The Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Sen. Godswill Akpabio, on Wednesday pledged continued support for Nigerian women under the umbrella of the National Council for Women Societies (NCWS).
The minister made the pledged when the newly elected president of NCWS, Hajiya Lami Lau, led a delegation on a visit to him in Abuja.
Akpabio congratulated the newly elected executives and urged Nigerian women to continue praying for the unity and peace of the country.
“Your tenure will bring more empowerment to women and also bring a lot of employment opportunities.
“As a governor, I used the opportunity to support women and I will continue to use every opportunity to do same.
“Even in my current situation, I will continue to support women now and in the future,’’ he said.
Akpabio promised to respond to the request of the NCWS adding that it was necessary to support women since they are our mothers, sisters and wives.
The minister also thanked the Nigerian women for making an Akwa Ibom indigene their first vice president, urging the new exco to work in unity to properly develop the council.
“It is an exciting thing that one of our own is now the first vice president, I specially congratulate her and all the other executives’ members on their election.
“I know that you will have serious support from the leaders of Nigeria and you will also have support from Almighty God,’’ he said.
Akpabio said that the ongoing Ramadan fasting was unique since it coincided with the Christian fasting period that just ended.
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“We give glory to God that the prayers will be able to move Nigeria forward. All we are asking God to do for Nigerians is to grand us peace, peace that pass human understanding,’’ he said.
Earlier, the NCWS president solicited the support of the minister for training of women within the South/South region.
According to her, it will be beneficial if the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs will help in training and empowering 10 women each from the Niger Delta states in skills acquisition.
” The council will also appreciate that you make available a slot for NCWS to be in the board as membership of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs.
”We urge you to please always consult with us on issues concerning women in Nigeria, and implore you further to keep your doors open for us each time we come calling. (NAN)