FIC Report (Abia State) – The wife of the Abia State Governor, Mrs Priscillia Otti, emphasized the importance of investing in women, stating that “when women rise, nations rise.”
She made this assertion during the International Women’s Day celebration at the International Conference, Umuahia, as Abia women joined their counterparts to celebrate with the theme ‘Accelerate Action For Women Equality’.
“The Abia State government’s empowerment initiatives are part of its efforts to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment in the state”, she stated.
She commended the governor for being gender friendly in appointing more women as permanent secretaries.
She, however, expressed displeasure over the absence of women in the State House of Assembly, noting that in the next general election, women must take their rightful place.
She said, “in the state House of Assembly, we have performed woefully, no woman in the state House of Assembly, we shall take action and encourage women to come out in the next general election as we are targeting at least five women representative.”
Mrs Otti restated that her office would take the issue of gender based violence seriously; adding that they would soon make public hot lines where women or girls abused could call for help.
On health,she noted that they have been helping, particularly the cancer patients, revealing that during the last cancer day, they spent about 35 million on women with cancer.
The first lady said that every move is to domesticate the law to protect those living with HIV in the state and had ensured over 1000 women registered in the National Health Insurance Scheme.
Mrs Otti also revealed that so many women and persons living with Disabilities have been empowered at various times.
She maintained that they are encouraging young girls to take up courses in engineering and medicine, among other related science courses (STEM).
Earlier, the commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr Maureen Aghaukwa emphasized the importance of accelerating action for women’s equality, noting that despite progress, women still face societal challenges, including gender-based violence, unequal access to education, economic disparity, and under-representation in leadership roles.
She praised the Governor’s commitment to gender equality, citing the appointment of women into key positions, including commissioners, permanent secretaries, and directors.
“I urge everyone present to engage fully, share their ideas, and collaborate in building a brighter future for women”, She said.
“We have told women to liberate themselves. They should not wait for men before they become great. Education is a key to greatness.” The commissioner reiterated.
A guest speaker, Pastor Ibezim, emphasized the importance of re-strategizing efforts towards achieving gender equality.
In her paper presentation, she urged women to rise up and take their rightful place, noting that ways to attain greatness are to pursue education, remain focused in pursuing dreams, and avoid depending on the crowd.
“The existing legal system is against women, and there is a need for laws that promote gender equality.
She stressed the importance of women taking up leadership positions and running for elections, thereby encouraging women to always keep trying even after failures. “Try and fail, and try again,” She said.
A traditional ruler, HRM, Eze Nelson Nmerengwa, lauded women for the celebration, adding that women are nation builders.
The event concluded with a call to action, with the speakers encouraging everyone to amplify their voices, accelerate their actions, and demand the rights and respect that every woman and girl deserves.
Signed
Abiakam Gloria Ify
HOC, FIC Umuahia Abia state
10-03-2025
