Edo State Commissioner for the Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues, Hon. Christabel Omoh Ekwu has called on women who occupy leadership positions to be role models in the society.
Hon. Ekwu, made the call while presenting a keynote lecture on the theme, “Women in leadership, challenges and prospect” during the 23rd Biennium General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the Medical Women Association of Nigeria (Edo State chapter), held on January 12th -13th, 2024 at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital in Edo State.
The commissioner encouraged women who occupy various positions in the society to always make good use of their offices to bring development, progress and positive changes in their organizations, rather than building egos.
“Women should lead with feminine values of a mother, a daughter, a wife, a sister who is full of love and softness in making decisions without any form of bias,” she noted.
Hon. Ekwu told the leadership of the Nigeria Medical Women Association to demonstrate exceptional commitment to advancing the interest of women such as making significant decisions and contributions that will be favourable to the female gender and the society at large.
“Make decisions that will give opportunities for other women to be in leadership, do not close the door of leadership against other women because of greed, sentiment, etc.”
She also disclosed the Edo State Government’s commitment for its inclusiveness of women in governance and efforts of the first lady Betsy Obaseki who has been fighting to put an end to Gender Based Violence and other related crimes in the state.
“To improve the comfortability of women and the girl child, the Obaseki-led administration without wasting time is among the first batch of states that have domesticated the National Gender Policy in their States,” she added.
The commissioner further urged the women to avail themselves to contest for leadership positions as it is a way of promoting gender equality in our society.
Earlier, Prof. Reuben Eifediyi, acting medical director, Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital stated that allowing women in leadership will bring about great progress and leverage in the society.
Prof. Eifediyi also said women should distinguish themselves when they find themselves in any positions.
The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of awards to the commissioner, Hon. Christabel Omoh Ekwu.
