By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
National Association of Seadogs, Atlantic Shores Deck – Eket, has called on Akwa Ibom Government and all other development partners to inspire inclusion and invest more in the empowerment and development of women, to accelerate progress and boost equitable and sustainable development of the State.
The International Women’s Day (IWD) is commemorated globally on the 8th of March, annually, to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women while also serving as a call to action for gender equality, raising awareness about discrimination, advocating for positive change, lobbying for accelerated gender parity and fundraising for female-focused initiatives.
A statement from the association and endorsed by Utibe Ikot, Cap’n, made available to newsmen in Eket yesterday also called on development partners, community leaders, religious leaders to embrace a gender equal State free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination, where women are valued and celebrated.
It regretted that the persistence of gender inequality and discrimination faced by women remained a critical and pervasive issue that has continued to hinder progress towards achieving gender equality.
“Despite significant advancements in women’s rights and empowerment, women continue to experience systemic barriers and biases that limit their opportunities and full participation in various aspects of society.
“Women are continually confronted by unequal access to education and healthcare; disparities in political governance and employment opportunities; rape, sexual abuse, harassment in the workplace and other forms of gender-based violence; all of which are rooted in deep-seated social norms, cultural practices, and institutionalized discrimination.” The statement said.
It maintained that addressing the complex and entrenched nature of gender inequality would require concerted efforts to challenge discriminatory norms, enact and enforce gender-sensitive policies, promote women’s leadership and decision-making roles, and foster inclusive environments that value and respect the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of gender.
“Only through collective action and sustained advocacy can we dismantle the structural barriers that perpetuate gender inequality and create a more equitable and just world for women and girls everywhere.
“To this end, we urge the State Government to invest more in programs that support inclusive governance opportunities, women’s education, healthcare, female entrepreneurship, resilience and risk reduction, access to clean and potable water, menstrual hygiene for vulnerable women and girls, support in crisis, mentoring and local impact.
“By providing women with these opportunities and resources, we can ensure a more equitable and prosperous future for all.
“The people of Akwa Ibom are also encouraged to support and participate in initiatives that promote gender equality. We all need to work together to create an environment where women can thrive and contribute to their fullest potential.” It said.
It restated the need for all parties to help forge a gender equal state by challenging gender stereotypes, discrimination and biases and inspire inclusion by increasing awareness.
“The public, especially the younger generation, also needs to be conscious of the imperatives of an equitable society where women have access to equal opportunities.
“The educational and economic empowerment of women often create rippling effects that positively affect communities in bigger and more endearing ways.
“The United Nations has been consistent in pursing the gender equality and empowerment agenda and Goal 5 its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is “Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls”.
“Empowering women is a critical component of achieving gender equality and includes establishing deliberate intents and conscious efforts at increasing women’s sense of self-worth, their decision-making ability, their access to opportunities and resources, removing inhibitions that limit their progress and their ability to effect change in their community and beyond.
“On this International Women’s Day, the National Association of Seadogs, Atlantic Shores Deck (Eket Chapter) salutes the courage, resilience and achievements of the Akwa Ibom women and pays glowing tributes to their industry, hard work and pivotal role in building not just homes but the entire State.
“Today, let us pledge and take action to invest in our women, for they are the bedrock of our society. Together, we can build a stronger and more inclusive Akwa Ibom State. When you empower a woman, you empower the whole family.” The statement concluded.
