By Our Correspondent
The Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, has extolled former Governor of Anambra State, Dame Virgie Etiaba, describing her as a virtuous woman, renowned teacher, role model, selfless politician, and devout Christian who made history as Nigeria’s first female governor.
In a goodwill message to mark Dame Etiaba’s 83rd birthday, Rt. Hon. Udeze hailed her as a woman of destiny whom God used to save Anambra State from political turmoil in 2006.
He recalled that her emergence as governor brought peace and stability to a tense political environment, as she led with compassion, humility, and inclusiveness.
The Speaker noted that Dame Etiaba’s short but impactful administration recorded significant achievements, including becoming the first governor in Nigeria to sign the Child Rights Bill into law — a landmark step toward securing the future of Nigerian children, particularly girls.
He also commended her for initiating road construction projects, reviving moribund parastatals, clearing outstanding gratuities and pensions, and championing charitable programmes for widows and persons with disabilities.
Udeze prayed for God’s continued blessings, sound health, and long life for Dame Etiaba.
He further urged the Federal Government to immortalize her by naming a befitting national institution after her, in recognition of her pioneering role and contributions to governance and national development.
He also called on Nigerian women to emulate the virtues and leadership qualities of Dame Etiaba by upholding hard work, love, peace, and righteousness in their various spheres of influence.
