The Attorney General of Anambra State and Commissioner for Justice, Professor Sylvia Ifemeje, has emphasized the need for Nigerian legislators to reconsider and implement the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). Professor Ifemeje made this call in Awka during a community dialogue organized by the Worldwide Organization for Women Africa Inc. (WOW), titled “The WOW Conversation…003.”
WOW, an organization dedicated to building an equitable future through capacity building for women, hosted this dialogue to address issues affecting women’s lives and livelihoods in their communities. The event facilitated discussions between women and men to highlight and tackle these concerns.
Professor Ifemeje urged lawmakers to align with progressive nations by passing the gender equality bill, which would eliminate existing religious and cultural biases and grant women equal rights. She noted that while the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act, domesticated in Anambra in 2018, has addressed some challenges faced by women, the judiciary should rely on existing constitutional provisions and repugnancy tests to ensure justice for women whose rights are violated.
Professor Kate Omenugha, Acting Vice-Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, spoke on “Education as a Path Towards an Equitable Future for Women and the Girl Child.” She encouraged women to build their confidence, be aware of their rights, and educate their daughters.
Professor Charles Ofoegbu, Managing Director of Anambra State Solid Minerals Development Company, highlighted the importance of including women in politics and the economy for global sustainable development. He stated that addressing women’s challenges and empowering them would unlock their potential, leading to a more equitable and prosperous society.
Earlier, WOW’s Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Carol Ugochukwu, emphasized the significance of training and empowering the girl child as agents of change, fostering economic growth, social stability, and sustainable development.
South East Coordinator of WOW, Mrs. Ethel Eruchalu, welcomed guests and participants, pointing out the various oppressive laws and treatments women face in different locales. She explained that the meeting aimed to raise awareness about women’s contributions to a functional family and community.
During the program, WOW empowered several women by providing them with grinding machines and other incentives.
