Diamond Ladies, the women wing of Friends Initiative have charged the women of Enugu State to rise up and take their place in the economic development of Enugu State.
The group made the call during their maiden annual conference held in Enugu on Wednesday.
Speaking at the event with theme “Enhancing women’s participation in the economic development of Enugu State,” Ambassador Chinemerem Anyi, the state coordinator of Diamond Ladies said they event is aimed at raising the consciousness of the women to take their place in the society and also enable them to come out their shell economically, Politically and others.
“We’re here to tell the women that they’re not meant for the farm or kitchen alone. Naturally, everything you give to a woman has a multiplier effect but unfortunately, some women are beginning to buy the narrative sold by others about themselves and we’re here to tell them to be who God has called them to be.
“We’re calling on our women to join hands with the government to do their beat in growing the economy, to ensure that their families are better. We’re here to tell them about the need to be a part of the renaissance in growing our economy.
“Our women should come out and not wait to be prodded over the things they should do. They should own it, take the bull by the horn and change the narrative because the time is now.”
Ambassador Anyi also revealed that they’ve been inaugurated as one of the clusters of Country Women Association of Nigeria (COWAN) and they will form a synergy with COWAN to better the lives of their members.
In her remark, the Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Ngozi Enih expressed delight with the group and encouraged them to keep the fire burning as his ministry is open to partnering with organisations like theirs.
“In this event, I see women who wants to explore positively and also contribute positively to our society. I see them as women who has the capacity to deliver on any mandate given to them, they’re focused, hardworking and resilient and I pray they’re given the opportunity to showcase their potentials.
“Our ministry is open to partner with any organisation that shares in our mandate and align with the vision of His Excellency, Dr Peter Mbah, which is to eradicate poverty.
“Organizations like this help us in achieving our mandate, thus, our doors are open for positive collaboration, especially when it has to do with women, vulnerable persons and those living with disabilities.”
The keynote speaker, Uma Uche Gebriel charged them to understand that “Women are more powerful than men,” and urged them to tap into this strength to push their agenda.
Uma encouraged them to continue to organise themselves and not agonise that they’re not invited.
“Don’t wait to be invited to the table, you’ve to invite yourself because can’t beg yourself into relevance. You have to organise yourself rather than agonise and come out as the force you’re and the men will recognise you.
Speaking further, he noted pointed out that the women should realise that “advocacy isn’t begging and I think it boils down to what they do during the election; where they mobilise for those in government and after, they’re not considered in the scheme of things.
“Women should understand how invaluable they’re and begin to do real advocacy and develop programmes even for the younger ladies.”
Uma reminded the men that no sane society can survive without puting the women in their programmes.
Also speaking at the event the national president of COWAN, Princess Ade Ogunleye said they’re happy to inaugurate the Enugu chapter of COWAN so that they can begin to benefit from the many activities of their organisation.
Mrs. Ogunleye who was represented by Dr. Ezekiel Osioma stated that COWAN is an internationally recognised umbrella body for women to empower and assist women to achieve their dreams and also support their families.
The organisation has commenced the process of empowering 150 members of the organisation.
