Emma Elekwa
Immediate past Anambra State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo has formally bowed out of office with a heartfelt farewell speech that reflected on her years of service to women, children and vulnerable people across the state.
Speaking to journalists in Awka, Obinabo described her time in office as more than a political appointment, saying it became a personal mission to defend the weak and give hope to those whose voices were often ignored.
“I stand before you with a heart full of gratitude, reflection, and unshaken hope,” she said.
According to Obinabo, serving as Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare remained one of the greatest honours of her life.
She said the opportunity to stand for women, protect children and support struggling families gave her a deeper understanding of leadership and public service.
“To be entrusted with the responsibility of amplifying the voices of the vulnerable, defending the dignity of women, protecting our children and standing in the gap for the voiceless, has not just been an office; it has been a calling,” she declared.
Appreciation to Soludo
The former commissioner used the occasion to thank Governor Chukwuma Soludo for what she described as unwavering support throughout her time in office.
She praised the governor for giving her opportunity to serve at what she called “a critical time” in the state’s development.
“I want to sincerely thank the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, for the confidence he reposed in me and for the opportunity to serve our dear state,” she said.
“Thank you Mr Governor for the political will you provided which is the secret of my success. Your support and encouragement is indescribable,” she added.
Despite leaving office, Obinabo insisted that her work for humanity was far from over, promising that her passion for humanitarian service would remain alive beyond government office.
She reassured supporters, women groups and vulnerable citizens that she would continue fighting for justice and dignity outside government office.
“Let me say this clearly: this is not the end of the journey — it is only a transition.
“The fight for justice, equity, and dignity for the voiceless is a thing of the heart and my heart is still fully committed.
“Stepping away from office does not mean stepping away from service. I am stepping off this platform, but I am not stepping away from the cause.
Operating from different platform
“I am moving to a different platform — one that will continue to advocate, to speak, to act, and to defend those who need it most.
“Anambra will be better. Our women will be stronger. Our children will be safer. And the voiceless will never be forgotten.”
Congratulating the incoming Commissioner, Esther Chinyere Onyekesi, the ex-Commissioner urged her to continue building on existing achievements.
She described the office as both challenging and rewarding, just as he encouraged the incoming commissioner to strengthen ongoing efforts aimed at protecting women and children in the state.
“To my dear sister, Mrs Esther Chinyere Onyekesi, I extend my warmest congratulations. The task ahead is great, but so is the opportunity to make a lasting difference.
“I encourage you to build on the foundation laid and to go even further,” Obinabo added.
