By Edem Ekpo Calabar
In a heartwarming show of appreciation and empowerment, the Wife of the Cross River State Governor, Bishop (Mrs.) Eyoanwan Otu, has honoured street sweepers under the Calabar Urban Development Authority (CUDA) for their unrelenting efforts in keeping the city clean, describing them as silent heroes behind Calabar’s reputation as Nigeria’s cleanest city.
The event, held in Calabar, saw the First Lady unveil a collaborative empowerment initiative with Zenith Bank and First City Monument Bank (FCMB) aimed at providing the hardworking women with alternative sources of income through Point of Sale (POS) businesses.
No fewer than 30 CUDA women received brand-new POS machines and start-up capital as part of the first phase of the initiative. Bishop Otu assured that the present administration remains mindful of their sacrifices and is committed to improving their welfare.
“Your tireless work is not going unnoticed. You are the reason Calabar remains clean and admired across Nigeria. We are not only applauding you but also taking steps to support you economically,” she said.
Also speaking at the event, Mrs. Ekanem Asuquo, Zonal Manager of Zenith Bank, commended the First Lady’s compassionate leadership, describing the initiative as a model for inclusive development.
“Zenith Bank is proud to be part of this life-changing partnership. We are ready to work with the state to cushion the effect of current economic realities by reaching those at the grassroots,” she stated.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs, who spoke at the event, expressed delight at the consistent focus on women’s issues under the Otu-led administration, especially through targeted interventions addressing gender-based violence and harmful cultural practices.
“Her Excellency is walking the talk. This administration is creating safe and enabling spaces for women to thrive with dignity,” she said.
Also in attendance were the Commissioners for Social Welfare, Helen Isamoh, and Humanitarian Affairs, Bishop (Mrs.) Margaret Ene Ita, both of whom applauded the initiative and encouraged the CUDA women to remain committed to their duties, assuring them of more rewards to come.
In addition to the POS machines, over 200 women received bags of rice, wrappers, and cash gifts as part of the First Lady’s outreach programme.
The emotional highpoint of the event came with the surprise presentation of a Toyota Corolla car and ₦2 million cash gift to Mikki, a rising gospel artist from Cross River State, in recognition of his outstanding performance at the just-concluded Nigerian Idol show.
In their remarks, several women sweepers expressed heartfelt gratitude to the First Lady for what they described as a “life-changing gesture” and pledged to continue working hard to keep Calabar green and clean
“We feel seen, we feel valued, and we are grateful,” one of the beneficiaries said.