The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, on Saturday emphasised the need to empower women right from childhood, saying they are critical to the development of any nation.
He therefore called for their deployment at the forefront when executing developmental projects and programmes.
Speaker Abbas said he has been leading campaigns for the protection of the girl child and the inclusion of women in politics and governance in Nigeria due to their critical roles in society.
The Speaker, in his message commemorating the 2025 International Women’s Day, themed ‘Accelerate Action’, listed some of his numerous efforts towards elevating women in the polity.
Part of the efforts, he noted, is the proposal for special seats for women in the National Assembly and the state Houses of Assembly, among other gender bills that are being considered by the House Committee on Constitution Review.
“Today, I congratulate the female folk as the world celebrates International Women’s Day. Indeed, the theme – Accelerate Action – is apt. It is long overdue to walk the talk. We must all collectively agree that women are critical stakeholders in any community. They are building homes, nurturing children, and breaking political, academic, professional, and other socio-economic barriers.
“I have been at the forefront of campaigns and advocacy for women’s inclusion in matters of public interest because I believe in girl power. This is also why we now have two committees dedicated to women in the House: the Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, and the Committee on Women in Parliament. This is also why we have more women in my office who have been excelling in executing their assigned responsibilities,” he said.
The Speaker stated that the 10th House, under his leadership and in line with the legislative agenda, will continue to pursue causes that seek to empower and include women in the efforts to create a better Nigeria.
As the world celebrates International Women’s Day 2025, Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, applauded the resilience, achievements, and contributions of women across all sectors.
Comrade Ike acknowledged the progress made in gender equality and the need for continued efforts to break barriers and create opportunities for women.
She said: “Women in journalism, governance, and other professions have continued to defy limitations, proving that leadership is driven by competence, vision, and determination rather than gender. The NUJ FCT Council acknowledges the growing representation of women in decision-making roles and reaffirms its commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for female professionals.
“The Council’s commitment to gender inclusivity is further reflected in the historic election of Grace Ike as the first female Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council.
“Her emergence after 41 years is a significant milestone, demonstrating the evolving role of women in journalism and leadership.
“Ike’s victory serves as an inspiration to women within and beyond the media industry, reinforcing the message that leadership is about vision and ability, not gender.”
She advocated that: “in the political scene, International Women’s Day (IWD) should be more than just a symbolic occasion; it should be a time for women to truly support one another, both publicly and privately. It’s time to move beyond lip-service and stop playing to the gallery.
“A woman who chooses to abandon her fellow women in an electoral contest, aligning herself with men instead, is not embodying the true essence of womanhood, just like the FCT NUJ election.
“Women play a key role in elections, not only as voters but as leaders, candidates, and agents of change. Their participation can reshape the political landscape and challenge the status quo. However, when women choose to betray their own kind for personal gain or political advantage, they undermine the solidarity and progress that are crucial for societal transformation.
“This is a moment for introspection, a time to purge ourselves of any past wrongs, retrace our steps, and make restitution. It’s an opportunity to turn a new leaf and genuinely stand in solidarity with one another, especially in the political arena, where women’s collective power is both needed and invaluable.”
“I want to use this medium to call on leaders, the federal government, and well-meaning Nigerians to invest in promoting women’s rights and gender equality. The importance of creating opportunities for more women to step into leadership positions cannot be overemphasised.
“The barriers of the past no longer define us. This milestone is not just mine; it belongs to every woman who dares to challenge the norm,” she stated.
The Council Chairman also called on stakeholders to continue supporting and empowering women, ensuring they have access to platforms where they can contribute meaningfully to societal development.
“As more women take up leadership roles, the impact is evident in journalism, governance, and various other fields, where their contributions are shaping policies, narratives, and progress.”
On this International Women’s Day, the NUJ FCT Council stands in solidarity with women worldwide, celebrating their achievements and advocating for a future where leadership knows no gender.
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