Thousands of women from across Enugu State gathered at Michael Okpara Square for the 2023 Women Convention, which revolved around the theme “Cervical Cancer: Prevention, Diagnosis, and Treatment.” This event, marking the culmination of the annual August meeting, featured various engaging activities, including health education, cooking competitions, and a vibrant march past. The convention aimed to empower and unite women while shedding light on crucial health issues.
Empowering Women for a Stronger Enugu State:
In her opening remarks, the Honorable Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs, and Social Development, Mrs. Ngozi Enih, celebrated the strength, resilience, and untapped potential of women in Enugu State. She emphasized the convention’s mission to empower, inspire, and unite women from diverse backgrounds. Mrs. Enih expressed gratitude to the governor’s wife for her presence and the invaluable support of free pap smear testing for women.
A Pledge to Empower Women
Mrs. Enih reiterated her ministry’s commitment to women’s empowerment, particularly through entrepreneurial skills and various forms of support. She highlighted the collaborative efforts with the First Lady, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah, in eradicating poverty in Enugu State homes.
Acknowledging Unity and Creativity:
The wife of the Enugu State Governor, Mrs. Nkechiyere Mbah, commended the women for their resilience, unity, and creative spirit throughout the August meeting. She expressed satisfaction with the convention’s organization and acknowledged the contributions of the former first lady, Mrs. Monica Ugwuanyi, and Commissioner Mrs. Ngozi Enih in sustaining this vital gathering.
A Commitment to Women’s Welfare:
Mrs. Mbah reaffirmed her office’s commitment to prioritize women’s welfare and recognized the support of the women’s prayer group. She pledged to continue working to improve the lives of women in the state.
Prayers for the State’s Prosperity:
Dr. Mrs. Favour Ugwuanyi MNI, the coordinator of the State Prayer Support Group, prayed for the leadership of Enugu State and its ambitious plans for growth. She called for support and prayers for the governor’s tireless efforts to transform the state.
Women’s Support for Women:
Mrs. Rita Edeh, the wife of the Chairman of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), assured women in the state of continued support in healthcare services, welfare, and other essential needs. She expressed confidence that women’s inclusiveness would remain a priority, bolstered by the presence and address of the first lady.
A Colorful Celebration of Women:
The convention’s highlight included a lively cooking competition where local government areas showcased their unique delicacies. The colorful march past entertained visitors from various walks of life, adding an exuberant note to this empowering event.
Resource persons and professional who spoke at the event include; the Executive Secretary of Enugu State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Ifeyinwa Ani-Osheku who spoke on Cervical Cancer Prevention, Pediatric Consultant at Park Lane Dr. Okey Ogbodo, who delivered lectures on Nutrition and Antenatal Care, A gynaecologist and Obstetrician, Dr. Chizoba Onyema, who sensitized the women on symptoms of breast cancer and periodic checkups, and an Entrepreneur and lecturer at Godfrey Okoye University, Dr. Chidimma Okafor who stressed on the significant of skills acquisition by women.
