The President of Helpline Foundation for the Needy, Mrs Jumai Ahmadu, on Thursday in Abuja advocated for viable initiatives for women empowerment and sustainability.
Ahmadu made the appeal in a news conference to mark the International Women’s Day (IWD), celebrated every March 8.
She said collective efforts to make women economically viable, would forge a more gender-balanced world.
According to her, the 2019 edition of the IWD would examine women achievements and challenges with a view to creating gender equality.
“Every March 8, is a great and important time in history, to do everything possible to help forge a more gender-balanced world.
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Women have come a long way, yet there are still more to be achieved.
The story of women’s struggle for equality does not end with one single individual or organisation, but it is a collective effort of all who care about human rights,’’ Ahmadu said.
According to her, this year’s IWD theme: “Think equal, build smart, innovate for change” tagged “Balance for Better’’ is a call to action for a gender balance world.
Ahmadu said women should not see themselves as the weaker vessel, noting that a lot of achievements had been recorded by women globally and locally.
“Today, we have more women serving on different boards, with greater increase in legislative rights and an increased visibility as role models in every aspect of life.
It is a demonstration of the fact that women have gained an impressive equality.
In today’s world, we do have female astronauts and prime ministers, school girls gaining admission into universities, women can work and have a family and they have real choices.
“And more significantly, each year the world inspires women and celebrates their achievements.
However, women are still not paid equally as their male counterparts, they do not equal their male in business or politics, globally in education and health women are at disadvantage and violence against them is worse.’’
Ahmadu therefore urged government at all levels, individuals as well as corporate organisations to ensure the future of the girl child through initiatives and policies that would make positive difference in the lives of women. (NAN)