IWD: Ododo Celebrates Kogi Women, Reiterates Zero-Tolerance for GBV, Discrimination

By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja.

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has felicitated with Women on the occasion of the International Women’s Day celebration and reiterated the state’s zero-tolerance policy for all forms of discrimination and Gender Based Violence against women.

The Governor, in his message to mark the International Women’s Day celebration on Friday in Lokoja also stressed the need for more women inclusion in decision making.

Ododo commended the resilience of women in the State and their extraordinary contributions to the development of Kogi State saying that Women play pivotal roles in the development of any individual, families and the society.

He said that the state government had made some progress in the areas of gender equality, addressing gender-based violence and bridging gaps as well as opportunities for women in education, entrepreneurship and political leadership in the state.

The Governor maintained that women remain “the bedrock of our communities, raising families, supporting community development initiatives and driving economic growth.

“As we celebrate our women on this special day, let us reflect on how the courage and determination of women around the world have shaped human progress in civil liberties, universal suffrage and equality that defines the progress of every society.

“We must remember that despite the heights attained by women in education, medical sciences, sports entrepreneurship and leadership, women still face violence and discrimination in several spheres of life.

“We must work hard to break down these barriers and ensure that all women, regardless of their background, have the chance to reach their full potential in our society”, Ododo stressed

The Governor noted that this year’s celebration of the international women’s day is not just about recognizing past achievements of women but an opportunity to invest in critical areas that affect women directly.

Such areas, according to him, include Education, Maternal and Childcare, enhancing the wellbeing of the girl child, eliminating Gender-Based Violence and improving Affirmative Actions aimed at advancing political and economic relevance of women.

He stressed the need for more women inclusion in decision making at state and national levels as he acknowledged the fact that more work needed to be done to address challenges faced by women.

Governor Ododo restated the resolve of his administration to devote more resources to the development of Women and Youths stressing that they are the most critical groups that define his development agenda in the state.

“As a man who has been blessed by women who shaped my destiny and defined my progress in Education and Professional Career, I am passionate about women development and enhancing opportunities for our women to thrive.

“I am aware that when women have access to education and affordable childcare, they are more likely to succeed at home and the workplace.

“Therefore as the theme of this year’s celebration suggests, we are raising the level of our investment in women in every ramifications and as an administration we have demonstrated that commitment.

“We must support women to grow economically, socially and politically, and also combat violence against women, as we sustain our zero-tolerance policy for all forms of discrimination against women in our state.

“As a people we must work together to create a safe and supportive environment for our women to thrive because when women thrive, our communities and our state will continue to thrive,” the Governor stated. (Ends)