The Executive Director of Corporate Services at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde, has urged women to actively participate in the development of Ondo State and the Niger Delta region at large.
Abegunde made this call in Akure, the Ondo State capital, during a programme to commemorate International Women’s Day.
He emphasized the need for women to play a more active role in societal development.
The NDDC Executive Director specifically noted that national development should be a collective responsibility, highlighting that everyone, including women, has a significant role to play in achieving sustainable development.
Speaking on the theme “The Role of Women in Sustainable Development,” Abegunde stated, “This programme is an initiative of the NDDC and is strategically designed for women in Ondo State to commemorate the 2024 International Women’s Day.
“The programme comes at a crucial time, considering the need for women to actively participate in the development of Ondo State and the Niger Delta region at large.
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“Sustainable development is an all-inclusive process, and everyone, including women, has a significant role to play.
“When everyone fulfills their obligation toward promoting development, there is a greater sense of ownership, which emboldens them to defend and preserve it.
“While focusing on the role of our women in the development of the Niger Delta region, we must remember that every member of society has a complementary role to play in achieving this objective.
“Both men and women must work together to ensure a more prosperous society for the future of our children.”
In her lecture, one of the guest speakers, Justina Akeredolu, highlighted that women often play a central role in grassroots community development.
She stated, “Women are often central to grassroots community efforts. Their involvement in local initiatives, whether in education, health, or economic projects, has a powerful impact on community resilience.”
Another guest speaker, Oni Omowumi, who spoke on women’s physical and mental health, urged women to prioritize their mental well-being.
According to her, “Women’s physical and mental health contribute significantly to broader societal and economic goals. Physical and mental wellness among women leads to healthier communities.
“A woman in good health is more likely to raise healthy children, support community health initiatives, and contribute to economic stability.”
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