The wife of the Ebonyi governor, Mary-Maudline Nwifuru, has presented N200,000 each to 13 female traders to boost their small-scale businesses as part of activities to mark the International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration.

Mrs Nwifuru made the presentation on Saturday during the grand finale to mark the 2026 edition of the celebration in Abakaliki with the theme, “Give to Gain”.

The event is observed every March 8 to recognise the achievements, resilience and invaluable contributions of women in every area of life.

She disclosed that the women were carefully selected from the 13 local government areas of the state.

The governor’s wife emphasised that empowering women was not optional but essential for sustainable development.

She described the theme of the year as a “social engagement and spiritual upliftment”, adding that activities in the state began with a prayer and fasting summit to promote healthy living and physical well-being.

“Under the leadership of my husband, Gov Francis Nwifuru, the administration has continued to create enabling environments for women to thrive in business, agriculture, governance, and enterprise.

“Today, we celebrate the remarkable contributions of women and to reflect on the powerful theme.

“It is truly inspiring to see women from across the state come together in unity, faith, and purpose. Your presence here today demonstrates the resilience, strength, and collective spirit that define the women of Ebonyi state,” she stated.

In his remarks, Governor Francis Nwifuru, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Grace Umezurike, encouraged women to advance in basic education and remain focused.

Some of the beneficiaries thanked the governor’s wife for her magnanimity and compassion for Ebonyi women and prayed for God’s blessings upon her.

The event featured a magazine, “Black Diamond”, unveiled by the governor, showcasing activities of his wife’s pet project, Better Health for Rural Women, Children and Internally Displaced Foundation. 

(NAN)