The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State has reiterated its commitment to empowering women to take up leadership roles across various sectors of the economy. Dr. Mary Idele, the National Women Leader of the APC in Delta State, articulated this message during the Delta State APC Women Empowerment Summit 2024. The summit, highlighted as both a celebration of achievements and a clarion call for action, sought to recognize and harness the significant potential within women, encouraging them to leverage their voices, skills, and talents for broader societal benefit. Idele’s emphasis on women breaking barriers showcases the ongoing global movement towards women leadership and manifests in an urgent need for personal growth that translates into community enhancement.
In her address, Dr. Idele outlined the summit’s theme, “Empowered to Serve,” which resonates with the purpose and intent behind the empowerment movement. She articulated that empowerment extends beyond individual success, focusing instead on the transformative impact women can make on their communities. Idele emphasized that true empowerment is about channeling acquired strengths and resources into meaningful actions that benefit not just the privileged few but society as a whole. She highlighted various arenas—such as boardrooms, marketplaces, and homes—where women’s influence can shape futures, establishing the importance of women as active participants in the socio-economic landscape.
The summit saw the participation of over 2,000 women from all local government areas in Delta State. Stella Okotete, the Executive Director of Business Development at the Nigerian Export-Import Bank and a key leader in the party, acknowledged the unwavering support of women during past elections, which resulted in substantial political success for the APC. Under her leadership, two senators and numerous legislative members secured seats, illustrating the integral role women play in political mobilization and party strength. Okotete expressed her belief in the positive potential of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aiming to deliver progress and prosperity for APC supporters.
Additionally, Mrs. Tina Okwudili, the State Women Leader, reported that over 500 women traders had recently joined the party and unveiled initiatives focused on economic empowerment: the Delta State Progressives Cooperative and Agricultural Farmers Schemes. These initiatives signify a new collaborative effort among women to forge a path toward financial independence and leadership within a larger political framework. Okwudili’s call for unity among women aligns with a vision for a reorganized and revitalized party movement, advocating that collective actions will drive future success for both the party and the state.
The event also served as a platform to recognize and commend Stella Okotete for her leadership qualities and influence in sustaining party coherence within Delta State. Party members, including the State Chairman’s representative, praised Okotete, referring to her as the “Lioness of the Niger Delta,” celebrating her relentless efforts towards the consistency and elevation of the party’s profile. The acknowledgment extended to various members of the State House of Assembly, who highlighted her impactful welfare programs and leadership skills, reinforcing the idea that exceptional leadership is pivotal for long-term political victories.
Furthermore, the summit honored dedicated female party members who have shown loyalty at various levels. Significant financial support was awarded to loyal members, signifying the party’s commitment not only to recognition but also to tangible empowerment. Various amounts were distributed to women including N1 million to exemplary members, alongside smaller allocations for others, demonstrating a commitment to uplift and recognize contributions to the party and community. Such support emphasizes that empowering women is not only an ideological stance but also manifests in actionable programs that directly improve women’s lives and fortify their roles within the political and social arenas, paving the way for future generations of empowered leaders.
