The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has empowered women in riverine communities of Akwa Ibom State with fully equipped fishing boats to boost livelihoods and strengthen local economic activities.
The empowerment programme, which took place on Boxing Day at Senator Akpabio’s country home in Ukana, Essien Udim Local Government Area, is part of his ongoing constituency development initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable income generation.
A total of 10 outboard engine fishing boats were presented to women and cooperative groups drawn from riverine communities where fishing remains the primary source of livelihood. Each boat was fitted with fishing nets, refrigerators for fish preservation, fuel tanks and high-capacity engines. While larger boats were equipped with twin 75-horsepower engines, smaller boats came with 40-horsepower engines to enhance productivity and safety on the waterways.
Speaking during the presentation, Senator Akpabio emphasized the importance of empowering citizens with productive assets rather than offering temporary assistance. He commended the women for their continued support and acknowledged their crucial role in the economic and social development of the state.
“I can never forget your prayers, your love and your support. Today, I am empowering you not just to catch fish, but to build stronger, self-reliant livelihoods for your families and communities,” he said.
Also speaking, the wife of the Senate President, Dr. Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, noted that the initiative reflects a deep understanding of the realities of riverine life, stressed that sustainable economic upliftment must be anchored on access to modern tools and opportunities.
Beneficiaries of the programme described the gesture as transformative, saying the new boats and equipment would significantly expand their fishing capacity, improve income stability and enhance their contribution to local food security.
“This support will enable us to fish with dignity and grow our operations for lasting benefit,” a beneficiary said.
The fishing boat empowerment initiative aligned with Senator Akpabio’s broader vision of strengthening grassroots economies, enhancing community resilience and promoting sustainable development across Akwa Ibom’s riverine belt.
