UYO, Akwa Ibom – As part of efforts aimed at advocating for more women in leadership roles in the public sector, Women in Management, Business and Public Service (WIMBIZ), has taken its courtesy visit to the Akwa-Ibom State Government – to bridge the gender gap and advocate for increased representation of women in leadership roles, particularly within the public sector.
Omowunmi Akingbohungbe, Executive Director of WIMBIZ, emphasised the importance of strategic partnerships with government institutions to accelerate gender inclusion.
She reiterated WIMBIZ’s commitment to advocating for policies that create more opportunities for women to thrive, both in the private and public sectors. She noted that “the work we do today is laying a strong foundation for the women of tomorrow.”
On her part, Hon. Inebehe Silas Etukudo, Commissioner for Women Affairs & Social Welfare, expressed strong support for WIMBIZ’s mission, commending the organisation’s impactful work and affirming that initiatives like these are essential to breaking long-standing gender barriers. She highlighted the state’s strides in female political representation, noting that five out of 32 Local Government Chairpersons are women, and all Vice Chairpersons are women, signalling progress toward equitable leadership.
In the same vein, WIMBIZ has pledged not to relent, as it continues to mentor more girls between the ages of 14 and 18 years, to guide them through leadership workshops and empower them with the confidence to dream beyond their circumstances.
Speaking during the opening ceremony at Community Secondary School Aka Offot, Uyo, Akwa-Ibom, Omowunmi Akingbohungbe urged the girls to effectively use their time as it is a major determinant towards a successful future.
The One-day Mentoring Programme is designed to provide, equip and empower young girls in public secondary schools between the ages of 14 and 18 years with life skills that will boost their confidence and build their leadership capacity; thereby preparing them for post-secondary education. Beneficiaries of the program are mentored by accomplished female professionals in various fields who have a commitment to the development of the girl child.
The objective of this programme is to shape the mindset of students and expose them to vital skills for success in life. We connect young girls with appropriate Big Sisters in various fields.
ABOUT WIMBIZ
WIMBIZ (Women in Management, Business, and Public Service) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting and supporting women in leadership roles. With a history spanning 24 years, WIMBIZ has implemented various programmes that inspire, empower, and advocate for greater representation of women in both the public and private sectors. They have a network of over 3,357 accomplished women who contribute to their initiatives in management, business, and public service. WIMBIZ collaborates with reputable domestic and international organisations to deliver impactful programs, positively influencing over 344,335 women to excel in their careers and businesses.
