The Special Assistant to the Cross River State Governor on Gender Mainstreaming, Utibe-Abasi Bassey-Duke, has reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to expanding women’s participation in governance, leadership, and development processes. She made the statement during a high-impact leadership and governance training session held on Saturday at Pyramid Hotel along Murtala Mohammed Highway in Calabar.
The event was organised in collaboration with Miss Politics Nigeria and brought together young female contestants who are passionate about influencing public policy, leadership, and community transformation. The session focused on equipping participants with skills and knowledge needed to take up active roles in society.
Speaking after the engagement, Bassey-Duke described the experience as “a refreshing one,” adding that the participants showed remarkable depth, curiosity, and potential. She said, “Engaging with these brilliant contestants reminded me of the power and potential that young women hold when they are given the right platforms and support. Their curiosity, confidence, and commitment to shaping a better future were evident in every conversation we had.”
She explained that the training covered practical pathways for effective leadership, touching on representation, strategic thinking, and integrity in governance. According to her, the quality of questions and the ideas shared by the contestants showed that they are already preparing to lead with strong purpose. “I was especially encouraged by the depth of their questions and the solutions they proposed for challenges within their communities, proof that the next generation of female leaders is already preparing to lead with purpose,” she said.
Bassey-Duke praised the organisers for creating what she called an “empowering space,” adding that the programme aligns with the state government’s ongoing efforts to promote gender inclusion and mainstreaming. She stated, “Initiatives like this are not just timely, but essential in nurturing women who will redefine leadership across Nigeria and beyond.”
She also expressed interest in future partnerships and restated her dedication to supporting the growth of young women in leadership. The training is part of wider gender-focused initiatives by the Governor Bassey Edet Otu administration aimed at increasing opportunities for women and improving their visibility in governance across Cross River State.
