The wife of Ebonyi State Governor Chief (Mrs) Mary Maudline Nwifuru has received in audience the British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ms Gill Lever, in her office centenary city Abakaliki.
Receiving the guest on behalf of the State government, the Governor's wife expressed deep gratitude for the support and goodwill of the British High Commission, especially in promoting trade, investments, and cultural exchange between the two nations, and sought the continued partnership to foster sustainable development while wishing her a happy stay in Ebonyi State.
Mrs. Nwifuru informed the British Deputy High Commissioner that the State government under the watch of her husband prioritized the inclusion of women into various positions of trust which according to her is the first of its kind since the creation of the State ranging from female Deputy Governor, SSG, head of the service, five female commissioners, five SSA's, eleven SA's, two Local Government chairmen, thirteen female vice chairmen and secretaries, thirteen female development center coordinators among others.
The Governor's wife further told the British Deputy high commissioner that her pet (BERWO) has been committed to addressing pressing challenges facing rural dwellers and paving ways for sustainable solutions which includes tackling issues of poverty, promoting second chance education, fostering health care access as well as eradicating gender base violence and vowed to strengthen ties with international partners like UK to enhance development, foster economic growth and create opportunities for the people of the State.
According to Mrs Nwifuru, "The deliberate inclusion of women in the political and administrative fabric of Ebonyi State has been a game-changer. This progressive approach has not only enhanced governance but has also fostered a culture of productivity, transparency, and accountability.
She added that Ebonyi state is known for its rich cultural heritage, abundant natural resources, and hardworking population, especially women.
"As you engage with us during your stay, we hope you will witness firsthand the resilience and resourcefulness of our people. From our thriving agricultural initiatives to our ambitious infrastructural projects, Ebonyi State is a land of potential and promise. We are proud to showcase our achievements while also seeking areas where we can learn and grow through collaboration"
"Ebonyi State offers immense opportunities for collaboration in areas such as agriculture, education, healthcare, and infrastructural development. Our government has classified these sectors as part of our agenda to improve the quality of life for our citizens. We are confident that your visit will open new doors for partnerships that will benefit both our state and the broader Nigerian-British relationship"
"My foundation, Better Health for Rural Women, Children and Internally Displaced Persons Foundation (BERWO), was established with objectives to address the pressing challenges facing our rural dwellers and pave the way for sustainable solutions. Whether it is tackling issues of poverty, promoting second-chance education, fostering healthcare access, or eradicating Gender-Based Violence, our mandate is to leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of progress. And we are open to strengthen ties with international partners like the United Kingdom to enhance development, foster economic growth, and create opportunities for our people"
"On behalf of the government and good people of Ebonyi State, I wish to express our gratitude for the support and goodwill of the British High Commission. Your efforts in promoting trade, investment, and cultural exchange between our nations are deeply appreciated. We assure you of our warm hospitality and a memorable experience during your time in our state"
"As we welcome you to Ebonyi State, we look forward to fruitful discussions and collaborations that will further enhance the bond between our state and the United Kingdom. Together, let us work towards a future of shared prosperity and enduring friendship" Mrs Nwifuru concluded
Earlier in her mission statement, the British Deputy High commissioner Ms Gill Lever expressed satisfaction on the level of women inclusion in the governance of the State.
She said they were in Ebonyi to strengthen women political participation, empowerement, better education and peace building and called on Ebonyi State Government to engage more women in the political activities.
The British Deputy High commissioner applauded the State Governor Chief Francis Nwifuru for exceeding over thirty five women affirmative action in the State.
Mrs Nwifuru was joined in receiving the guest by the commissioners of aviation and transport technology Dr. Ngozi Obichukwu, agriculture and natural resources princess Nkechinyere Iyioku, female house of Assembly members including Hon. Chinyere Nwogbaga and Hon. Esther Agwu.
The event also drew the presence of BERWO team lead Professor Nkechi Echiegu, female council chairmen including Hon. Euphemia Nwali of Ezza South and Hon. Peace Agwu of Ishielu among others.
