The Wives of All Local Government Chairmen of Nigeria (WALGON), Akwa Ibom State chapter, has empowered beneficiaries of the ARISE 31 Designers initiative at Uyo Fashion Week 2026 with industrial sewing machines and cash grants to support entrepreneurship and strengthen the state’s growing creative economy.

The empowerment programme, held on Friday at the Pastor Patience Umo Eno Auditorium, NUJ Press Centre, Uyo, was organised in partnership with Uyo Fashion Week and recognised young designers who distinguished themselves on the ARISE 31 Runway during this year’s event.

Speaking at the ceremony, WALGON President, Akaninyene Uwemedimo, said the initiative reflects the association’s commitment to equipping young people with the skills, resources and opportunities needed to build sustainable careers in the fashion industry.

She described fashion as a sector that has grown beyond clothing into a major driver of innovation, entrepreneurship and job creation, adding that supporting emerging designers represents an investment in the future of Akwa Ibom State.

Mrs Uwemedimo also commended the 31 Local Government Chairmen for sponsoring the initiative and providing a platform for the beneficiaries to showcase their creativity during Uyo Fashion Week 2026.

Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Helen Obareki, praised WALGON for sustaining programmes that identify, nurture and support young creative talents across the state.

She also applauded the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) for its continued investment in youth development and community empowerment.

Congratulating the beneficiaries, Obareki said the support extended beyond financial assistance.

“Today, you are not just receiving industrial sewing machines and seed cash; you are receiving the keys to your financial independence,” she said.

Earlier, the Convener of Uyo Fashion Week, Mae Edmonds, described the event as a platform dedicated to discovering, nurturing and promoting creative talents.

She expressed appreciation to the Chairman of ALGON, Akwa Ibom State, Uwemedimo E. Udo, and WALGON for supporting the ARISE 31 Designers initiative and creating opportunities for emerging designers to showcase their work on the Uyo Fashion Week runway.

Goodwill messages were delivered by the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs Inibehe Etukudoh; the member representing Uruan State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon. Itoroobong Etim; Chairman of Esit Eket Local Government Area, Mrs Uduak Ikemesit Ikot, who represented the ALGON chairman; the wife of the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Inemesit Uwah; former WALGON President, Mrs Maria-Therese Robson; former Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr Glory Edet; and female vice-chairmen of local government councils.

The speakers commended Governor Umo Eno for promoting the ARISE agenda across Akwa Ibom, noting that his administration’s support for local government councils has continued to create opportunities that empower women and young people.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of industrial sewing machines and cash grants to the beneficiaries. Noble Lady Helen Obareki also received an Award of Honour in recognition of her support for WALGON and its programmes.

The ceremony concluded with a “Shop for Free” initiative, during which beneficiaries received clothing at no cost through the support of the organisers of Uyo Fashion Week as part of efforts to give back to the community and encourage young entrepreneurs in the fashion industry.