The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, has commended his Senior Special Assistant on Female Mobilisation, Lady Edna Udeme, for her exceptional efforts in promoting self-reliance and economic empowerment among young women in the state.
Governor Eno gave the commendation on Saturday, November 1, 2025, during the 9th anniversary and graduation/empowerment ceremony of the fifth batch of 200 trainees of the Female Youth Association (Purple Girls) — an initiative founded by Lady Edna Udeme. The event was held in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.
Represented by the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Lady Helen Eno Obareki, the Governor described Lady Edna as “a true ambassador of the ARISE Agenda”, lauding her dedication to youth development and entrepreneurship.
“We are celebrating a movement today. I’m happy and honoured to be here. Lady Edna Udeme, you’re doing a phenomenal job. This is a true representation of what the ARISE Agenda stands for. I am indeed proud of you and all that you have achieved over the years,” he said.
“Thank you for the training and empowerment — you’re giving these young women a source of livelihood.”
In recognition of her efforts, the Governor announced a support grant of ₦20 million for the academy and urged other political appointees to emulate Lady Edna’s initiative, noting that such efforts would help reduce unemployment in the state.
“Just imagine if everyone empowered by government gave back in their own little way; our state would be so much better for it,” Governor Eno added.
He also congratulated the graduating trainees and encouraged them to apply their newly acquired skills productively to improve their lives and contribute to their communities.
Governor Eno and Lady Obareki were later presented with awards of recognition for their support and contributions to the success of the organisation.
Earlier in her remarks, Lady Edna Udeme explained that the Female Youth Association was established out of a passion to empower young women to become self-reliant and contribute meaningfully to society. She thanked Governor Umo Eno for his continuous support and appreciated individuals and organisations that have partnered with the group over the years.
She reaffirmed the Association’s loyalty to the ARISE Agenda and support for the Governor’s second-term bid.
In their goodwill messages, the Chairperson of Nsit Ibom Local Government Area, Hon. Oto Aaron, and the Grand Matron of the Association, Mrs. Funmi Nkanga, wife of a former Military Governor, praised Lady Edna for her vision and dedication to women’s empowerment.
The high point of the event was the presentation of empowerment materials to the graduates, including sewing machines, hairdressing kits, wig-making tools, makeup and beauty equipment, baking tools, catering items, and photography and videography kits.