A one day programme to commemorate the International Women’s Day has been organised with the aim of exposing women to vital issues to reach their potential in life.
The programme organized by Justice Development and Peace/Caritas, JDPC Onitsha in collaboration with Christian Aid and Evidence and Collaboration for Inclusive Development was held in Awka.
The programme with the theme, “Exploring Empowerment Opportunities for Participation in Governance and Challenge Gender Barriers” centered on principles that hinder women from actively participation in socio-political and economic activities and being relegated to the background.
Addressing the participants, the Commissioner For Social Welfare Women and Children Affairs, Lady Ndidi Mezue said that women cannot participate effectively in leadership without being empowered both economically, political and socially noting that they should keep reviewing those systems that inhibit women from not participating.
Lady Ndidi represented by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Women Affairs, Dr Ernest Ebenebe noted that many women have been in politics, transforming the society for better, calling for persistence, consistent and courage in the quest to dismantle whatever barriers that hinder women from being at the forefront, saying that the Ministry has been organising seminars and leadership trainings as well as empowering women as a means of getting them prepared.
The Traditional Ruler Of Omasi, Ayamelum Council Area, Igwe Benjamin Okeji called for love among women noting that time has gone when women are relinquished at the background advising them to support, encourage and feel each other’s impact.
On her part, the Director, Women Action Committee, Professor Mercy Anagbogu said women should come together, get united, have one voice and love one another, stating that when this attributes are in place, women will move forward and take their rightful positions in the society.
In their separate speeches, the Director, Hope Givers Initiative, Mrs Onyeka Okey-Udegbunam and the Gender Focal Person, Mrs Cynthia Enweonwu, cautioned women against being hindrance to one another, pointing out that they should stand up to the impediments of their success and take actions towards challenging their pedigree.
One of the panelists, Mrs Ify Unachukwu of the ABS who dealt on leadership positions and election, asked the women to ensure their wards are not used as thugs while they should use their voters card to choose who ever that will lead them.
This year’s theme for International Women’s Day is “I choose to challenge”.
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