Honourable Maureen Ijeoma Aghukwa

The Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs, Abia State, Dr. Mrs. Maureen ljeoma Aghukwa was honoured to attend the International Women's Day celebration hosted by Ethnocentrique Ltd at the Nobik International Event Center, where she participated as a keynote Speaker.

The event, themed "Give to Gain: When Women Produce, Industries Grow," highlighted the importance of empowering women through access to opportunities, knowledge, resources, and support systems that enable them to thrive in business and industry.

In her remarks, the Commissioner emphasized that when women are empowered to learn, create, and lead, not only do families benefit, but industries expand and economies flourish.
She encouraged stakeholders to continue investing in women by creating pathways for growth, innovation, and enterprise.

The celebration served as a powerful reminder that when women are given the chance to succeed, society as a whole prospers.

The Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs, Abia State, Dr Mrs Maureen Ijeoma Aghukwa joined the Governor, His Excellency Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, the Deputy Governor, and other top government officials at the Abia Business Roundtable 2026, held at the International Conference Centre Umuahia.
The maiden roundtable, themed "Government Meets Business: Where Vision Meets Enterprise," brought together government leaders, private sector stakeholders, and foreign business partners to explore opportunities for investment and economic growth in Abia State.

Speaking at the event, Governor Alex Otti declared that Abia State is ready for serious investors and entrepreneurs, reaffirming his administration's commitment to creating a business-friendly environment that encourages innovation, partnership, and sustainable development.

Organised by the Abia State Public Private Partnerships and Investments Promotion Office, the forum forms part of the government's ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration with the private sector and accelerate the state's economic transformation.

The Honourable Commissioner's presence underscored the Ministry's commitment to supporting policies and initiatives that promote inclusive economic growth and create opportunities for women and young people across the state.

The Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs, Abia State Dr. Mrs. Maureen ljeoma Aghukwa, represented the Wife of the Governor of Abia State, Her Excellency Priscilla Chidinma Otti, at the handover ceremony of a well-furnished 3-bedroom apartment built for Mrs. Mercy Anosike of Ukome-Ibeku, Umuahia North LGA.
The event, which took place on Thursday, 5th March 2026, at Ukome Ibeku in Umuahia North, was organised by the Office of the Wife of the Governor of Abia State as part of ongoing efforts to support widows and vulnerable members of society.
Representing the First Lady, the Commissioner conveyed her message of compassion and hope, noting that the new home symbolizes dignity, care, and renewed hope for Mrs. Mercy Anosike. The initiative reflects the administration's continued commitment to uplifting widows and empowering vulnerable women across the state.
The ceremony was attended by government officials, community leaders, and wives of the mayors, who gathered to witness the touching moment and celebrate a gesture that reinforces the spirit of compassion, community support, and service to humanity.

The Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs, Abia State Dr. Mrs. Maureen ljeoma Aghukwa, attended the Maiden Edition of the Sensitization Awareness Campaign on Career Prospects in the Nigerian Army, organised by the Army Headquarters Department of Civil-Military Affairs.
The event, held on 5th March 2026 at the International Conference Centre Umuahia, focused on enlightening young people about the diverse career opportunities available in the Nigerian Army.
Delivering her goodwill message, the Commissioner commended the initiative, noting that it goes beyond recruitment to inspire patriotism, discipline, and national development among Nigerian youth. Speaking on the theme,
"Guardian of the Nation: A Clarion Call," she encouraged young people, especially young women to explore the many professional opportunities within the Army and to see military service as a noble path of service, leadership, and nation building.
She also reaffirmed the commitment of the Ministry of Women Affairs to continue supporting initiatives that empower and guide young people toward meaningful and impactful careers.
The campaign concluded with renewed calls for stronger collaboration between the Nigerian Army and communities to inspire a new generation of disciplined and patriotic young Nigerians committed to the unity and progress of the nation

Thursday 26th February 2026, the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr. Mrs.
Maureen ljeoma Aghukwa, joined other dignitaries at the official flag-off ceremony for the distribution of Teaching and Learning Materials (TLMs) and sports equipment to basic education schools across Abia State.
The event, organized by the Abia State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB) in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), was hosted by Her Excellency, Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti, wife of the Governor of Abia State, Alex Chioma Otti.
Also present at the ceremony were the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs Adaeze Chidera Emetu alongside several government officials, education stakeholders, teachers, and pupils. The initiative aims to strengthen the learning environment in public schools by providing essential teaching materials and sports equipment that will support both academic excellence and physical development among students.
The event reflects the Abia State Government's continued commitment to improving the quality of basic education and creating better opportunities for young learners across the state.

The Abia State Launch of the Flow With Confidence initiative was a remarkable and impactful event, dedicated to promoting the dignity, health, and confidence of young girls across the state.
The programme was graciously hosted by Her Excellency, Oluremi Tinubu, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, under the Renewed Hope Initiative. Through this initiative, over 370,000 disposable sanitary pads were donated to schoolgirls across the 36 states and the FCT, reinforcing the commitment to empowering girls through improved menstrual health and hygiene.
Abia State was proudly represented by Her Excellency, Priscilla Chidinma Otti, First Lady of Abia State and State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Initiative, whose leadership and dedication continue to inspire positive change for women and children in the state.
The event, held at the International Conference Centre Ogurube Layout, brought together stakeholders, government officials, educators, and advocates, all united by a shared goal of ensuring that no girl is left behind due to menstrual health challenges.
Also in attendance was the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs, Maureen ljeoma Aghukwa, whose presence further demonstrated the Ministry's unwavering commitment to promoting the welfare, education, and empowerment of women and girls across Abia State.
The Flow With Confidence initiative stands as a powerful reminder that when girls are supported, protected, and empowered, they are better positioned to achieve their full potential. This landmark event has once again reaffirmed Abia State's dedication to building a healthier, more inclusive, and empowered future for every child.

