It is International Women’s Day (March 8) and the Defence and Police Officers Wives Association, DEPOWA saluted the women who often made sacrifices for loved ones.
International Women’s Day celebrates social, economic, cultural, and political attainments of women, and marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality.
President, the Defence and Police Officers Wives Association, DEPOWA, Mrs Oghogho Gwabin Musa in her remarks said th holds immense significance not only in recognizing the remarkable achievements of women throughout history, but as a day specially set aside to honour the virtues of women and also to reaffirm commitments towards recognizing the need for the promotion of gender equality and empowerment of women.
Mrs Musa said this today, Saturday, 9th March 2024 at the DEPOWA International Women's Day Celebration Symposium with the theme, "Invest in Women, Accelerate the Progress" which had in attendance the former Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs Dame Pauline Tallen, members of the sister services associations, and association of wives of the Paramilitaries, experts from the health sector and public services.
According to the President DEPOWA, this year's theme is targeted at encouraging everyone to recognize the unique perspectives and contributions of women from all walks of life so that we can forge a better world. "I am reminded of the countless women who have paved the way for progress, breaking barriers and challenging societal norms to create a more inclusive and rightful world for all.
"Accordingly, the world has celebrated women trailblazers from field of science, politics, business and the arts to unsung heroes who tirelessly advocate for justice and equality in their communities. Also, women that have been at the forefront of positive change, driving innovation and inspiring better living conditions in our society for generations to come.
"As we celebrate our achievements and that of our contemporaries across the world, we must also admit that the journey towards gender equality is far from over.
"Women continue to face systemic barriers and discrimination, limiting their access to education, healthcare, economic opportunities and leadership responsibilities.
"Let us therefore resolve to build a world where every woman and girl child can realize her full potential and contribute her talents to society. Individually and collectively, we must portray positive mental fortitude that will attract respect and inspire inclusion of women and girls in leadership and decision-making, economic empowerment, agriculture and food security, more access to quality education and training, recruitment/retention and development of diverse talents and other numerous endeavors." she noted
She urged women to strive for a world where women are equal partners in decision-making processes, shaping the policies and institutions that affect their lives. "Finally, let us work together, in solidarity and collaboration, to build a more just and inclusive society for all.
"As we reflect on our past achievements, let us also rededicate ourselves to what we intend to achieve tomorrow and the legacy to leave behind. Thus it is necessary for each and every one of us to look beyond gender stereotypes and dismantle discriminatory practices and utilizing any opportunity we get to execute laudable programs that are people-driven.
"This I believe will further drive the chances of materializing our advocacy for policies that promote women's we look to the future, let us envision a world where every girl and woman can fulfill her potential, free from the constraints of gender-based discrimination and violence." she added
The Special Guest of Honour, the former Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs Dame Pauline Tallen stressed the significance of being a woman especially in this generation. She described how a woman was formed from Adams's ribs, this made women stronger than men.
She emphasized on the benefit of love, how a woman can achieve greater height and goals if love exist between women in the society. Mrs Tallen urged women to see themselves a leaders and a special being cewated to complete the men. She envisage that one day, like Martin Luther King Junior said, He had a dream that Oned Day, a Black man will be President of the United State, so she hope that one day a woman will be either President, or Governor in Nigeria.
The DEPOWA International Women’s Day symposium features presentations on lifestyle, personal development, and economic empowerment for women, amongst others. There was also open dialogue with experts, to address questions related to gender equality and empowerment for women.
From ssupports from well-meaning Nigerians and organizations, Nigerian Women stand a better chance to double achievements if we have all hands on deck in the execution of our programs.