Utibe-Abasi Bassey-Duke, a visionary leader and gender advocate, has dedicated her life to advancing gender equality, amplifying women’s voices, and driving sustainable development in Cross River State and beyond. Currently serving as the Special Assistant to the Governor on Gender Mainstreaming, her work has made significant strides in addressing gender disparities, empowering women, and influencing policy changes that foster inclusivity.
A tireless advocate, Utibe-Abasi has played a pivotal role in promoting women’s political participation. In 2024, she was a key panelist at the UN Women’s “Advance Women’s Political Participation” event, where she championed the importance of increasing female representation in governance and leadership. Her insightful contributions have inspired numerous women to step into political and leadership roles.
Under her leadership, the state has made progressive steps in gender mainstreaming. As Special Assistant to the Governor, she has spearheaded initiatives that ensure government policies, programs, and laws are examined through a gender lens. One of her key goals is to see the adoption and implementation of gender-sensitive laws and policies that address issues such as gender inequalities, power imbalances, and women’s participation in all sectors.
Utibe-Abasi’s passion for health advocacy shines through her social enterprise, which focuses on increasing access to self-injectable contraception. Her innovative approach aims to serve 100,000 women within five years, providing them with accessible healthcare options through a private health network. This effort not only empowers women to take charge of their reproductive health but also addresses broader societal challenges related to family planning and maternal health.
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Her work extends into the realm of peacebuilding and human rights through her involvement with the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom As a member of WILPF Nigeria, she is committed to advancing the rights of women in conflict-affected regions, ensuring their voices are heard in peace and reconciliation processes.
In addition to her gender advocacy work, Utibe-Abasi has shown dedication to uplifting young girls and boys In preparation for the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child, she organized an event under the theme “Elevating Girls’ Voices for Sustainable Development,” creating platforms for girls to share their stories and contribute to solutions that affect their lives. She encourages boys to champion gender equality through the International Day of Boy Child Celebration.
Utibe-Abasi’s influence is also felt in the local community, where she was recently honored as a patron of the National Association of Akpabuyo Students Worldwide. Her message to the students emphasized the importance of using their platform to make a lasting impact on their communities.
With a deep understanding of the power of government involvement in shaping a more equitable society, Utibe-Abasi continues to lead initiatives that promote gender equality, social justice, and women’s empowerment. Her remarkable work stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come.
