{
  "id": 4986201,
  "title": "VC tasks Abia women on empowerment schemes",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/02/vc-tasks-abia-women-on-empowerment-schemes",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-02T01:48:39.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Punch Nigeria",
    "slug": "punch-nigeria",
    "url": "https://punchng.com/vc-tasks-abia-women-on-empowerment-schemes/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Professor Ursula Ngozi-Akanwa, the Vice Chancellor of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, urged Abia women to utilize the state's empowerment programs to succeed in their ventures, rather than merely surviving. This message came during the Abia Women August Delegate Conference (AWADEC) 2026, where Ngozi-Akanwa delivered the keynote address.\n\nThe 2026 theme, \"Abia Women: Empowered to Thrive,\" signifies the culmination of a four-year effort to educate women on business growth. Ngozi-Akanwa commended Mrs. Priscilla Otti, the wife of Abia State's Governor, for her unwavering commitment to women's development. She explained that when women are provided not only material support but also knowledge, confidence, opportunities, and a platform to thrive, they can transform not only their lives but also their families, communities, and the economy.\n\nNgozi-Akanwa praised the governor's wife for her flagship initiatives, which include the Dignity Homes Initiative for widows, skills acquisition programs, business grants, and advocacy against gender-based violence. She also acknowledged Governor Alex Otti for fostering a conducive environment for women through investments in infrastructure, healthcare, education, the Safe Tent Care Initiative, and grants to rural women. Ngozi-Akanwa emphasized that while government assistance is crucial, women must take ownership of their empowerment by supporting and mentoring each other, embracing education and skill development, and promoting peace within their homes.\n\nShe challenged the women to \"dare to dream again, this time louder,\" to seek opportunities instead of excuses, and to stand united against division. Whatever their circumstances, Ngozi-Akanwa urged them not to settle for mere survival when they possess the potential to thrive. She concluded by encouraging the attendees to leave the conference empowered, determined, and united, ready to thrive.",
  "summary": "Abia women are urged to leverage state empowerment schemes to thrive in business, not just survive. Learn about key initiatives and calls to action. Read More: https://punchng.com/vc-tasks-abia-women-on-empowerment-schemes/",
  "key_points": [
    "Professor Ursula Ngozi-Akanwa urges Abia women to utilize empowerment programs.",
    "2026 theme emphasizes women's transformation through education and support.",
    "Governor Alex Otti and Priscilla Otti champion women's initiatives and infrastructure investments."
  ],
  "editors_take": "The Vice Chancellor's address underscores a shift from mere survival to empowerment and thriving, highlighting the role of support systems, education, and unity in unlocking women's potential in Abia State.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Punch",
        "title": "VC tasks Abia women on empowerment schemes",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/02/vc-tasks-abia-women-on-empowerment-schemes-4986236",
        "published": "2026-09-02T01:48:39.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}