By SADIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri –
Center for Advocacy, Transparency and Accountability Initiative (CATAI), a Non Governmental Organization (NGO )has organized a one-day seminar and award presentation to celebrate distinguished women of impeccable achievements , who have invested heavily on women and gender activities.
The Exercise Director, CATAI, Abubakar Sauq Mua’zu, in his welcome address in an event to mark the 2024 International Women’s Day in Maiduguri, reaffirmed the commitment of the organization. towards advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment.
Mua’zu said that the International Women’s Day serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender parity and the need to address systemic barriers that hinder women’s full participation in all aspects of society.
Speaking on this year’s theme: “Invest in Women; Accelerate Progress,” the Executive Director said: “we celebrate the remarkable achievements of women worldwide which underscores the critical importance of investing in women as catalysts for progress and drivers of change”.
“Investing in women is not only the right thing to do; it is also the smart thing to do. When women are empowered, economies thrive, communities prosper, and societies become more resilient.
“By harnessing the talents, skills, and potential of women, we can unlock a wealth of opportunities and accelerate progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
“However, despite significant strides in recent years, gender disparities persist in various
areas, including education, employment, healthcare, and political representation. Women continue to face discrimination, violence, and unequal access to resources and opportunities.
“As we reflect on the progress made and the challenges that lie ahead, let us recommit ourselves to building a more inclusive and equitable world for all,” Muazu said.
Sadiq further explained tha,”t to accelerate progress, we must take bold and transformative actions at all levels.Fostering partnerships and collaboration between governments, civil society, the private sector, and other stakeholders to drive collective action for gender equality.
“With the support of UN women alongside partners CATAI has been working in promoting the participation of women in peace building and leadership process across Bama, Konduga and Maiduguri advancing the rights and opportunities of women across the state
“Through our programs, initiatives, and advocacy efforts, we strive to create an enabling environment where women can thrive, lead, and make meaningful contributions to society.
“On this International Women’s Day, we are not only celebrating women but also using the opportunity to celebrate and recognize the contribution of great souls that contribute significantly in advancing the effort of achieving gender equality within the state,” Abubakar said
The Executive Director called in the people to stand in solidarity with women everywhere and invest in their empowerment, stressing that, as we accelerate progress towards a future where gender equality is not just a goal but a reality for all, he pledges for investment in women, unleash their potential, and accelerate progress towards a more just and equitable world for all.
Goodwill.measges were delivered by Special Adviser to Governor Babagana Zulum on SDGs/MDAs, Dr. Mairo Mandara, Network for CSO, Borno State Chaian, Ambassador Bulama Abiso , Prof. Patria Dinki, Hon. Commissioner of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Zuwaira Gambo among others to celebrate the 2024 international Women’s Day.
Highlights of the event include the presentation of achievement awards to distinguished women personalities, NGOs, state government and individuals , group photographs, visit to exhibition corner among others.
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