By Prisca Nguzo
Nigerian women have been urged to champion efforts that would help address security challenges, gender based violence prevalence as well as enhance quality leadership and good governance in the country.
The call was made by Barr. Mrs. Chioma Uzodimma, wife of Imo State governor; Dr. Mrs. Chinyere Ekomaru, Deputy Governor of Imo State; Barr. Jude Ogamba, Human Rights Advocate and Barr. Mrs. Chinelo Emeghara, Clerk/Head Legislative Service, Imo State House of Assembly made the call at the Annual International Conference of the Stand-up for Women Society, SWS, held in Owerri, weekend.
In their respective speeches, they insisted that women have the capacity to positively change the narrative in the country and also advance socio-economic transformation and general well-being of the citizens when properly empowered.
They however advocated for conducive environment and adequate support for women to enable them effectively harness their inherent potentials towards contributing to a better Nigeria and human society at large.
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According to Mrs. Uzodimma, "Women have always played a vital role in shaping society. They have proven time and time again that they are equal to any task, any position, and any responsibility. Together, let us create a society that values and respects the contributions of women.
"Let us break down the barriers that limit their potential and build a future where every woman can reach her full potential. Let us pave the way for a future where every woman can live her life to the fullest, realize her dreams, and contribute to the development of society."
Mrs. Ekomaru added, "As we always echo, no woman, no nation, if women can boldly assume their rightful place in the family and nation building, insecurity will be drastically reduced if not eradicated."
Also Emeghara in her paper titled, "Dynamics and Strategies for Effective Women Participation in Leadership and Governance in Nigeria", appealed to relevant stakeholders, "to advocate for the protection of women from abuse and marginalization; empower them economically and politically as well as review necessary legislations to accommodate the growing interest of women in politics both elective and appointive positions."
"It is a journey that requires commitment from all sections of the society (government, private, civil societies, individuals etc) to realize the full potentials of women's leadership." She added.
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Earlier in her remarks, SWS President, Lib. Mrs. Deborah Ijadele-Adetona (Esq) highlighted the importance of the conference and roles the women group have played in helping to reduce domestic violence, harmful widowhood practices and in advocating good healthcare and general well-being of Nigerian women since its establishment in 2018.
Mrs. Ijadele-Adetona said, "looking at insecurity as the major bane in our country today, it has become a necessity to address. No doubt, the situation is telling on all spheres of our country. And the task of addressing it remains a collective responsibility.
"I therefore call on women to stand to the challenge. We must all get involved in fighting this menace. The era of women staying aloof has gone. Hence, I call on women to actively participate in the national building, in governance and policy making."
One of the highlights of the event was the presentation of meritorious awards to some deserving personalities including Mallam Umar Namadi, Governor of Jigawa State, Barr. Mrs. Uzodimma, Chief Mrs. Titilola Adeleke and Barr. Mrs. Helen Mutfeang, Lib. Nafisa Nasir Gwandu, governor wives of Imo, Osun and Pleteau States.
Others were Dr. Mrs Ekomaru, Sen. Osita Izunaso, Senator for Imo West, Barr. Olivia Dazyem, Special Adviser to Chairman, Gender Commission, Abuja, Chief Mrs. Ify Obinabo, Commissioner of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Anambra State, and Lib. Dr. Folashade Ayode, Secretary to the Government, Kogi State.
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