AWKA/Nigeria: Wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr Nonye Soludo, has called upon women to actively participate in politics as a means to reshape the landscape and achieve democratic governance in Nigeria.
Soludo delivered the message in Awka while hosting female health workers to commemorate the 2024 International Women’s Day, observed annually on March 8.
International Women’s Day serves as a platform to recognize the social, economic, cultural, and political accomplishments of women, alongside advocating for gender equality.
This year’s celebration centered on the theme ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress.’
Soludo emphasized that women’s involvement in politics would empower them to mobilize political will and resources to tackle pressing issues faced by women, such as female genital mutilation, societal pressures, abuse, and discrimination.
“Women have a significant role to play in addressing these challenges and achieving tangible outcomes. However, our participation in politics is essential to enact meaningful change,” she asserted.
Gone are the days, Soludo remarked, when politics was viewed as a male-dominated arena or a morally dubious game. She stressed that women have the capacity to alter the dynamics of politics and advocate for decisions that impact their lives.
“Young women should draw inspiration from trailblazers who shattered glass ceilings and left indelible marks on national and global platforms,” she encouraged. “Being a woman should fuel your ambition to aim high, dream big, and achieve greatness.”
Soludo urged female health workers and women in general to promote a culture of healthy living within their households, workplaces, and communities.
She commended the current administration for initiatives such as the free education policy and complimentary antenatal and delivery services, which prioritize women’s well-being.
“A thriving and prosperous society hinges on the vision, intellect, and resilience of remarkable women,” Soludo affirmed.
In addition to Soludo’s remarks, Mrs. Beverly Ikpeazu-Nkemdiche, Commissioner for Special Duties, implored governments at all levels to create conducive environments for women to excel in their professions and businesses.
Ikpeazu-Nkemdiche called on residents to rally behind the Healthy Living campaign, emphasizing that good health is a prerequisite for achieving substantial progress.
“Women must support every initiative, policy, and action geared toward finding solutions. The Healthy Living campaign is yielding significant results because a healthy populace is a catalyst for productivity,” she concluded.
