By Osemwegie Peace Temisan
Edo State Government through the Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues in collaboration with the United Nations, Action Aid, amongst other Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), organized a stakeholder engagement on Thursday, 15th August, 2024, to address challenges bothering on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE).
The Commissioner for Social Development and Gender Issues, Mrs. Christabel Ekwu, stated that GEWE aims to eliminate major constraints preventing gender equality and women empowerment, which inhibit women and girls to fully participate in economic activities, political affairs and social endeavours.
She decried harmful cultural practices hindering women’s progress, particularly in rural areas, emphasizing the need for synergy between the Ministry and stakeholders, to ensure the full participation of women and girls in all aspects of life, where no one is left behind.
According to Ekwu, “Many women are voiceless and helpless about these harmful practices; we need to bring them to the knowledge of the law. How do we coordinate our efforts to drive gender equality to the grassroots? How do we empower more women and create awareness about their rights and powers? I want Edo women to be practical and progressive”.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Barbara N. Osobajo, highlighted the key objectives of GEWE to include the assembly of key stakeholders to discuss, drive accountability and investment for GEWE as well as increase data and reportage on the thematic areas of GEWE. She charged NGOs to collaborate with the Ministry for better results, stressing the need to bridge the gap and to showcase existing policies like the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law and the services rendered at the Edo SARC Centre.
Mrs. Osobajo stated: “As you work in your spaces, remember the importance of integrity. We cannot be everywhere; that’s why we need all of you. We will reach out to know what you’ve done, and henceforth, there will be frequent interactions”.
A representative of the Centre for Gender Studies, Ms Ifueko Ewere-Aguebor, who holds the distinction of being the only female Karate Instructor in Edo State, made a compelling appeal to the government. She urged that Karats, as a sport, be incorporated into the educational curriculum. This inclusion, she argued, would empower the girl child by boosting their confidence and equipping them with self-defense skills. These skills, she emphasized, would become a reflex in case of sexual assault, thereby enhancing their safety and well-being. By integrating Karats into the curriculum, Ms. Ifueko stressed that we can empower future generations of women and girls to stand up for themselves and assert their rights.
On her part,the Director of Gender Department, Mrs. Juliet Ihensekhien, in her closing remarks, expressed gratitude to the participants, assuring them of the Ministry’s unwavering commitment and support towards gender equality and empowerment.
Represented Networks and Coalitions of CSOs, NGOs, and Stakeholders included Market Women Association, Medical Women Association of Nigeria , International Federation of Women Lawyers FOMWAN, WOWICAN, Nigeria Association of Women Journalists(NAWOJ) ,Lift above poverty organization (LAPO), National Council for Women Societies ,Nigeria Girl Guides Association ,Association of Lady Pharmacists, Society of Women Accountants of Nigeria, Genuis hub, Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria, CONGOs, women in Agriculture and Global Commission for Quality and Sustainable Development.
