By Ejeh peter
Fanny Odey and Awuklin have emerged as the two female beneficiaries of the 2026 People’s First Award, in recognition of their outstanding contributions and achievements.
In her address at the event, which was held at The Tent, Calabar, on July 31, 2026, Awu Dominion, popularly known as Awuklin, a renowned celebrity tailor, expressed her appreciation to the organisers for recognising and honouring young women who are making remarkable strides in the fashion industry. She commended the initiative for shining a spotlight on the creativity, resilience and contributions of emerging female talents in the sector, describing the recognition as a significant encouragement to young entrepreneurs who continue to excel in their various fields.
At another ceremony held at the Transcorp Hotel in Calabar, the Chief Executive Officer of PET Media and Events, the organising brand behind the People’s First Award, Comr. Ejeh Peter, presented the award to Mrs. Fanny Odey, the State Programme Manager of GEEP, Cross River State.
While presenting the award, Comr. Ejeh described Mrs. Odey’s contributions to empowerment programmes across Cross River State as strategic, impactful and inspiring, noting that her efforts have positioned her as an exceptional female voice in the state’s political and development landscape.
He further commended her commitment to grassroots empowerment and her ability to contribute meaningfully to initiatives aimed at improving the lives and economic opportunities of people across the state.
In her response, Mrs. Fanny Odey expressed gratitude for the recognition and dedicated the award to the National Programme Manager of GEEP, Hon. Baba Hamza, whom she credited for his continued support and leadership in creating an enabling environment for the Cross River State team to thrive.
She also acknowledged the support of the Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, and his wife, for what she described as their encouragement, political support and mentorship and dedicated the Award to Her Excellency, Bishop Ayoawan Bassey Otu the first Lady of cross River State.
“I am grateful to God and to my team for the grace and support I have enjoyed so far. I humbly dedicate this award to GEEP National and to my boss, the National Programme Manager, for his commitment and support to Cross River State.
“To our dear Governor and our lovely mummy, I am deeply grateful for their political support and mentorship, which have contributed immensely to making me the kind of leader whose efforts can be celebrated today,” she said.
pet media & events 