In commemoration of International Women’s Day (IWD), women in Osun State and the country at large have been urged to stand at the forefront of championing gender inclusion, equality, empowerment, investment and progress.
The call was made in a statement issued jointly by the state Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Abisola Ariwodola, and Secretary, Oluwaranti Ojewumi on Friday.
The statement also described women as catalysts of change, breaking barriers, and reshaping narratives.
Osun NAWOJ speaking in line with the theme for the year 2024 commemoration, “Invest in Women, Accelerate Progress”, reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable society where women can thrive and contribute meaningfully to every aspect of life.
The association reiterated its commitment to organizing events and initiatives aimed at promoting gender equality, raising awareness about women’s rights, zero gender-based violence, ending stigmatization, and celebrating the achievements of women in the development of the state.
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“Education, access to quality healthcare, amiable environment are the factors that allow the girl-child to grow well into a woman.
Provision of basic amenities from the home front to the government is a duty that cannot be over-emphasised for the survival of the female gender.
“We thereby call on stakeholders at all levels to reaffirm their commitment to gender equality and take concrete actions to dismantle barriers, protect and create opportunities for women to thrive, as well as include women in governance, and invest in women to achieve accelerated progress that boosts development.”
Osun NAWOJ also asserted that with collaborations, change can be inspired, and there will be advancement in gender equality, as well as provision of a brighter and more inclusive future, for generations to come.