By SADIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri –
The Chairperson of Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA), 7 Division Chapter, Mrs. Aishat Hatuna has called for more action to bridge strength, synergy among womenfolk in the country.
Mrs. Aishat made the call on Friday at Maimalari Cantonment Maiduguri during an event to mark the 2024 International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration.
She said: “This is a special day that has been set aside by the international community to celebrate the remarkable role and achievements of women around the world for their impact in the social, economic, cultural and political landscape in the development of human endeavor and contribution to societal values globally.”
She added that the International Women’s Day is a unique day where the world stand still to recognize, appreciate and sing the songs of praise in a dynamic movement in respect of all women for their quest for global peaceful and coexistence while keeping to the values and norms of womanhood.
“This memorable day strive to highlights the burning desire to address the gender gaps towards creating an enabling society where women have equal opportunities and platforms to participate in all aspects of human endeavor.
“This special day no doubt serves as an avenue used to create massive awareness regarding issues affecting the womenfolk. Issues such as gender-based violence, child marriage, discrimination and other numerous challenges experienced in getting better and quality education, economic opportunities, good health care to mention but a few.
“In marking the International Women’s Day, let me state that more emphasis is laid on the importance of empowering women through initiatives that promotes our rights, provides parallel opportunities where women can thrive individually and professionally.
“The Theme for this year’s global celebration is tagged: “Inspire Inclusion”, it is a clarion call to action which necessitated the need to bridge the glaring gaps by creating more prospects and enabling ground for women.
“Additionally, it is worthy to also state that this day create more awareness and emphasized the importance of providing an environment where women are empowered by taking up more responsibilities far above their traditional and cultural roles hitherto determined by the society.
“This theme and that of the United Nations which states: “Invest in Women: Accelerate progress”, perfectly aligns with NAOWA’s commitment to promote equal opportunities for women as earlier disclosed by our beloved mother, the National President NAOWA, Mrs Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja in Abuja.
“We are therefore delighted to join women all over the globe to sue for inclusion for the female gender. This event is aimed at providing a solid platform for open dialogue that will afford us the opportunity to share our experiences, learn from notable achievers and experts, as well as to address questions of gender equality and empowerment.
” Today’s programme therefore would feature presentations of playlets, keynote presentation, interactive session, questions and answers, goodwill messages, amongst others which was earlier kick started by the symbolic Women’s Day march to create that desired attention and awareness within our host communities about the various issues which hinges on the inclusion of women in the society.
“As part of activities lined up by this amiable chapter to celebrate the International Women’s Day, we shall pay courtesy visit to the sick and wounded troops at the 7 Division Medical Services and Hospital and to commiserate with those that have paid the supreme sacrifices by reaching out to their widows in Maimalari Cantonment and those under 7 Division,” Aishat said
She however appreciated the President of NAOWA, Mrs Mariya Abidun Lagbaja for her leadership capabilities and drive in piloting the affairs of the Association of while expressing her gratitude to all invited guests and resource persons for gracing the occasion despite their tight schedules.
The Chairperson also commended and appreciate the untiring efforts of the executives and members of NAOWA 7 Division Chapter for their untiring efforts and commitment to ensure that we succeed at all times.
She urged women to continue to do our best in supporting the home front, be prudent and respectful to our spouses and also pray for them as they are engaged in the fight against insurgency in the front lines.
“Finally, by the celebration of the International Women’s Day, let our collective efforts have the strength to bring positive change, spreading awareness, promoting and supporting women’s right. As the theme says, “Inspire Inclusion”, lets go out there and inspire every woman on the street,” Aishat said.
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