February 19th will remain a memorable day in the history of Akwete, as Her Excellency, Priscilla Otti, paid a purposeful visit to the Akwete Union Women at their union office.
This remarkable visit marked the first time a sitting First Lady personally engaged with these resilient and hardworking women. The atmosphere was filled with joy, pride, and cultural splendour, as the community came out in grand style to welcome her, showcasing the rich heritage and unity of Akwete.
More than a ceremonial visit, Her Excellency's engagement focused on meaningful dialogue and partnership. She took time to understand the challenges and opportunities within the Akwete weaving industry, reaffirming her commitment to supporting its growth and sustainability. Akwete weaving remains a powerful symbol of tradition, economic empowerment, and generational resilience.
She was accompanied by the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs, Maureen ljeoma Aghukwa, whose presence further emphasized the administration's dedication to advancing women's welfare and promoting local enterprise.
This historic engagement reflects a shared vision of preserving culture, empowering women, and strengthening community development for lasting progress across the state.

The Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs, Maureen Ijeoma Aghukwa, participated in a capacity-building seminar on Future Enterprise & Data Architecture for Abia State, held at the Michael Okpara Event Centre.
The programme, organized by the Ministry of Budget and Planning and the Office of the CIO, was designed to equip public sector leaders and stakeholders with practical knowledge on digital transformation, data management, and effective service delivery across Abia State.
The seminar attracted top government functionaries and key stakeholders, with the Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, ably represented by the Deputy Governor, Ikechukwu Emetu.
Dr. Mrs. Aghukwa described the programme as timely and impactful, noting that it will strengthen governance, promote transparency, and enhance policies that support women and vulnerable groups. She reaffirmed her commitment to applying the insights gained to drive inclusive development and improved social services in the state.
The event reflects Abia State's continued dedication to building a skilled, informed, and digitally empowered public sector for sustainable growth.p

On Wednesday, I was deeply honoured to join my beautiful boss and mother of Abia, Her Excellency Priscilla Chidinma Otti, alongside the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, at the commissioning of the Collective Oil Processing Factory in Osusu Abala, Abia State.
This project, implemented under the Nigeria for Women Project (NFWP) by the Ministry of Women Affairs, marks a significant milestone in our journey toward economic empowerment, dignity, and sustainable livelihoods for Abia women.
This facility represents more than infrastructure, it is a gateway to opportunity, self-reliance, and prosperity. I reminded our women that this project belongs to them, and with dedication and unity, it can become a powerful tool for lifting households and communities.
I am truly honoured to serve as the Commissioner overseeing this transformative project, and I remain committed to ensuring its success and long-term impact.
My heartfelt appreciation goes to the Honourable Minister for gracing our state and partnering with us to deliver a project that will uplift and empower our women for generations to come.
Together, we are building a stronger, more prosperous Abia one woman at a time.
_ Dr. Mrs. Maureen Ijeoma Aghukwa, Honorable Commissioner Ministry of Women Affairs, Abia State

Wednesday 19th February 2026 marked a significant milestone in our collective commitment to justice, protection, and dignity for women and girls in Abia State.
I was privileged to join Her Excellency, Mrs Priscilla Chidinma Otti, at the commissioning of the Nchedo Sexual Assault Referral Centre at Abia General Hospital, Aba. This centre stands as a safe haven for survivors, providing immediate medical care, psychosocial support, forensic documentation, legal guidance, and coordinated follow-up in a confidential and supportive environment.
Earlier, we witnessed another landmark achievement with the launch of the Sexual Offenders Register at the Abia State Ministry of Justice in Umuahia, which is a vital tool for prevention, accountability, and restoring hope to survivors.
We were honoured by the presence of the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, who officially commissioned the centre, and His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr Alex C. Otti, whose unwavering support continues to strengthen our resolve.
My sincere appreciation goes to our development partners - the European Union, the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (RoLAC), and International IDEA for their invaluable contributions to strengthening our justice delivery systems.
I also commend the other stakeholders, including my fellow commissioners - the Honourable Commissioners for Justice, Health, Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, for their dedication to ending sexual and gender-based violence in our state.
Together, we are sending a clear message: there will be no safe haven for offenders, and every survivor deserves care, justice, and dignity. We remain steadfast in building a safer and more inclusive Abia for all.
— Dr. Mrs. Maureen Ijeoma Aghukwa, The Honourable Commissioner Ministry of women Affairs, Abia state.

The Federal Minister of Women Affairs, Honourable Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, was warmly welcomed to Abia State in grand style by the beautiful and vibrant women of the state.
The colourful reception was led by the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr. Mrs. Maureen ljeoma Aghukwa, alongside other stakeholders, reflecting unity, strength, and commitment to advancing the welfare of women.
It was a remarkable moment of honour, celebration, and renewed dedication to empowering women and girls across Abia State.

On Wednesday the 19th at the Abia State Ministry of Justice, Her Excellency Mrs. Priscilla Otti, the wife of the deputy governor Mrs. Adaeze Emetu, and the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr. Mrs. Maureen ljeoma Aghukwa, alongside other government officials and the Mayoresses of the 17 LGAs, witnessed the signing of the Sexual Offenders Register.
This landmark step reflects the administration's strong commitment to justice, accountability, and the protection of women and children across Abia State. Together, we continue to build a safer and more responsible society for all.