Bayelsa Deputy Governor, Peter Akpe, has urged more women to join patriotic Nigerians in championing social change and building a better society.

Mr Akpe made the call on Wednesday when the Diri/Akpe Women Support Group from Bayelsa West Senatorial District visited him in Yenagoa.

He said women played critical roles in nation-building and could help address insecurity, crime, and other societal challenges.

Mr Akpe said women’s involvement in behavioural change communication at the family, community, state, and national levels would promote positive transformation.

He also called for value reorientation and adherence to standards in private and public life to ensure sustainable societal progress.

“As women and mothers, we appreciate the role you play in society. You birth today for tomorrow,” he said.

The deputy governor urged women to become agents of social engineering by promoting contentment, hard work, acceptable norms, and responsible expectations.

He said an entitlement mentality and excessive expectations had become major societal problems, while values remained essential to sustainable development.

Mr Akpe advised the group against making political gains its primary objective, urging members to focus on relationships, capacity development, and mutual support.

“If you want to have a long-lasting team, then don’t build it totally on political grounds and high expectations,” he said.

He urged the women to support one another, remain patient, and avoid irrational political decisions that could undermine their relevance.

Mr Akpe also encouraged the group to expand its influence beyond politics by building strong relationships and supporting its leaders.

Speaking on behalf of the group, its leader, Ebizi Ndiomu-Brown, pledged solidarity with Mr Akpe and the Assured Prosperity administration.

Mr Ndiomu-Brown, a member representing Sagbama Constituency III in the Bayelsa House of Assembly, promised the group’s support for the APC’s 2027 election campaign.

Other members included Deme Pamosoo, Ann Enebimoere Asamkpere, and Stella Ugolo.

Former Women Affairs Commissioner, Martha Jenakumo, and former Education Commissioner, Sylvia Brigidi, were also among the delegation. 

(NAN)