By Anietie Akpan
The Women Chamber of Commerce Industry, Mines and Agriculture (WOCCIMA) has bestowed the MSME Champion of Nigeria award upon First Lady of Cross River State, Dr. Eyoanwan Bassey Otu.
The award is in acknowledgment of her impactful work in strengthening women-owned businesses and driving economic growth.
“This award is a testament to Her Excellency’s remarkable strides in empowering women to achieve self-reliance and embrace entrepreneurship,” stated Weyimi Eribo, Director General of WOCCIMA, during the presentation.
Accepting the award on Her Excellency’s behalf, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Gender Mainstreaming, Dr. Inyang Asibong, conveyed the First Lady’s gratitude and renewed dedication, saying ,”Her Excellency views this recognition as a mandate to amplify her efforts…She firmly believes that women empowerment is the cornerstone of sustainable economic development.”
She said Dr Eyonwan emphasized the importance of women’s economic participation, stating, “We are committed to accelerating women’s development in Cross River State. We have made significant progress in promoting enterprise, including our ongoing efforts to secure export licenses, opening doors for our women to compete in the global marketplace.”
On her part, the Executive Director, Business Development, Nexim Bank, Hon. Stella Okotete, also empowered multiple businesses with a grant of N20 million to support their businesses.
The event featured prominent attendees, including Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh (Secretary to the State Government), Dr. Mercy Akpama (Chairman House Committee on Women Affairs, Cross River State House of Assembly), Aisha Aminu (Director General, Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency), and Hon. Edema Irom (Commissioner for Women Affairs), Dr. Glory Effiong (Accountant General) and others.