Calabar, the Cross River State capital is abuzz with the arrival of 22 wives of state governors from across Nigeria for their 2025 annual retreat.
The Nigeria Governors’ Spouses Forum is set to strategize on ways to promote social welfare, gender inclusion, and public health in the country.
Addressing the gathering, Cross Rivers State governor, Prince Bassey Otu, emphasised the importance of inclusivity, pledging his support for the Reserved Seats for Women Bill, which is before the National Assembly.
“Inclusivity is key to progress, and we must ensure that women are represented in legislative bodies,” he said.
Governor Otu highlighted his administration’s commitment to gender-focused policies, including the introduction of six-month paid maternity leave for female civil servants and the upgrading of primary healthcare facilities across the state.
Chairperson of the Forum and wife of Kwara State governor, Prof Olufolake Abdulrazaq, expressed gratitude to Governor Otu for hosting the retreat and lauded his achievements in infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
She noted that the Forum has made significant strides in promoting gender equality, including the domestication of the Violence Against Persons Act and the establishment of shelters for survivors of gender-based violence.
The wives of the governors’ visit is expected to raise awareness and galvanise support for women’s rights and social welfare initiatives in Nigeria.
