Abia First Lady Tasks Women On Self-Reliance, Creativity

The Wife of the Governor of Abia State and Visitor to Abia State University, Mrs Priscilla Chidinma Otti, has called on members of the Abia State University Women Association (ABSUWA) and women across the state to embrace self-reliance, creativity, and innovation as key strategies to overcome the prevailing economic challenges in the country.

Delivering a lecture on “Economic Well-being of Women” during the 2025 ABSUWA August Meeting held at the University Pavilion, Mrs. Otti, represented by her Senior Special Assistant, Mrs Chinenye Nwaka, emphasized the importance of economic empowerment to societal development.

She noted that when women thrive and excel, families become stronger, children enjoy better education, and communities experience sustainable growth. She further restated her commitment to supporting women-led enterprises, skills development, and entrepreneurship as critical pathways to achieving financial independence for women across Abia State.

Declaring the meeting open, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ndukwe J. Okeudo, warmly welcomed participants to the historic annual gathering. He expressed profound appreciation to the Governor, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, for his unflinching support to the University and the state at large.

The Vice-Chancellor also paid glowing tribute to the First Lady for her steadfast commitment to women’s empowerment and acknowledged the President of ABSUWA and wife of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Geraldine N. Okeudo, for her exemplary leadership. He further commended all members, alumni, and distinguished guests for honoring the occasion.

In her address, the President of ABSUWA, Professor Geraldine N. Okeudo commended the Governor for the ongoing infrastructural transformation within Abia State University, particularly the renovation of hostels and the construction of a modern 10,000-capacity hostel.

She also lauded the First Lady for her continuous encouragement of women-focused initiatives, while specially appreciating ABSUWA members, alumni, and supporters for their solidarity and contributions toward the association’s vision.

Delivering her goodwill message, the wife of the Pro-Chancellor, Mrs. Eunice Agwu, conveyed deep appreciation to the Governor and First Lady for their commitment to education and women’s empowerment.

She equally acknowledged the Vice-Chancellor, the ABSUWA President, the Registrar, traditional rulers, and participants, reaffirming the invaluable role of women in building stronger families and communities.

The colorful event featured special cultural performances by the Arise Women and the Uturu Women, which added vibrancy and inspiration to the day’s proceedings.

The highlight of the meeting was the presentation of a special award to the Abia First Lady by the Vice-President of the Student Union Government (SUG), in recognition of her steadfast support to the University.