The Office of the First Lady of Akwa Ibom State has expressed readiness to partner with the Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators (ICMC) to strengthen peacebuilding, promote family harmony, and expand awareness of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms across the state.
The Coordinator, Lady Helen Eno Obareki, made this known while receiving a delegation from ICMC led by the State Chairman, Dr. Rosalyn Essien, in her office at Government House, Uyo.
Lady Obareki commended the Institute’s humanitarian and peace-promoting initiatives, noting that its objectives align with those of the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA) — a flagship project of the Office of the First Lady focused on women’s empowerment and family welfare.
“I am happy for this visit because before now I would never have known that you exist. I look forward to working together to raise awareness and let people know there are other ways of mediating conflicts besides going to court,” Lady Obareki said.
She praised ICMC for helping individuals and families resolve disputes without resorting to litigation, describing the Institute as “an important institution that promotes peace at the grassroots.”
Dr. Essien said the proposed collaboration would include capacity-building programmes for women leaders, equipping them with practical skills in mediation and negotiation to serve as peace ambassadors in their homes, churches, and workplaces.
The meeting ended with the presentation of an award of recognition to Lady Helen Eno Obareki for her outstanding commitment to peacebuilding, women’s empowerment, and humanitarian service.
