By Joy Omagha Idam
The 16th President of the National Council of Women Societies of Nigeria, Princess Edna D.D. Azura, has expressed great concern over the rising wave of kidnappings, particularly the abduction of school children in Oyo State, Borno State and other parts of the country, calling on women across Nigeria to embark on a seven-day intensive prayer programme for the nation.
In a Press Conference today on behalf of the council, Princess Azura announced that the prayer exercise would involve more than eight million members of NCWS nationwide, seeking divine intervention for the safe release of abducted children and all Nigerians currently in captivity, as well as lasting peace and security across the country.
The NCWS President, who was joined by Hajia Aisha Ringo the FCT Chapter President and other national officers of the council, said the current security challenges facing the nation require collective action, especially from mothers who have a sacred responsibility to pray for their families and the country.
“As mothers, we owe it to our nation and to the children whose lives have been disrupted by these unfortunate incidents to pray fervently for their safe return. We must continue to support all efforts aimed at restoring peace, security and stability across Nigeria,” she stated.
Princess Azura urged women, faith-based organisations, traditional institutions and community leaders to remain steadfast in prayers for affected families, security personnel and government authorities working tirelessly to address the country’s security challenges.
She commended the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in confronting insecurity, noting that the government requires the support of all Nigerians to achieve lasting peace.
“We see the commitment and sleepless nights being invested in tackling the nation’s security concerns. As women and mothers, we are lending our support through sustained prayers because we believe that divine intervention, alongside ongoing security measures, will strengthen efforts to protect lives and property across the country,” she said.
According to the NCWS President, the decision to organise the nationwide prayer programme was borne out of the urgent need to seek God’s intervention in the affairs of the nation.
“As mothers, it has become necessary for us to rise and pray for Nigeria. NCWS remains committed to supporting government efforts through prayers and advocacy. We believe that with unity of purpose and faith, our nation will overcome its present challenges and emerge stronger,” she added.
The council reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace, protecting children and advancing the welfare of women and families across the country. It also called on Nigerians from all walks of life to participate in the seven-day prayer exercise and remain hopeful for the safe return of all kidnapped children and other victims of abduction.
In separate remarks, other NCWS leaders stressed the need for parents and guardians, particularly mothers, to pay closer attention to the upbringing of their children by monitoring the company they keep and providing proper guidance and mentorship from an early age.
They noted that strong family values, moral instruction and active parental involvement remain critical in building responsible citizens and addressing some of the social challenges confronting the nation.