By Justina Auta
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), on Saturday advocated for women empowerment, especially at the grassroot level, to facilitate their contributions to sustainable economic development of the country.
Mrs Bassey Ikpang, its Chairperson in FCT, made the call at a ceremony to mark the 2024 International Women’s Day celebration in Abuja.
This year’s IWD has the theme: “Empowering Grassroots Women: Bridging Gaps and Building Futures in the Garki community.”
Ikpang, who noted the challenges hindering women’s contributions to national development, stressed the need to empower them with the necessary tools and knowledge to enable them thrive in the society.
“In spite of their invaluable contributions, grassroots women are often marginalised as they face multiple forms of discrimination based on their gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic status and other factors.
“Empowering grassroots women does not just mean providing resources or opportunities. We must recognise what they do or where they work and ensure that they have the tools, knowledge, and support to shape their own destinies.
“When women are empowered, they can break the cycle of poverty, advocate for their rights, and become agents of change within their communities,” she said.
Also speaking, Hannatu Usman-Nga, wife of the Sa’Peyi of Garki, expressed gratitude to the association for its outreach efforts which, she said, would impact significantly in the lives of the women.
“They are here to help us on our mental health and well-being. It’s not all about coming to donate food and other items.
“They will listen to our needs and highlight them in their various media platform,” she said.
Mrs Abimbola Adunola, an Assistant Director with the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), while discussing on mental health, encouraged women to prioritise their goals and steer clear of unhealthy situations.
On her part, Sen. Ita Enang, former aide to President Muhammadu Buhari, urged women to claim their rightful place in the society and strive hard towards harnessing their potentials.
Enang underscored the importance of prioritising their daughters’ education to help them achieve their full potential, citing examples of notable Nigerian women.
Dr Philip Aodofa of the National hospital, while speaking, encouraged women to engage in regular health check to stay healthy as well as avoid things that would complicate their health.
Mrs Lami Zhiwa Lami, Community women leader in the Chief palace, in her remark, urged government to assist women to enable them fend for themselves and their families.
Other activities to mark the day were the distribution of some items, health talk and sensitisation walk. (NAN
