Women in the coastal areas of Akwa Ibom State have received a significant economic boost following a donation of fishing equipment by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.
Christmas Gift for Coastal Livelihoods
The festive period brought tangible hope to riverine communities as Senate President Godswill Akpabio distributed ten outboard engine fishing boats to selected women and cooperative groups. The ceremony took place on Boxing Day, 26 December 2025, at his country home in Ukana, located within the Essien Udim Local Government Area.
This intervention is part of the Senate President's constituency projects, specifically designed to strengthen the primary source of income for families in areas where fishing is the mainstay. Beneficiaries were carefully selected from various riverine settlements across Akwa Ibom State, reflecting a focus on communities most in need of modern fishing tools.
Inclusive Empowerment Beyond Politics
Speaking at the event, Dr. (Mrs) Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, the wife of the Senate President, praised the initiative for its focus on women from the coastal regions. She emphasized that the selection was based on economic need, not political affiliation. "These women were chosen because fishing is their lifeline," she stated, reinforcing her husband's commitment to supporting vulnerable groups across the state.
In his address, Senator Akpabio acknowledged the unwavering support of Akwa Ibom women and framed the donation as a sustainable empowerment tool. He expressed that the goal was to enable business expansion rather than foster dependency on temporary aid. "I can never forget your prayers, your love and your support," he told the grateful beneficiaries, highlighting the crucial role women play in the state's stability.
Fully-Equipped for Productivity and Safety
Dr. Victor Antai, the Executive Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), provided details on the specifications of the boats. Each unit was delivered fully equipped for immediate use, including:
- Fishing nets
- Refrigerators for preservation
- Fuel tanks
- High-capacity outboard engines
He explained that to cater to different fishing needs, the larger boats were fitted with twin 75-horsepower engines, while the smaller ones came with 40-horsepower engines. This thoughtful configuration aims to enhance both productivity and safety for the fishermen on the waterways.
A Transformative Impact on Women's Economy
The response from the beneficiaries was one of profound gratitude and optimism. Mma Nkoyo Isong, who spoke on behalf of the recipients, described the intervention as life-changing. "Instead of giving us fish, you have empowered us to fish," she remarked, capturing the essence of the sustainable support. She pledged the continued backing of the beneficiaries for Akpabio and his political endeavors.
During the ceremony, only a symbolic number of boats were physically presented, while the names of all individual beneficiaries and cooperative societies were officially announced. This move ensures transparency and acknowledges every recipient of this significant empowerment scheme aimed at fostering economic self-reliance in Akwa Ibom's riverine communities.
