By Gloria Irabor.
The National Council of Women Societies (NCWS) has inaugurated Princess Edna Azura as its new National President to succeed the late Lami Lau, who served as the 15th National President until her untimely passing on June 5, 2024.
The event marked by deep commitment to prioritize women’s rights and inclusiveness was attended by various dignitaries, including the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, who emphasized the importance of fairness and equity as foundational principles of leadership within the council.
The minister articulated the collective potentials women have in driving progress across various sectors, stating: “Together we can achieve so much in this country, as women are leading in many sectors. There is no reason why we cannot do more for the country.”
She further outlined the NCWS’s commitment to ensuring access to markets and finance, safeguarding the rights of women and children, and enhancing support systems for child development and protection.
Also the Mandate Secretary for the Women Affairs Secretariat of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCT) Dr Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi while presenting a memorial magazine in honor of the the legacy of Lami Lau as an icon who made a significant impact on the status of women in Nigeria, encouraged all women to continue her work towards the empowerment and development of women and the nation as a whole.
In her acceptance speech, Princess Edna Azura assured of her dedication to the principles championed by her predecessor and articulated her vision for the NCWS: “I pledge to work diligently and relentlessly to empower women, sustain our collective drive, foster unity, and elevate the NCWS to even greater heights.” she said.
Earlier, Mrs Geraldine Ita-Etuk, First Vice President, who was the acting National President, NCWS, expressed appreciation to Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, First Lady and Grand Patron, NCWS for her unwavering support for women.
According to her, “We want to see more women in politics, more women attain positions of authority,”.
The inauguration ceremony also included the disbursement of over 17million naira dedicated to various council zones to support women empowerment projects across the nation. This financial support is aimed at promoting development initiatives that uplift and empower women and their communities.
