Akwa Ibom women endorse Tinubu, Akpabio, Eno Ahead of 2027 … 5,000 women gather in Uyo as First Lady marks International Women’s Day … As First Lady commissions ultra-modern Senior Citizens Centre Thousands of women in Akwa Ibom State on Saturday endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office ahead of the 2027 general elections. The endorsement was made during the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration held in Uyo, the state capital, which attracted more than 5,000 women and was attended by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. At the event, the women also endorsed the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for another term in their respective offices. In her address, the First Lady described the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day, “Rights, Justice, Action for All Women and Girls”, as a strong call for collective action toward improving the welfare and opportunities available to women. She stressed that protecting the rights of women and girls through access to education, economic empowerment, healthcare, social protection and equity is vital for national development. “This year’s theme, ‘Rights, Justice, Action for All Women and Girls,’ is a call to action. Protecting the rights of women and girls by ensuring access to education, economic empowerment, health, social protection and equity is an investment in our collective future,” she said. Mrs Tinubu urged women to become positive agents of change within their families, communities and workplaces. “I encourage every woman here to be a positive tool for change in your homes, businesses, communities and your state at large. When women lead with purpose, the entire nation feels the impact,” she added. The First Lady also highlighted the reforms initiated by the current administration, noting that they are aimed at laying a strong foundation for sustainable development. “The reforms already started by this administration are designed to create a lasting legacy of transformation and prosperity for all Nigerians. We must protect the progress we have made and keep building on it,” she said. “A house is not built in a day, but when the foundation is solid, the structure will stand the test of time. Let us remain united and focused to protect the gains we have made under this administration.” Speaking at the event, Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended women for the critical role they play in stabilising families and society. Governor Umo Eno also acknowledged the contributions of women, noting that the success of any society depends largely on their commitment and resilience. The highlight of the celebration was the formal endorsement of President Tinubu, Governor Eno and Senate President Akpabio for another term in office. The declaration was read by the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, alongside other prominent women leaders in the state. Earlier in the day, the First Lady commissioned an ultra-modern Senior Citizens Centre in Uyo named in her honour. Speaking at the inauguration, Mrs Tinubu emphasised the importance of caring for the elderly. “A society that honours its elderly is one that understands responsibility, gratitude and continuity,” she said. She also urged families and communities to continue to support ageing relatives, stressing that government initiatives must be complemented by societal care and compassion. “Government can provide structures, but society must provide warmth and care,” she said, encouraging other states to replicate the initiative. The centre, which was conceptualised by the late wife of the governor, Pastor Patience Eno, is designed to provide elderly citizens with access to healthcare, recreation and social support in a safe and dignified environment.