In a strong show of confidence and early political alignment ahead of 2027, the Women Support Women Community Network (WOSCONET) has thrown its weight behind the transformative leadership of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah of Enugu State, affirming its support for the continuity of his development-driven and women-inclusive governance. This position was clearly underscored as the network honoured the Governor with its prestigious Grand Patron Award, citing his deliberate policies that have elevated women into strategic leadership positions and redefined inclusive governance in the state.
The conferment took place during the WOSCONET Annual General Assembly held in Enugu, a colourful gathering of women leaders, political stakeholders, professionals and community influencers, which turned into a celebration of bold leadership, inclusion and excellence. The award, according to the organisers, was not only a recognition of Governor Mbah’s achievements so far but also a statement of solidarity and support for his progressive vision beyond 2027.
Governor Mbah, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Chidiebere Onyia, was specially honoured for his intentional expansion of women’s participation in leadership and decision-making since assuming office. The Assembly noted that under his administration, women are not merely accommodated but are entrusted with sensitive and impactful responsibilities across ministries, agencies and institutions.
Receiving the award on behalf of the Governor, Professor Onyia described the honour as a validation of the administration’s firm belief that sustainable development is impossible without the full integration of women in governance. He stressed that Governor Mbah’s leadership philosophy is rooted in merit, innovation and inclusion, adding that women appointed into key positions earned their roles through competence and capacity, not tokenism. He reaffirmed that gender has never been a limiting factor under the present administration, as excellence remains the defining standard.
Professor Onyia, who was also honoured by WOSCONET, commended the organisation for fostering unity among women and amplifying their voices in governance and development. He urged women to remain resolute in supporting leadership and policies that promote equity, empowerment and progress, while describing the theme of the Assembly, “She Wins: Bold Steps, Brave Hearts, Big Wins,” as a timely call for courage and resilience in leadership.
In her address, the Founder and Global Leader of WOSCONET, Ambassador Mrs. Amaka Nweke JP, said the decision to honour Governor Mbah as Grand Patron was deliberate, strategic and well-deserved. She noted that the Governor has consistently proven that gender inclusion is not a campaign slogan but a guiding principle of governance. According to her, the presence of women heading critical sectors such as technical education, tourism, gender-related portfolios and other strategic areas clearly reflects the Governor’s progressive vision and commitment to empowering women to excel locally and globally.
Ambassador Nweke stated that the award symbolises WOSCONET’s appreciation for a leader who has created an enabling environment where women can thrive, innovate and contribute meaningfully to governance and development. She added that the network stands firmly with Governor Mbah because his leadership aligns with its core values of empowerment, equity and sustainable progress.
Also speaking, the President of WOSCONET, Mrs. Patience Ezeaku, explained that the Annual General Assembly serves both as a platform to review the network’s activities and to celebrate individuals who have distinguished themselves as allies of women empowerment. She said the awards were designed to encourage leaders and stakeholders who consistently support women-focused initiatives and community development, reaffirming WOSCONET’s commitment to expanding its reach, strengthening partnerships and raising more women leaders across sectors.
Another major highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to other distinguished personalities who have contributed to women empowerment and social development in Enugu State. Those honoured included the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Chidiebere Onyia, the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Enugu State, Dr. Ben Nwoye, and the APC Caretaker Committee Women Leader in Enugu State, in recognition of their sustained support for women inclusion and political participation.
In his remarks after receiving the award, Dr. Ben Nwoye expressed gratitude to WOSCONET, describing the recognition as a motivation to deepen advocacy for women empowerment. He praised Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for his development-oriented leadership, urging women to remain united, take bold steps and actively position themselves for economic and political relevance.
Dr. Nwoye also paid glowing tribute to Ambassador Mrs. Amaka Nweke JP, describing her as a clear example of what happens when opportunity meets competence. He noted that her appointment by Governor Mbah as a Commissioner in the Enugu State Local Government Service Commission reflects the Governor’s belief in merit over gender. He further applauded her international achievement at a water conference in Morocco, where she emerged as an award recipient, making history as the first Black African woman to win the prestigious honour. According to him, the feat has projected Enugu State positively on the global stage.
The ceremony also featured goodwill messages and a keynote reflection delivered by Barrister Chimfumnanya Nwangwu, who challenged women to reject mediocrity, embrace excellence and courageously pursue their aspirations with confidence and purpose.
One of the high points of the Assembly was the presentation of Humanitarian and Service Awards to individuals and institutions that have supported women empowerment and community development. Award recipients included Engineer Chidi Nweke, Mr. Kingsley Ugonna, the Chairman of Ezeagu Local Government Area, Dr. Vitalis Ndu, Mr. Solomon Akpanufot, WaterAid Lead in Enugu, Mr. Bolatito Gabriel, WASH Specialist with UNICEF, Mrs. Onyeka Udegbunam, Her Royal Highness Ugoeze Dr. Mrs. Adaobi Ogbu, wife of the Igwe of Nara Unateze Kingdom and State Coordinator of WASH, alongside several other distinguished personalities.
The WOSCONET Annual General Assembly stood as a powerful endorsement of leadership that prioritises inclusion, celebrates excellence and recognises the transformative role of women in governance and development, with Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah’s Grand Patron Award emerging as both the defining symbol of the event and a clear signal of WOSCONET’s support for his leadership going into 2027.
— The Coal City Network