Nigeria Female Youth Organization has called for equal opportunities in the social, economic and political spheres in the country.
The group also wants an end to social stereotypes associated with the female gender.
National President of the Association Princes Michelle Peter made the call yesterday in Abuja, during the celebration of the celebration of Nigerian virtous women in commomeration of International Women’s Day Celebration 2023. Tagged: “Save Girl child.”
She said that it is time to create awareness about women rights and gender equality, adding that in Nigeria for instance, there are some places where women are not allowed to inherit their parents properties even as the law allows it.
She noted that men have more privileges in every aspect of life in the society. Now we are living in the world where gender balance is necessary because we are all humans and equal opportunity should be giving to everyone, no one should be left behind.
Michelle said, “It is more exciting that at least today, educational institutions are now open to celebrate women’s day which is a sign of progress and enlighten students on the need to honor and respect women. The generation must have higher regard on women and place high value on them
“I must say that, when women are offered equal opportunity they sometimes outperform males. For instance, women like Professor Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, Late Prof Dora Akunyili, Hajiya Ireti Heebah Kingibe, Barr uju Kennedy, Prophetess Nkeiru Ihezuo and Princess Gloria Akobundu. among others. These are women who outperformed men, they needs the support of all to continue in that positive direction.
“We are calling on the government, our leaders, every good meaning Nigerians to support and encourage this great personalities for they have shown capacity in all ramifications. I must say women participation strengthen peace accord, strengthen society and make economic dynamic.”
Similarly, National Coordinator/Chief Executive Officer of New Partnership for Africa’s Development, NEPAD, Princess Gloria Akobundu, stated that through out her leadership in both private and public sectors, she have devoted considerably time and resources in gender mainstreaming, development and mentoring of girl child at the community, states, continental and global levels.
Akobundu who was represented by Mrs Young Itiye Timi said, “God’s willing, I have insisted to continue to promote positive actions towards the growth and success of the Girl Child at all levels.
“As you are aware, Nigerian women and young girlls have left much to be desired through their outstanding achievements and mentorship in various areas of life in the likes of Ngozi Okonjo-Iwela (First Woman and African to head World Trade Organization), Chimamanda Adiche (a Nobel Laurate ),Lois Auta (First disabled Legislative Candidate), Sandra Aguebor (Nigeria First Female Automotive Mechanic) Kafayat Sanni (First Female Fighter Pilot just to mention but a very few. This accomplishment has proved high sense of resilience, determination, capacity, skills, commitment, competence, thoroughness and honesty.”
Meanwhile, Barr Uju Kennedy, noted that if the girl child is encourage and empowered in education that would be a pathway to national development.
She insisted that if women are being given opportunity in political space, they will add to national development.
She said when we talk about gender equality, we are talking about equality of rights, about the fact that women’s rights are also human rights and should be recognized as such; the fact that both genders should have equal rights as given under the constitution and also, the fact that once women have and enjoy their rights, it doesn’t deprive men of enjoying their rights and having those rights as well.
In attendance at the event is the Hon Minister of Education for State ( Hon Goodluck Nanah Opiah who was the special guest of honor.
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