Oxfam creates a day for Nigerian women to shine.
From Cyril Mbah, Abuja.
As part of the commemoration of the International Women's Day, Oxfam, a leading global advocate of gender equality created a day for Nigerian women to share merriment, conviviality and interaction in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.
Tagged "She Shines, a day of gender awareness and creativity," the event which was hosted at the popular Chelsea Hotel drew participants from many women non-governmental organisations and featured music, poetry recitation, dance and a sumptuous lunch that was capped with the distribution of gift items.
Many speakers at the occasion, including Professor Olabisi Aina harped on the need for the society to accept the need to change from the established but out-dated customs and traditions which relegated the women folk to the background.
Olabisi Aina called for greater understanding of the role of women in shaping the society but she appealed to women to take it easy with men by demanding greater tolerance, collaboration and mutual partnership rather than insisting on equality or the instant elevation of the female gender on the higher rungs of leadership.
Another speaker, Evangelist Tobechukwu, who is the President and Founder of a female civil society organisation based in Gwagwalada commended Oxfam for championing the course of women around the world.
In her words, Evangelist Tobechukwu said: "Oxfam, you are too much. Oxfam is an organisation that talks and walks its talk without deviating. Oxfam is an organisation that stands firm for women.
Oxfam will teach women how to make money and show them how to make the money grow and how to keep it safe. Oxfam will show women how to farm and how to organise and make more money. Oxfam is the real ambassador for peace, growth and development," she enthused