Akpabio Donates Fishing Boats to Akwa Ibom Women at Christmas

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, on Boxing Day donated 10 outboard engine fishing boats to women and cooperative societies from Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District under his constituency empowerment programme.

The presentation was held at Akpabio’s country home in Ukana, Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, according to a statement released in Abuja on Saturday by his media team.

The beneficiaries were selected from riverine communities across the state, where fishing remains a major source of livelihood.

Speaking at the event, the Senate President’s wife, Dr (Mrs) Ekaette Akpabio, expressed appreciation to her husband for remembering women in the riverine areas of Akwa Ibom. She noted that the beneficiaries were drawn from the Eket Senatorial District, adding that Akpabio, as Senate President, represents all Nigerians regardless of senatorial boundaries.

In his address, Akpabio praised the women for their consistent support, explaining that the empowerment initiative was motivated by the loyalty and prayers he has always received from women in the state.

“I can never forget your love; I can never forget your prayers; I can never forget your support. We are still standing strong because you are still praying,” he said.

He added, “Let me thank you in advance for the support you will give to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027. Today I’m making you also fishers of men. The nets will be for you to drag as many votes as possible for the All Progressives Congress, APC, in your Senatorial District.”

Akpabio also commended Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, saying, “The President is very happy with Akwa Ibom State. Governor Umo Eno has made us proud. He is touching lives and making sure that human capital development is a major focus of his administration. Mine is to urge you to support him.”

Earlier, the Executive Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr Victor Antai, who coordinated the exercise, said each boat was equipped with fishing nets, a refrigerator and extra fuel tanks.

He explained that the larger boats come with double 75-horsepower engines, while the smaller ones are fitted with 40-horsepower engines.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mma Nkoyo Isong thanked Akpabio and his wife for empowering the women to improve their means of livelihood, promising sustained support for the Senate President and his party in future elections.

Only a few of the boats were displayed for symbolic presentation, as Akpabio read out the names of individual beneficiaries and cooperative groups selected for the project.

Opinion Nigeria News