Plan International Nigeria, an NGO has called for investment in women’s empowerment as a catalyst for rapid progress and positive change in the country.
The Country Director of the organisation, Charles Usie, made this known in Abuja on Thursday at an occasion to commemorate the 2024 International Women’s Day (IWD).
Usie noted that the 2024 theme of the IWD called on the need to reflect on the importance of not just documenting and telling the stories of women, but also ensuring that the stories of women were told in their diversity.
“There are benefits and inventions that we enjoy today that are as a result of the hard work of women whose stories remain unknown because they did not have the “right” identity for such accomplishments.
“Diversity is not merely a buzzword; it’s the heartbeat of humanity. It’s the recognition that each individual, regardless of gender, age, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic, brings a unique perspective and experience to the table.
“In the realm of women’s rights and gender equality, diversity encompasses the myriad of identities and lived experiences that make up womanhood. It’s about uplifting the voices of all women, including those who have been marginalised and silenced for far too long.
“In consonant with Nigeria’s theme for 2024, “Count Her in: “Accelerate progress in Gender Equality through Economic Empowerment” #InspireInclusion, Plan International took the initiative to organise this inter-generational dialogue session today, titled “Celebrate Her Achievements.”
One of the major objectives of this event is to recognize amazing, bold and courageous women from different disciplines, who despite all the limitations, discriminations and barriers poised by social and gender norms, have accomplished successes and are still making progress to achieve gender equality,” he said.
He called on stakeholders to stand in solidarity with women and girls of all backgrounds, amplifying their voices, telling their stories and advocating for their rights.
