A large gathering of women from various communities in Akwa Ibom State assembled in Uyo on Saturday, where they openly declared their backing for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to seek another term in office during the 2027 general elections.
The show of support formed part of activities marking the 2026 celebration of International Women’s Day, an event that brought together thousands of participants who combined the celebration of women’s achievements with expressions of political support.
The gathering, which attracted more than 5,000 women from across the state, took place in the Akwa Ibom State capital and was attended by Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu.
The event served not only as a platform to celebrate women’s achievements but also as a moment for political expression, as the participants voiced their support for the president’s leadership and policies.
During the ceremony, the women also endorsed Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno for another term in their respective positions.
According to several speakers at the gathering, the endorsement reflects the women’s belief that continuity in leadership would help sustain development initiatives and social programmes in the state and across the country.
The formal declaration of support was presented by the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Akon Eyakenyi, who spoke on behalf of women groups and leaders present at the event.
She said the endorsement followed consultations among women organisations and community leaders who felt that the achievements recorded so far justified backing the leaders for another tenure.
Eyakenyi noted that the Tinubu re-election endorsement was a reflection of women’s appreciation for policies they believe are gradually improving economic opportunities, social welfare, and political inclusion.
She added that the participation of thousands of women at the event showed the level of enthusiasm and commitment among female voters in the state.
In her keynote speech, the First Lady emphasised the importance of empowering women and protecting their rights.
Reflecting on the theme of the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration—“Rights, Justice, Action for All Women and Girls”—she said the theme highlights the urgent need to ensure that women and girls have access to opportunities that will enable them to thrive.
Mrs Tinubu explained that ensuring equality for women through education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and social protection is essential to national progress.
According to her, when women are empowered and supported, the benefits extend beyond individual families to the entire nation.
She urged women across the country to actively participate in community development and leadership, noting that their influence can bring about positive change in society.
She also encouraged them to support policies and initiatives that promote inclusive growth and social justice.
While speaking about governance and development, the First Lady pointed out that the reforms initiated by the current administration are aimed at creating long-term prosperity for Nigerians.
She stressed that the policies being implemented require patience and unity to deliver their full benefits.
According to her, the journey toward national transformation is a gradual process that requires strong foundations.
She noted that the administration is focused on building systems and institutions that will endure beyond the present time.
“The progress we are seeing today is part of a long-term plan to strengthen the nation,” she said, while urging citizens to remain supportive of the government’s vision for the future.
Senate President Akpabio, who also addressed the gathering, praised the resilience and dedication of women in Akwa Ibom and across Nigeria.
He acknowledged that women play a central role in maintaining family stability, nurturing communities, and promoting social harmony.
Governor Eno also commended women for their contributions to development in the state.
He said their commitment to family values, community service, and entrepreneurship has helped strengthen the social fabric of society.
According to the governor, women remain essential partners in governance and development, adding that their involvement in decision-making processes helps create balanced and inclusive policies.
Earlier in the day, the First Lady inaugurated a newly built Senior Citizens Centre in Uyo, a facility named in her honour.
The centre was established to provide support and services for elderly residents, including healthcare assistance, recreational activities, and social interaction opportunities.
While commissioning the facility, Mrs Tinubu stressed the importance of caring for older members of society.
She explained that societies that respect and support their elderly population demonstrate gratitude and responsibility toward those who contributed to building the nation.
She encouraged families and communities to continue playing active roles in caring for ageing relatives, noting that government programmes alone cannot address all the needs of elderly citizens.
“Government can provide the infrastructure and systems, but compassion and daily care must come from society and families,” she said, while calling on other states to adopt similar initiatives.
The centre, which provides a safe and comfortable environment for senior citizens, was originally conceived by the late wife of the governor, Patience Eno.
The project was designed to promote dignity, health, and social engagement among elderly residents of the state.
As the event concluded, the large turnout of women and their collective endorsement highlighted the growing political engagement of women in Akwa Ibom.
Observers noted that such mobilisation could play a significant role in shaping voter dynamics as the country moves closer to the 2027 elections, where the question of Tinubu re-election will likely dominate political discussions across Nigeria.
Ireport247news
