In furtherance of her objective in creating awareness on women’s inclusion, the Advocacy for Women with Disability Initiative (AWWDI) on March 23rd, 2022 held a CAPACITY BUILDING for women (with and without disability) in Nasarawa State at the Palace of the Esu of Karu LGA.
This event which was supported by Nigerian Women’s Trust Fund and funded by Ford Foundation saw the presence of the Royal Father of the land – The Esu of Karu and the much adored presence of the Chairman of Karu local government, Hon. Thomas James, alongside other dignitaries.
Mr. Kola Joyeoba who is the facilitator of the event in the introductory remark gave a brief summary of the organization, the event and what purpose it seeks to achieve.
The participants also introduced themselves, stating what changes they hope to see in Nigeria in the coming years and what role they would play in actualizing the changes.
Esu of Karu speaking after that, lauded AWWDI for the initiative, acknowledging that there are so many things wrong with the country, ranging from disturbing scenarios to threatening/scaring headlines.
While noting that everyone has a stake in making things better, he emphasized the role of women in driving this change. The Esu further acknowledged Women Associations in the country, stating that such associations and capacity building organized by AWWDI pointed to the fact that there is still hope for the country.
He was relentless to comment on the role of women in the home as the foremost trainer of children in the society, affirming that if women play their role as the first point of socialization well by instilling sane morals in their children, then the country would be the much desired place for all and sundry.
Concluding, the Esu again commended AWWDI and expressed his strong support for the organization, while imploring the organization to be well positioned in different strata as to serve as a good pedestal for advancement and growth, as revolution doesn’t start with a large number of persons.
The Executive Chairman of Karu LGA, Hon. Thomas James while speaking at the event, exhaustively spoke on the qualities of women and how they can be major drivers of change in the country. A take home from his address could simply be captured in these words “It is what you give out that can be given back”. Like the Esu, the Chairman also pledged his support to AWWDI and their activities within the shores of the State.
The Executive Director of AWWDI, Mrs. Patience Ogolo-Dickson in her remark appreciated the Esu and the Chairman for their commitment, support and presence at the workshop despite their busy schedules, acknowledging such act by the duo an act of humility.
Continuing in the appreciation was the Executive Director of Gyunka Hope Foundation who was pivotal in securing the presence of the Esu and the Honorable Chairman. She stressed that this opportunity given is not taken for granted and that the women in AWWDI will continue to convene similar workshops like these to impact the Community.
Mrs. Patience Ogolo-Dickson while making the first presentation on the topic “Women Inclusion In Leadership” established that no nation can progress without investment in young people, particularly, young women as they are mobilizers and home-keepers.
Furthermore, she stressed the need for women to be exposed and trained, noting that to attain leadership positions, Women must possess great leadership skill-set.
In the fast changing world, she noted, women must be trained, developed and pursue relevant educational certification to be well positioned.
“The time is no more where house management skill is synonymous with leadership qualities”.
“Although the primary responsibility of women is to take care of the home, they also need education to do that effectively”.
On inclusion, Mrs. Patience defined it as an all encompassing concept for both men and women in all spheres of life. She closed by motivating women to vie for political positions in the country beginning from 2023 elections.
The Executive Director, Gilka Hope Foundation while making the second presentation, eulogized who an ideal woman is, she stressed on women participation in leadership. In defining who a leader is, she akin the woman to the qualities of an ideal leader which include but not limited to building, being compassionate, selfless and dogged.
She encouraged Women to step out from their corners/comfort zone, citing notable examples of women like Folarunsho Alakija, Ngozi Okonjo Iweala and many others.
She further admonished Women to maintain their values, respect their husbands even when they have attained certain heights.
In politics, she noted that the stepping stone for women to be included in the political scene is by registration in political parties and attending and taking part actively in party meetings.
After the presentation, the Participants were inspired by all that was said, declaring their intentions to contest for position as councillorship.
Some of them felt encouraged to take up courses and adult education in other to fit into the fast paced and changing society. Truly, they deserve to be at the helm of affairs in the country.
Another notable contribution from the Participants was captured in a witty statement “If Women want to be in charge, they got to be part of that change”.
Participants were later paird into SELF-HELP GROUPS where they got to know each other better, choose their leaders and come up with plans to mobilize more people to join their groups in view of expansion and growth.
