IWD: My Mother Made Me Who I Am — Akpabio

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, on Sunday, paid glowing tribute to mothers and women across Nigeria, recalling the sacrifices of his mother, whom he said gave everything to raise him into the person he has become today.

Akpabio spoke in a message to commemorate this year’s International Women’s Day, a global celebration of the achievements and contributions of women to society.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh, the Senate President described mothers as one of the greatest blessings bestowed on humanity, noting that his personal leadership journey was shaped by the sacrifices, love and resilience of his mother.

According to him, women continue to play vital roles in nurturing families, sustaining communities and contributing to national development despite facing numerous challenges.

He said, “I am the biggest beneficiary of the love, care, compassion and sacrifice of a woman. My mother gave her all to raise me to become what I am today.

“I remain ever grateful and appreciative of what our women and mothers go through in raising their children, supporting the family and building societies. I congratulate the Nigerian Woman on the auspicious occasion of this year’s International Women’s Day.

“As a legislature and in consonance with the theme of this year’s celebration, ‘Give and Gain’, we are committed to pushing for robust investment in our womenfolk in all spheres of life, especially female participation in the economic and political processes of our nation.”

Akpabio, who rose from modest beginnings in Akwa Ibom State to become governor between 2007 and 2015 and now heads the 10th Senate, said his life story reflects the powerful role mothers play in shaping the future of their children and society.

PUNCH Online reports that the annual International Women’s Day, marked every March 8, celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women while also drawing attention to the need for gender equality and greater inclusion of women in leadership and decision-making.

In Nigeria, advocates have continued to push for increased female participation in politics and governance, especially following repeated setbacks for gender-related bills in the National Assembly.

Akpabio’s message adds to the growing calls by political leaders and stakeholders urging greater support and investment in women as part of efforts to accelerate national development.