Our network is open to every woman and girl, offering them the opportunity to leverage connections for their success
By Moses Okorie
The chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, FCT, Comrade Bassey Ita Ikpang, has urged women across Nigeria to unite in their shared pursuit of gender equity. She emphasized the importance of amplifying the voices of women, particularly those in rural areas who often remain unheard.
NAWOJ made the call when it joined SHE FORUM Africa, and several key partners on Sunday, March 1, to mark the start of International Women’s Month, in a reception hosted by She Forum Africa at the Nike Arts and Gallery, Abuja.
Comrade Ikpang said, “Together, we must strengthen our efforts to ensure that women’s voices, especially those in marginalized communities, are heard and acted upon”.
On her part, the founder of SHE FORUM Africa, Inimfon Etuk, expressed her commitment to creating a space where women and girls can connect, collaborate, and succeed.
“Our network is open to every woman and girl, offering them the opportunity to leverage connections for their success,” she remarked, highlighting the power of solidarity among women-led organizations.
Speaking further, the Ambassador from Finland and a representative of the Swedish embassy also shared their support for women’s empowerment.
In her remarks, Finland’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Her Excellency Sanna Selin, commended the progress made in her country, where women represent half of the population, assured the Nigerian women present that the country is on the cusp of breaking barriers limiting women’s progress.
Sweden’s Annika Hahn-Englund added a unique perspective, urging women to reconsider how they raise boys, stressing that this is key to shaping a generation of men who will respect and treat women better.
The event which was graced by several dignitaries also had support from various partners, including Guinness, Nike Arts and Gallery, and the Finnish and Swedish Embassies, all of whom pledged continued support for initiatives that foster women’s development.
The Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on ECOWAS and seasoned broadcaster, Linda Akhigbe was also on ground to lend her voice to the women’s course.
Barrister Chioma Momah of Guinness noted her company’s long-standing commitment to supporting women’s issues, sharing her personal journey of success within the organization.
The celebration featured cultural dances, a fashion parade, and a photo session that paid homage to Chief Dr Nike Okundaye popularly referred to as Mama Nike, the founder of the Nike Arts and Gallery, with guests donning traditional headgear as a symbol of empowerment.
The gathering served as a powerful reminder that, in the quest for gender equity, unity and collective action are key.