From AMEDU JOSEPH, Lokoja
Wife of Kogi State Governor, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, has reaffirmed her commitment to promoting women’s education and economic empowerment, describing empowered women as the foundation of a stronger society and nation.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Bunu Women Development Forum (BWDF) held over the weekend in Odo-Ape, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, Mrs Ododo stressed that unity among women was a catalyst for unstoppable progress.
“When a woman is supported, it builds her confidence and resilience,” Hajia Ododo declared.
Represented by the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs Margaret Salifu, the First Lady urged women to unite, support one another and speak out with one voice for a better society.
She envisioned the BWDF as a platform that promoted empowerment, love, security and dignity for women, enabling them to achieve their dreams and restore peace in their communities.
She further pledged her office’s continued collaboration with women’s groups to support education and empower women towards self-reliance and dignity.
“My office will work with valuable women groups to support women’s education and empower women to be self-reliant,” she affirmed.
Hajia Ododo also urged women to remain focused and committed to Kogi State’s development while supporting Governor Ahmed Ododo and President Bola Tinubu’s administrations.
She assured them of her unwavering support, encouraging them to believe in themselves and work together for community, state and national development.
The State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd), described the launch of the BWDF as a milestone for women’s empowerment and societal progress.
According to him, the BWDF would create opportunities in education, entrepreneurship and vocational skills for women across more than 40 communities in Bunu land.
Omodara assured of government backing for the forum’s objectives, stressing that empowered women would collaborate with authorities and security agencies to foster a safer society.
Also speaking, chairman of the occasion, Hon. Olayinka Braimoh, announced a scholarship award for 100 girl-children in Bunu land through his foundation.
He lauded Bunu women’s unity for empowerment and pledged continued support, while urging the government to sustain an enabling environment for women’s advancement.
In her keynote address, Professor Emily Alenika emphasised women’s central role in nation-building and societal security through the nurturing of virtuous children.
She advocated for women’s empowerment in education, entrepreneurship and politics through active mobilisation and participation.
The Chairman of Kabba-Bunu LGA, Barrister Dare Zacchaeus, praised Bunu women for their hard work and vision, pledging his support and commending the state government’s fight against banditry.
Mrs Bukola Aledare, President of the BWDF, highlighted the organisation’s mission to build capacity, promote economic independence and preserve cultural heritage among Bunu women.
“When a woman is empowered, a family is strengthened; when families are strong, communities prosper,” she said, calling on women to stand together in unity and love, supporting one another and mentoring younger generations.
The Obaro of Odo-Ape, His Royal Highness Oba Elijah Meseko, praised the women’s initiative and emphasised their crucial role in nation-building.
He assured of the traditional institution’s support for the BWDF’s empowerment objectives.
The highlight of the occasion was the unveiling of the BWDF logo by Mrs Salifu on behalf of the First Lady, featuring the motto, ‘Where Women Lead, Communities Prosper’.
She also presented empowerment items such as grinding machines, sewing machines and hair dryers to seven beneficiaries.