By: Joseph Edet Aka Gentility
Residents of Ikot Aba Community in Ikot Abasi Local Government Area witnessed a significant milestone in community development as the Water of Life Project was officially commissioned, bringing renewed hope and access to safe, clean water.
The project was commissioned on behalf of the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Lady Helen Obareki, by the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hon. Inibehe Silas Etukudo.
The humanitarian initiative was jointly facilitated by former Member of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Chief Esio Oquong Udoh, and the Founder of the Deaconess Sarah Inwang Foundation, Dr. Inwang Etim, in collaboration with the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA). The partnership underscores a shared commitment to improving the living conditions of rural communities through sustainable social interventions.
Speaking during the commissioning, Rt. Hon. Chief Esio Oquong Udoh described the Water of Life Project as a practical demonstration of purposeful leadership and community service. He noted that access to potable water remains one of the most essential foundations for public health, economic growth, and human dignity, expressing optimism that the project would significantly improve the quality of life for residents of Ikot Aba and neighbouring communities.
In his remarks, Dr. Inwang Etim commended the First Lady Designate, Lady Helen Obareki, for her unwavering passion for humanitarian service and her dedication to initiatives that directly impact the welfare of women, children, and vulnerable communities. He emphasized that partnerships driven by compassion and shared responsibility are key to achieving sustainable development across Akwa Ibom State.
Delivering the First Lady Designate Message, Hon. Inibehe Silas Etukudo described water as the foundation of life, stressing that access to clean and safe drinking water is indispensable to good health, sanitation, and socio-economic development. She reaffirmed the commitment of the Office of the First Lady to supporting people-centred projects that uplift communities and improve the well-being of citizens.
The commissioning of the Water of Life Project marks another impactful intervention aimed at promoting healthier living, reducing the burden of water scarcity, and fostering sustainable community development in Ikot Abasi Local Government Area.