The Nigerian Government has empowered women and cooperative groups in Akwa Ibom State with fishing boats and equipment as part of efforts to strengthen livelihoods and support small-scale economic activities in riverine communities.
The empowerment initiative, implemented through a constituency development intervention, saw the distribution of 10 fully equipped outboard engine fishing boats to beneficiaries drawn from riverine areas of Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District, where fishing remains a major source of income.
The presentation took place in Ukana, Essien Udim Local Government Area of the state, according to a statement issued by the media office of the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.
Each fishing boat was fitted with essential tools to enhance productivity, including fishing nets, refrigerators for fish preservation, and additional fuel tanks. Larger boats were equipped with double 75-horsepower engines, while smaller ones carried 40-horsepower engines, ensuring suitability for different fishing operations.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Ekaette Akpabio highlighted the importance of supporting women in riverine communities, noting that access to modern fishing equipment would improve income generation, reduce post-harvest losses, and enhance household livelihoods.
The empowerment initiative is expected to strengthen cooperative-based fishing enterprises, improve productivity, and promote sustainable income for women engaged in artisanal fishing across the benefiting communities.
Beneficiaries welcomed the intervention, describing it as a timely boost that would expand their fishing capacity and improve economic stability. Speaking on behalf of the women, one of the beneficiaries said the support would enable them to scale their operations and contribute more meaningfully to local economic development.
The initiative aligns with broader government efforts to support grassroots enterprises, enhance food production, and empower women-led cooperatives within Nigeria’s coastal and riverine economies.
