As the curtains close on Governor Samuel Ortom’s eight-year administration in Benue State, Nigeria, it is a fitting time to pay tribute to the outgoing First Lady, Mrs. Eunice Ortom. Throughout her tenure, Mrs. Ortom has left an indelible mark on the state, championing causes close to her heart and advocating for the empowerment of women and youth. Recently honored with the Leadership and Excellence Award at an international women’s conference in Kigali, Rwanda, Mrs. Ortom’s dedication and impact have garnered well-deserved recognition.
Eliminating Harmful Widowhood Practices and Empowering Benue Youths:
Mrs. Eunice Ortom has been a tireless advocate for the elimination of harmful widowhood practices, recognizing the importance of protecting vulnerable women in society. Through her initiative and influence, she has engaged in sensitization campaigns, partnering with NGOs and communities to raise awareness about the rights and dignity of widows. Her commitment to addressing this issue has sparked positive change and laid the groundwork for a more equitable and compassionate society.
Mrs. Ortom’s unwavering support for youth empowerment is commendable. With a vision to create opportunities for young people in Benue State, she collaborated with a non-governmental organization to provide entrepreneurship training to 600 youths. By equipping them with essential skills, knowledge, and resources, she has played a pivotal role in shaping a generation of young entrepreneurs, paving the way for a brighter future.
Promoting a Reading Culture and Encouraging Women in Leadership:
Recognizing the transformative power of education, Mrs. Ortom embarked on initiatives to reinforce a reading culture among pupils in Benue. Through her dedicated efforts, she enhanced access to books, organized reading competitions, and facilitated programs to instill a love for reading among children. By nurturing a passion for learning, she has empowered young minds and nurtured a generation of knowledge seekers.
Moreover, Mrs. Ortom has consistently advocated for women’s leadership and representation in various spheres. Her passionate call to women to aspire to leadership positions has been instrumental in breaking gender barriers and inspiring a new wave of female leaders in Benue State. By challenging traditional norms and advocating for inclusivity, she has paved the way for women to assert their rightful place in decision-making processes.
Championing Economic Empowerment and Resilience:
In the face of economic challenges, Mrs. Eunice Ortom mobilized Benue women to take proactive steps to mitigate the effects of recession. Through collective efforts, she galvanized women to explore entrepreneurial ventures, harnessing their skills and creativity to generate income and support their families. Her dedication to ensuring the economic well-being of women has empowered countless households and strengthened the resilience of communities.
A Parting Tribute and Global Recognition:
As Mrs. Eunice Ortom concludes her role as the First Lady of Benue State, her impact and legacy will endure. Her unwavering commitment to advancing women’s rights, empowering youth, and fostering inclusive leadership has set a precedent for future leaders to follow. Her recent recognition with the Leadership and Excellence Award from Duchess International magazine at the international women’s conference in Kigali, Rwanda, further attests to the significance and impact of her work.
Mrs. Eunice Ortom’s journey as Benue’s exemplary First Lady has been defined by compassion, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of progress. Through her various initiatives, she has inspired change, uplifted communities, and paved the way for a more inclusive and empowered society. As Benue bids farewell to a trailblazer, the legacy of Mrs. Ortom will continue to shine as a beacon of hope and a testament to the transformative power of leadership and service.
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Joseph Omoniyi
