Dr. Martha Ibezim, President of the Mother’s Union, Women’s Guild, and Girl’s Guild in the Province of the Niger, has declared that corruption among Nigeria’s leadership has significantly hindered individual efforts aimed at national growth and development. She made this assertion during her address at the 2024 Awka Diocesan Women’s Conference (ADWOC) held at Holy Trinity Church, Nibo in Awka South Council Area.
Dr. Ibezim, who also serves as the President of the Women’s Ministry and Young Wives Association of the Diocese of Awka, presided over the conference themed “I Will Not Let You Go Unless You Bless Me.”
In her speech, Dr. Ibezim criticized past administrations for establishing a foundation of economic instability, insecurity, and a dysfunctional system, resulting in widespread hunger, poverty, and incessant killings. She highlighted the significant marginalization in the distribution of power and democratic dividends, as well as the severe suppression of minority groups. Additionally, she pointed out that the rising fuel prices, electricity tariffs, and the devaluation of the naira have made accessing basic necessities increasingly difficult.
Despite these challenges, Dr. Ibezim praised Governor Chukwuma Soludo and his deputy, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, for their developmental efforts in Anambra State, noting that citizens are experiencing the positive impacts of good governance.
Addressing the conference theme, Dr. Ibezim urged delegates to live lives of determination, resolution, and persistence, drawing inspiration from the biblical Ruth. She called on them to draw closer to God, seek Him continually, obey His words, have faith, and remind God of His promises.
In response to Dr. Ibezim’s address, Mrs. Hope Nwobia, President of the Women’s Ministry, Province of Aba, speaking on behalf of other archbishops and bishops’ wives, commended Dr. Ibezim and her husband, Archbishop Alexander Ibezim, for their transformative work. She encouraged delegates to support the Archbishop and his wife in their endeavors within the diocese.
Justice Celine Nweke adopted the presidential charge as a working document for the diocese, emphasizing that the conference theme distinguishes true Christians from ordinary churchgoers. She challenged delegates to apply the lessons learned from the conference to build a functional society.
Lady Joy Okpagu, Chairperson of ADWOC 2024, expressed hope that the conference would help delegates renew their relationship with God and apply its lessons in their daily lives.
The conference featured the launching of the presidential charge, presentations to the conference president, and various displays. The event was attended by the Archbishop of the Province of the Niger and Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Reverend Alexander Ibezim.
