Empowerment of women across the country has been described as a tool to unlock opportunities and drive development for individuals and families.
Ekiti State Governor’s wife, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, stated this in Ado Ekiti during the commemoration of this year’s International Women’s Day tagged “For All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,”
Speaking on how empowerment of women can enhance meaningful society suitable for all, Dr. Oyebanji noted that empowerment of women remained a remarkable call to action for pursuant of justice and fairness, adding that no woman or girl should be left behind in this regard.
According to her, Women’s rights are human rights as equality is not a privilege but a fundamental necessity. She noted that that’s why it important to reaffirm a collective commitment to ensuring that every woman and girl enjoys full rights and empowered to fulfill potential.
“As we reflect on the strides made in the area of women empowerment, we acknowledge the visionary leadership of Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the mother of the nation, whose Renewed Hope Initiative is transforming lives by empowering women and girls with skills, has also reinforced that women empowerment is driving meaningful change.
“We have also domesticated the renewed hope initiative through initiatives like the Widows, Aged, and Orphans Hope Support Foundation (WAOH) and the Adire Ekiti Hub as we have empowered women and girls in entrepreneurship, and leadership” she explained.
Driving home her point, the First Lady challenged every stakeholder to continue to uplift one another, break down barriers, and create a world where every woman and girl has the chance to shine.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Peju Babafemi who also spoke at the event, emphasized the importance of achieving gender equality and empowering women. She maintained that creating a world where everyone would have equal rights and opportunities should not be compromised.
The commissioner, however expressed gratitude to government for being passionate about women development, urging relevant institutions and organizations to deliver on their commitments and efficiently to achieve gender equality.
In their good will messages, the Deputy Governor, Chief Monisade Afuye, Wife of Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Eyesorun Abosede Adejugbe, Vice Chancellor, Afe Babalola University Professor Smaranda Olaride, among others, acknowledged government’s effort at mitigating gender based violence and support given to women by intensifying actions in promoting gender equality and empowerment.
The celebration featured inspection of local produce from different local governments, parade by women from various LGs/ LCDAs, presentation of gifts, cutting of the anniversary cake, among others.