NCWS advocate policies advancing women’s progress

Recent statistics reveal that while Nigeria has made strides in women’s education, with a 65% female literacy rate, only 7% of National Assembly seats are held by women.

Princess Edna Didi Azura, the National President of the National Council of Women’s Societies (NCWS) Nigeria, has urged the government to prioritise policies addressing systemic barriers hindering women’s progress in education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.

Princess Azura, who was speaking at a special church service to mark International Women’s Day 2025 at the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria, Garki, Abuja, emphasised the need for women’s inclusion in leadership and decision-making roles.

She specifically called for reserved seats for women in the National Assembly, stating that such measures would empower Nigerian women and create opportunities for future generations of girls.

“The 35% affirmative action is what we are crying for, and the one thing now that Nigerian women are having a voice on is a special seat in the parliament – the 74 seats that are supposed to be allocated to women,”, she said.

Emotional challenges

Reverend Jessica Fuduta, the guest preacher at the event, highlighted emotional challenges and domestic violence as critical issues affecting Nigerian women.

She urged the church to play a more active role in addressing these challenges by establishing counselling units, support groups, and economic empowerment programmes.

Men support

Reverend Ozumba Nicodemus, District Pastor of the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria, Garki-Abuja, stressed the importance of men’s support in enabling women to achieve their full potential.

He called on men to prioritise the spiritual, moral, and financial development of their wives and children, creating an environment where women can thrive.

Christy Pawa, a Gender-based activist, acknowledged the progress made in girl-child inclusion, particularly in access to education. However, she noted that societal acceptance of gender equality remains a reflection of broader human capital development, which is crucial for the nation’s future.

The event featured a special prayer session dedicated to women in leadership, those facing challenges, and the future of the girl-child.

The commemoration served as a reminder of the ongoing struggles and triumphs of Nigerian women, with a united call for action to break barriers and foster gender equality.

Reporting by Muzha Kucha; Editing by Tony Okerafor; Editing by Julian Osamoto