By Frank Ulom
CALABAR (CONVERSEER) – As the world marks International Women’s Day 2026, tributes have been paid to Utibe Abasi Orok Bassey Duke, Special Assistant to Governor Bassey Otu on Gender Mainstreaming, for her contributions to women’s empowerment, youth mobilisation, and social advocacy in Cross River State.
In a goodwill message issued to commemorate the global celebration, Utibe Abasi was described as an emerging female leader whose influence and advocacy continue to inspire women and young people across the state.
The message highlighted her consistent efforts in promoting women’s participation in leadership, economic development, and community engagement, noting that her initiatives have helped create platforms that bring together women from different backgrounds across the three senatorial districts of Cross River State.
According to the message by one of Cross River’s finest bloggers, Oja Johnson (Publisher of Calabargist), Utibe Abasi has distinguished herself through her ability to mobilise and inspire women while encouraging young people to pursue leadership roles and contribute positively to society.
“She has consistently demonstrated remarkable leadership and dedication to empowering women and young people,” the statement said. “Her ability to mobilise, inspire, and organise women across different communities has positioned her as one of the emerging female voices shaping conversations around development and inclusion in Cross River State.”
Beyond her activities within the state, Utibe Abasi has also represented Nigeria in international discussions on economic development and gender equality.
She has participated in engagements linked to the Global Alliance for Care, a multi-stakeholder initiative co-convened by UN Women and the Government of Mexico through the National Institute for Women (INMUJERES). The initiative is supported by several national governments, including Canada, Germany, and Spain, alongside international organisations working to strengthen care systems and gender equality worldwide.
The message also noted that her work has been recognised by various international, national, and local media platforms, reflecting her growing influence in conversations surrounding women’s development and leadership.
Utibe Abasi maintains active engagement with global institutions, including UN Women, aligning her advocacy with international efforts aimed at advancing gender equality and strengthening support systems for women.
Her leadership efforts within Cross River State have also extended to initiatives that promote social harmony and recognition of positive societal contributions. Notably, she became the first female appointee in the state to organise an International Men’s Day celebration, honouring men who have contributed to the development agenda of the administration of Governor Bassey Edet Otu.
Cross Riverians say her ability to convene women, youth groups, and community leaders for discussions on development, empowerment programmes, and advocacy initiatives has strengthened her influence among grassroots stakeholders across the state.
Despite her relatively young age, the message described her as a leader with a growing global outlook, whose exposure and participation in international platforms continue to shape her approach to advocacy and public engagement.
“As the world celebrates the achievements and resilience of women, Utibe Abasi Orok Bassey Duke stands as a shining example of dedication, leadership, and empowerment,” the message stated.
International Women’s Day is observed annually on March 8 to recognise the achievements of women and promote gender equality across the world.
