By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
March 8, 2025
The First Lady of Kogi State, Her Excellency Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, has pledged unwavering commitment to women in their pursuit of education for self-sufficiency.
In a statement issued by by the Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor Mr Unubi Emmanuel revealed that, Hajia Sefinat Ododo made the pledge in her message during the commemoration of the 2025 International Women’s Day at the Government House in Lokoja on Saturday.
Represented by the Deputy Governor’s wife, Deaconess Margaret Eleojo Salifu, the First Lady emphasized the crucial need for women to thrive through their own initiatives.
Expressing profound joy and a profound sense of duty in celebrating the annual International Women’s Day, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo highlighted this year’s theme, “Accelerate Action for Gender Equality,” as not merely rhetoric but a compelling call to advance swiftly and resolutely.
She urged stakeholders to acknowledge that progress in education should not be sluggish, emphasizing the necessity for deliberate and courageous actions.
The First Lady noted that witnessing women and girls in Kogi State take the lead in enhancing women’s education locally and nationally would bring immense satisfaction.
She noted that despite significant achievements by women in business, politics, and education worldwide, persistent barriers continue to impede their opportunities and impede their progress. She stressed the urgency of breaking these constraints swiftly for the benefit of women globally.
Furthermore, she stressed the imperative of ensuring that every girl and woman has access to education, enabling them to engage in work without bias.
Commending the state government’s efforts in providing quality healthcare access, as well as implementing the Child Rights Act and offering free education and bursaries, the First Lady encouraged parents to capitalize on these opportunities to empower their children with a quality education.
Hajia Sefinat Ododo expressed gratitude to the President’s wife, Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her dedication to empowering women in expediting action for gender equality.
