Nkechinyere Ewa-Opkara
Women in Ebonyi State Thursday called for a concerted effort to eliminate all barriers hindering their economic and social development.
This appeal was made during a gathering at the Women Development Centre in Abakaliki, the state capital, to celebrate 2025 International Women’s Day with the theme “Accelerate Action.”
March 8 is globally a day set aside for observance of International Women’s Day, but women in politics, markets women, academia, Nigeria Association of Women Journalists NAWOJ, and other various social groups, led by the Wife of the State Governor, Mrs Mary-Maudline Nwifuru, used the occasion to raise awareness about issues affecting socio-economic well-being of women on the state.
Mrs Nwifuru highlighted several key issues, including gender inequality, limited access to education for the girl child, poor economic empowerment, gender-based violence, and the underrepresentation of women in politics. To address these concerns, she called for accelerated action involving her BERWO Foundation, the government, and civil society organizations to dismantle the barriers affecting women’s development.
“International Women’s Day is not just a day of celebration; it is a powerful reminder of the struggles women have faced throughout history and continue to face today. It serves as a platform to honour women’s achievements across social, economic, cultural, and political spheres. In Ebonyi State, as in many parts of Nigeria and the world, women have played pivotal roles in shaping communities and driving progress. However, we must acknowledge the significant gaps in gender equality that urgently need our attention,” she stated.
The theme for this year, “Accelerate Action,” is a call to urgency. It reminds us that while progress has been made, we can no longer afford to move at a slow pace in the fight for gender equality, economic empowerment, and social justice for women and girls.
“It is time to act decisively, boldly, and collectively to close the gender gaps in education, healthcare, leadership, entrepreneurship, and technology. We must break down the systemic barriers that limit women’s full participation in governance and economic development,” she added.
“For years, women have called for equal opportunities. Today, we must move from advocacy to action, from discussions to implementation. The future of women in Ebonyi State and beyond depends on the steps we take now to ensure a society where every woman and girl has the right to dream, work, lead, and thrive without limitations.”
Princess Patricia Obila, the Deputy Governor of the State, affirmed the government’s commitment to sustaining programs that promote women’s advancement. Additionally, the State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Child Development, Mrs. Felicia Nwankpuma, noted that when the current administration began, women were significantly underrepresented, but the narrative has changed through special policies and programs.
Highlights of the event were lectures on sustainability of empowerment, by Engr Winifred Nkiruka Lebechi Mbam, investments and risks, by Hon Mrs Eziulo Ngozi and, the importance of being a prayerful wife by Rev. Amadi.