Thank you for doing your part in putting Akwa Ibom on the map," she added.

The Coordinator reaffirmed the commitment of the Office of the First Lady, through the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA), to continue supporting and promoting women-led businesses across the state.

A visibly emotional Blessing Gabriel Emah expressed gratitude over the visit by Lady Helen Eno Obareki, describing it as a morale booster and an encouragement to keep pushing forward.

The Coordinator was accompanied by some members of the First Family and staff of the office of the First Lady, including one of her protocol personnel, Mrs Mercy Peters who was born on June 8.

Media Unit
Office of the First Lady, AKS
June 8, 2026.