Cross River First Lady clears stipends of 1,234 sweepers and distributes POS machines in major empowerment drive across Northern and Central districts.
Cross River First Lady clears stipends in a powerful show of support for 1,234 women sweepers across the state’s Central and Northern Senatorial Districts.
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The long-overdue payments, covering 11 months of unpaid stipends, were finally settled by the wife of the state governor, Eyoanwan Otu, bringing tears of joy and relief to hundreds of women who had worked without pay.
The First Lady’s action, described by many as compassionate and impactful, didn’t stop at payments.
As part of the empowerment initiative, 170 Point of Sale (POS) machines were also distributed to the sweepers, helping them launch or expand small businesses and improve their financial independence.
Celebratory events took place across Ugep, Ikom, Ogoja, and Obudu, where beneficiaries openly expressed their gratitude. The governor’s wife, while addressing the women, stated:
“For 11 long months, you laboured without the reward of your sweat. Today, your tears are turning into laughter. This is not just payment—it is justice, dignity, and a reminder that your contributions matter.”
She praised their dedication and reinforced the administration’s People First mantra, adding that no citizen’s service should go unnoticed—especially those at the grassroots.
Leaders from the host LGAs, including the Chairmen of Yakurr, Ikom, Ogoja, and Obudu, described the move as “a beacon of hope and humanity,” echoing public sentiment that the First Lady’s intervention restored both faith and dignity.
Mrs. Josephine Boniface from Obudu Urban and Mrs. Jenny Ofem from Ugep Urban shared how this gesture made them feel seen and appreciated.
The event also brought attention to broader infrastructural needs.
Mrs. Dorathy Oko, representing Bekwarra Women in Politics, urged the revitalization of the Urban Development Authority to maintain the state’s cleanliness and ensure timely remuneration moving forward.
In a signoff, Eyoanwan Otu encouraged all the women present:
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“Hold your head high. You are keeping our environment clean, and in doing so, you are securing a brighter future for us all. We celebrate you today and will continue to empower you tomorrow.”
Source: Read more at premiumtimesng.com
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
