On February 10, 2025, history was made when the Women Support Women Community Network (WOSCONET) and the Anambra Women General Assembly (AWGA) officially joined the Abians, Anambrarians, Imolites, Deltans and Ebonyi indigenes residing in Enugu State, under the umbrella of Abia/Anambra/Imo/Delta/Ebonyi Consultative Forum (AAIDE). This collaboration marks a significant step in strengthening the grassroots network in Enugu State, particularly in the local government areas of Enugu North, Enugu South, and Enugu East. This strategic move, led by Hon. Aduaka Anthony A, the National PRO of AAIDE, seeks to enhance the power and influence of women in Enugu while fostering greater unity among non-indigenous groups residing in the state.
The successful hosting and adoption of WOSCONET and AWGA into AAIDE is the culmination of over a year of hard work, dedication, and strategic consultations led by Hon. Aduaka Anthony. His relentless efforts in bringing these two influential women’s groups into the fold of AAIDE finally bore fruit on the 10th of February, 2025. Amb. Mrs. Amaka Nweke JP, Founder and President of both WOSCONET and AWGA, was at the forefront of the delegation that made the historic move, accompanied by key members of her groups: Mrs. Kate Izuorah (Coordinator, AWGA Enugu State), Mrs. Patience Uche Udo Ezeaku (Vice President, WOSCONET), and Hon. Chizoba Ezemagu (Secretary General, WOSCONET) amongst others.
The official reception of these two women’s groups by the leadership of AAIDE took place in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The event was graced by key figures from AAIDE, including Chief Igwe U. Eke (Leader of AAIDE), Hon. Chidi Udo (National Coordinator), Hon. Mrs. Amaka Okoronkwo (Woman Leader), and other distinguished members, including the PDP Chairman of Enugu North and Hon. Aduaka Anthony himself.
Hon. Aduaka, the National PRO of AAIDE, took the lead in introducing the groups and reflecting on his long journey of consultation and collaboration with AWGA and WOSCONET, which began in 2024. With heartfelt gratitude, he expressed his joy at seeing this significant development come to fruition, noting that this partnership would not only empower the women of Enugu but also serve to strengthen AAIDE’s grassroots network across the region.
Chief Igwe U. Eke, the visionary leader of AAIDE, welcomed the two women’s groups and acknowledged the crucial role women have played in shaping the political and social landscape of Enugu. He commended the tireless efforts of WOSCONET and AWGA during the 2023 elections, particularly in ensuring the success of the state’s current governor, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah. He lauded their resilience and dedication, emphasizing that their commitment has solidified AAIDE’s presence in Enugu and contributed to the broader success of the region.
In her address, Amb. Mrs. Amaka Nweke, the leader of the visiting delegation, expressed profound appreciation for Chief Igwe U. Eke’s leadership in steering AAIDE since its inception in 1999. She highlighted the importance of this new alliance and the shared vision for a more inclusive and unified grassroots movement. She assured the AAIDE leadership that their women’s groups were committed to building a broader, more sustainable grassroots base for the future, pledging to do even more if formally admitted into AAIDE.
“We are here to synergize with you, to work together to build a strong foundation for our future,” said Amb. Mrs. Nweke. “Our journey together will strengthen the fabric of our communities and uplift our womenfolk, ensuring that we are part of the collective efforts for the betterment of Enugu State.”
In response, Chief Igwe U. Eke expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the visiting groups and assured them of a warm welcome into the AAIDE family. He underscored the role of women as essential pillars in society and emphasized that they have always been integral to the success of AAIDE’s endeavors. Chief Eke also promised that after the ongoing reforms within AAIDE, a formal inauguration of the two groups would take place, marking a new chapter in the organization’s growth.
The meeting concluded with light refreshments and an official photo session, capturing the momentous occasion. It was a symbolic gesture of unity, marking the beginning of a new era for both WOSCONET and AWGA as they join forces with AAIDE to further empower women in Enugu and beyond.
In a statement responding to the newsmen after the event, Amb. Mrs. Amaka Nweke also took the opportunity to commend the Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, for his remarkable inclusive governance. She praised the governor for creating an environment where non-indigenes, regardless of their state of origin, are treated as full citizens of Enugu State. Under his leadership, many individuals, including members of non-indigenous communities, have been appointed to leadership roles across various sectors, reinforcing the spirit of unity and inclusion in the state.
Amb. Mrs. Nweke thanked Governor Mbah for fostering a supportive environment where women’s groups like WOSCONET and AWGA can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the state’s development. She expressed confidence that with the continued support of the governor and the leadership of AAIDE, the women of Enugu will continue to make significant strides in all areas of societal development.
This historic partnership between WOSCONET, AWGA, and AAIDE represents a significant step forward in promoting unity, empowering women, and strengthening the grassroots in Enugu State and beyond. The coming together of these groups is a testament to the power of collaboration and the unwavering commitment to creating a brighter future for women and non-indigenes in the region.
*FOUNTAINCARE REPORTERS*
 and Anambra Women General Assembly (AWGA) Join Forces with AAIDE in a Historic Collaboration){kind=link}