Governor's Wife Commits to Women's Empowerment in Enugu on International Women’s Day

The First Lady of Enugu State, Nkechinyere Mbah, has emphasized her unwavering commitment to enhancing the welfare, protection, and empowerment of women and girls in the state.

Mrs. Mbah expressed this dedication during a medical outreach event held at Okpara Square in Enugu, in honor of the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD).

According to reports from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), IWD is globally observed on March 8 to celebrate women's contributions to society and raise awareness about issues impacting their rights and opportunities.

The theme for the 2026 celebration is "Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls," while the overarching global campaign theme is "Give to Gain."

At the event on Saturday in Enugu, Mrs. Mbah explained that the theme is meant to urge collective conscience, responsibility, and action to promote the rights and well-being of women and girls.

Speaking through the Wife of the Enugu Speaker, Chinyere Ugwu, Mrs. Mbah noted that women and girls worldwide still encounter discrimination, violence, and exclusion due to their gender.

She pointed out that many women continue to be deprived of access to quality educational facilities, healthcare, equal opportunities, and a secure environment where they can flourish.

Mrs. Mbah reaffirmed her resolve to advocate for initiatives focusing on the welfare and empowerment of women and girls. This includes promoting girl-child education, enhancing maternal health services, performing campaigns against gender-based violence, and developing economic empowerment programs.

"We know that empowering women strengthens communities, and securing the safety of women and girls ensures a safer future for all," she stated.

She recognized the resilience and bravery of women in Enugu State, highlighting their crucial roles as farmers, educators, healthcare providers, entrepreneurs, and public servants.

"Our women are industrious, and they deserve a society that upholds their rights, delivers justice, and amplifies their voices," she added.

Mrs. Mbah stressed that ensuring women's rights includes giving every girl child access to a quality education, high-standard healthcare, and the necessary opportunities to fulfill their ambitions.

She called for the eradication of child marriage, trafficking, harmful cultural practices, and all forms of gender violence.

Regarding justice for victims of gender-based violence, she emphasized the importance of believing and protecting survivors and underscored the need for law enforcement and institutional responses that reflect women's realities.

She encouraged attendees at the outreach to commit to defending the rights of women and to take actionable steps at home, in their workplaces, and within their communities to enhance safety and welfare for women and girls.

Additionally, Chimezie Atama, the Chief Executive Officer of the Equity Watch Initiative, highlighted the significance of personal development, setting goals, and self-care for women. Ms. Atama, who serves as an associate professor at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka’s Department of Sociology and Anthropology, described IWD as a worldwide movement that acknowledges advances made by women while advocating for increased efforts towards gender equality.

Ms. Atama also noted that the "Give to Gain" campaign promotes investment in women through mentorship, resources, and opportunities, reinforcing the idea that the success of women positively impacts their communities and society.

She urged women to identify their values, set clear objectives, and prioritize their well-being to attain leadership and influence.

Earlier, Chidinma Egeonu, the Senior Special Assistant to Mrs. Mbah on Special Duties, stated that the empowerment initiative aimed to uplift women leaders from all 17 local government areas of the state during the event. Ms. Egeonu explained that this program was designed to motivate these leaders who work as grassroots mobilizers in their communities.

In her statements, Egodi Igwe, Managing Director of the Custos Care Foundation, announced that a free medical outreach was organized to provide women with medical empowerment, aimed at enhancing their health and ensuring they received complimentary consultations and treatments.

The event attracted various women leaders, community organizations, and stakeholders from across the state who came together to celebrate women's achievements and advocate for gender equality.