BY RITA OYIBOKA
The Delta State Ministry of Women Affairs, Community and Social Development has rounded off the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration in the state with a renewed call to advance a society where women are not left behind.
The Ministry’s Commissioner, Hon. Pat Ajudua made the call, yesterday, at the event held at the Chike Edozien Secretariat, Asaba, which convened multiple women bodies, professionals, and Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) across the state.
The series of celebrations marking Women’s Day in the state kicked-off on March 8th with a sensitisation rally by the Ministry under the theme, “For All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment. Accelerate Action.”
In her remarks at the occasion, the Commissioner highlighted the invaluable contributions of women in all spheres of life, stressing the need to go beyond discussions and take decisive steps towards achieving goals of equality.
She lauded the state government, under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Sherriff Oborevwori and the First Lady and founder of the You Matter Charity Foundation, Dcns Tobore Oborevwori for their strides in empowering women through various initiatives.
Ajudua further noted that the Ministry remained steadfast in its mission to “accelerate action” and create an inclusive society where every woman and girl can thrive, free from discrimination and violence despite persistent barriers and socio-economic limitations.
To the women, she noted: “On this special day, I urge every woman to embrace her power, nurture her dreams, and uplift others along the way.
“To our men and partners in progress, we appreciate your support in championing the cause of gender equality. Together, we can build a Delta State where no woman is left behind.”
Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Oghenekevwe Agas reaffirmed the state’s commitment to strengthening policies that safeguard the rights and welfare of women and girls. She stressed the need for collaborative efforts in achieving gender-responsive governance.
In her goodwill message, the Director of the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Unit in the State Ministry of Justice, Barrister Voke Angbagh, applauded the State’s strides in implementing laws that protect women and girls, including the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act 2015 and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015.
She urged women to familiarise themselves with these legal provisions to seek justice when necessary.
The event also featured deliberations on key resolutions from the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), particularly as they pertain to Nigerian women in anticipation of Beijing+30.
The ministry called on NGOs, individuals, private sector stakeholders, and policymakers to assess their level of engagement and commitment towards implementing these resolutions as the global community prepares for the 70th CSW.
