IWD 2026: Helen Pepple Shines; Awarded For Empowering Women, Supporting Church Work
No better occasion to honour the Woman Leader of Bonny Kingdom, Helen Pepple than the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD) whereon the Anglican Church conferred her with an award for empowering women and contributing to church growth.
The honour was done the serial entrepreneur, mother and role model to many on Sunday, March 8, 2026 at the St. Stephen’s Cathedral Church, Bonny, Rivers State.
In an interview with Kristina Reports shortly after the conferment, Pepple, who holds the title of Amaopuorubo, the highest for a woman in Bonny Kingdom, expressed delight over the honour done her by the Church, thanking the leadership of St. Stephen’s Cathedral for finding her worthy of such recognition.
Referencing the theme for the 2026 International Women’s Day; “Give to Gain – Generosity, Collaboration and Collective Uplift”, she described it as apt for amplifying conversations on availing women necessary leverages to thrive and sustain support for stability of families and growth of society.
She called out to women globally, especially, Bonny women both indigenous and resident to unveil their intrinsic value, pursue their potentials and sustain their contributions to the development of society, as well refuse to be held back by lack of validation by society.
“On this International Women’s Day, I call on women the world over, especially the beautiful women of Bonny Kingdom to unveil yourself, show your potential and keep doing your best. Don’t wait for validation from anyone.”
“As you continue to give, be very assured that your efforts are not in vain. Support your spouses, train your children and contribute to society the best you can. You are celebrated today and always.”
A former aspirant for the positions of House of Representatives and Chairman of Bonny LGA, Helen Pepple served as the first female Secretary to the Bonny Local Government.
She also serves as Secretary to the Bonny Kingdom Local Content Compliance Committee (BKLCCC), Bonny Kingdom Development Committee (BKDC), and is the incumbent Leader of the Bonny Kingdom Women Forum (BKWF).
The Bonny Kingdom Women Forum has under her leadership initiated and organized three consecutive editions of the Bonny Kingdom Women Conference. The last edition had the Amanyanabo and Natural Ruler of Bonny Kingdom, His Majesty, King Edward Asimini William Dappa Pepple III, CON, DSSRS, JP, Edward I, Perekule XI, in attendance as special guest of honour.
The Forum had also under her guidance organized philanthropic outreaches, seminars, workshops and capacity building programmes for women in Bonny, partnering with multinationals and international development organizations, benefiting thousands of women in Bonny LGA and beyond.
