From Michael Egbejule, Benin City.
The Conference of Non-Governmental Organizations (CONGOs) in commemoration of the 2025 International Women’s Day
on Sunday called for support at all levels of government in tackling the challenges faced by women in the country, particularly in advocating for the rights, empowerment ofall women, and the girl child.
This is contained in a statement signed by Comrade Ibrahim Momoh
Director of Publicity, Conference of Non-Governmental Organizations (CONGOs) Benin City, Edo State.
Momoh said CONGOs join the rest of the world in commemorating International Women’s Day 2025 under the theme “For all Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment”.
He said the IWD provides an opportunity to celebrate the remarkable achievements of women in Edo State, Nigeria, and beyond, while also reflecting on the challenges they continue to face.
The statement reads, “The Conference commends the women of Edo State in particular and across Nigeria for their resilience in the face of daunting challenges like widespread poverty, harassment, gender-based violence, and systemic inequality, among others.
“The Conference notes that despite these hurdles, Nigerian women continue to demonstrate resilience and determination in building and leading MSMEs, the informal economy, the home front, public service and politics. “
While noting that CONGOs also applauds the Edo State government for the approval of a N1 billion soft loan for market women in Edo State which signposts the critical role women play as key drivers of the local economy , Momoh commended the activities of the Administrator of the Office of the First Lady of Edo State, the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Edo State and her team who have since inauguration worked tirelessly to support the most vulnerable persons in the society particularly women with disabilities.
He said the NGO also acknowledges that while progress has been made, significant barriers remain.
According to him, Gender-based violence continues to affect many women, including the recent data which show that at least one in four girls experience some form of abuse before they turn 18.
‘ Furthermore, women remain underrepresented in leadership positions at both state and national levels, as well as the lack of full implementation of gender-responsive laws such as the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act and Child Rights Act further hampering progress towards a more inclusive society.
“CONGOs therefore calls on all stakeholders – government, civil society, organized private sector, and individuals in positions to make a difference, to accelerate action toward creating a society where every woman can thrive through increased Economic Empowerment Opportunities, stronger Legal Protections and enforcement mechanisms, providing psychosocial support for Survivors of Gender Based Violence while enforcing stricter penalties against perpetrators, as well as greater representation and advocacy for increased participation of women in decision-making spaces across all sectors.
“In conclusion, CONGOs say to all women in Edo State and Nigeria that your resilience inspires us. Let us continue to break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and build a future where gender justice is not just an aspiration but a reality. On this International Women’s Day, CONGOs reaffirm its commitment to advocating for the rights and empowerment of all women and girls. Together, let us accelerate action toward a more just and equitable society where no one, no woman and no girl is left behind.”Momoh said
