'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER – As Nigeria celebrates its 64th Independence anniversary, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, the First Lady of Kogi State, has called for heightened support for women in nation-building, urging all levels of government to protect women's rights and empower them to contribute effectively to society. Her remarks came during a ceremony held at the Government House in Lokoja, where she emphasized the critical role women play in shaping the future of the nation.
In her address, Hajia Sefinat underscored the importance of safeguarding women from sexual and gender-based violence, highlighting the need for protective measures to create a safer environment for all. “Women continue to play a pivotal role in our society, and we must ensure they are protected and empowered,” she stated.
The First Lady reiterated her husband’s commitment to addressing key issues affecting the state, including poverty, insecurity, and access to healthcare, as well as tackling the urgent problem of out-of-school children. “These challenges are interconnected, and empowering women is essential to overcoming them,” she explained.
Over the past eight months, Hajia Sefinat has initiated various programs aimed at empowering women and young girls. She announced that her office has provided grants to over 1,000 women engaged in small and medium enterprises across the state. Additionally, she highlighted efforts to enhance girl child education and vocational training as vital components in securing a brighter future for young women.
Expressing gratitude for the support received from Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Mrs. Ododo described her as a “beacon of hope for women in Nigeria.” This acknowledgment reflects a broader commitment among First Ladies to promote women's rights and empowerment across the nation.
In her appeal to the community, Hajia Sefinat urged men to cherish and respect their female counterparts, fostering an environment of love and support. At the same time, she encouraged women to continue praying for their families and leaders, emphasizing unity as a path to national progress.
Looking ahead to the upcoming local government council elections, Mrs. Ododo urged women in Kogi State to make their voices heard and participate actively in the electoral process. She called for a collective effort to ensure the victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the elections, highlighting the importance of women’s votes in shaping local governance.
As the celebration of independence continues, Hajia Sefinat’s remarks serve as a powerful reminder of the crucial role women play in the socio-political landscape of Nigeria and the ongoing need for their empowerment and protection.
