The wife of Kogi State governor, Sefinat Ododo, on Saturday urged leaders, organisations, and individuals to work together to accelerate actions promoting gender equality.

 Mrs Ododo made the call at a programme organised by her office as part of activities marking International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025.

The event, with the theme ‘Accelerate Action on Gender Parity,’ took place at Government House, Lokoja.

Represented by the wife of Kogi’s Deputy Governor, Margaret Salifu, she stressed the need to create a world where women and girls enjoy equal opportunities, rights, and freedoms.

She implored society to foster an environment where women can pursue their ambitions without fear of discrimination or violence, ensuring the realisation of gender equality.

Mrs Ododo acknowledged the strength, resilience, and determination of women striving to change negative gender narratives and stereotypes in society.

She reaffirmed her commitment to advancing the cause of women and girls in Kogi State through initiatives promoting education, economic inclusion, and social justice while strengthening advocacy against gender-based violence.

She said, “In Kogi State, we are committed to ensuring that women receive the support and opportunities they need to succeed. Through various initiatives, we are promoting girls’ education. We call on all leaders, organisations, and individuals to unite in accelerating actions for gender equality. Every girl must have access to education, and every woman must be able to work without discrimination. We must not wait any longer. We must act now, and we must act together.’’ 

She urged women to stand tall, speak up, and claim their rightful place in society, emphasising that their voices matter.

 She added, “As we celebrate IWD, let us remember that true change comes from action. Let us not just talk about gender equality —let us practise it and demand it. Together, we can build a world where every woman and girl has the opportunity to reach her full potential.’’ 

She commended the wife of the president, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for leading efforts to empower women and accelerate action for gender equality.

 In separate remarks, the state Commissioner for Women Affairs, Fatima Momoh, and Kogi State Assembly Deputy Speaker, Comfort Nwuchiola, called for accelerated efforts to create a society where women thrive.

 The guest speaker, Oyiza Sadiq, who presented a paper on ‘Accelerated Action on Gender Parity,’ stressed the importance of raising awareness to combat Gender-Based Violence (GBV).

 The Kogi Chairperson of the Federation of Women Lawyers, Oluwakemi Omeiza, presented a paper on “Empowering Women to Know Their Rights.’’

 She emphasised the need to build confidence in both male and female children.

 She urged women to acquire skills for self-reliance and called on the government and corporate organisations to provide shelter for GBV victims.

The leader of the Lokoja Self-Help Group Advocacy for Persons with Disabilities, Blessing Okeku, urged stakeholders to take concrete steps in addressing disparities faced by women with disabilities.

(NAN)