The First Lady of Kogi State, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, has reaffirmed the state’s commitment to gender equality and urged stakeholders to take decisive action in promoting women’s rights.
Speaking in Lokoja at an event marking the 2025 International Women’s Day with the theme “Accelerate Action for Gender Parity,” Mrs. Ododo, represented by the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Margaret Eleojo Oyibo, highlighted efforts by the state government to empower women and children.
“With the domestication of the Child Rights Act, free education for primary and secondary school students, and a bursary scheme for tertiary students, it is now in the hands of parents to take advantage of these opportunities,” she said.
While acknowledging progress made by women in Kogi in business, politics, and education, she stressed that challenges remain in achieving full gender equality.
“It is time to break these chains faster than ever before. Every girl must have access to education, every woman must be able to work without discrimination, and every mother must receive quality healthcare,” she added.
She emphasized that gender equality is a collective responsibility, urging individuals, organizations, and men in particular, to actively support the cause.
“When we empower women, we empower the nation. When we educate girls, we uplift communities. When we support women in leadership, we build a better society for everyone,” she stated.
Mrs. Ododo commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for creating an enabling environment for women to thrive and also appreciated the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for championing women’s empowerment through the Renewed Hope Initiative.
She called on all stakeholders to move beyond words and take concrete steps toward building a more inclusive society where every woman and girl can reach their full potential.
