As part of its initiatives to commemorate the 2024 International Women's Day, a non-governmental organization, Caritas Development and Health Initiative (CDHI), has called for collective efforts in exploring innovative strategies that will unlock the full potential of every woman in the society.

CDHI made the call at its one-day Symposium held in Abuja where stakeholders brainstormed on how to advanced the place in the society.

The event whose aim was to encourage government and stakeholders to prioritise women empowerment, well-being, and inclusivity across all level, has as its theme 'Empowering women in Nigeria: fostering inclusivity for sustainable development'

In her address, founder and executive director of CDHI, Mrs Blessing Olugbuyi, emphasised that the key objective of the inaugural symposium was to honor and celebrate women in Nigeria while striving to eliminate their marginalisation, both nationally and globally.

"We aim to address the issue of gender inequality by advocating for increased representation of women, particularly in fields traditionally dominated by men such as science, politics, and technical jobs. Our goal is to ensure active participation and engagement of women in these areas," she said.

According to her, the symposium functions as a forum for dialogue, collaboration, and motivation to address the plight of the Nigerian woman.

She, however, expressed gratitude for the presence of esteemed speakers, experts, and advocates who share the organizations commitment to women's empowerment.

Appreciating support from UNESCO, PLAN International, UNFPA, UN Women, the French Embassy, Scholar Media Africa in Kenya, and other important stakeholders, Olugbuyi highlighted that CDHI has effectively conducted a series of educational and sensitization outreach programs on sexual reproductive rights in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Anambra, Kebbi Benue State, and others, as part of its commitment to enhancing the well-being of women and young people in Nigeria.

However, in order to facilitate the comprehensive inclusion of women and enable them to fulfill their potential, Olugbuyi urged policymakers, civil society organisations, and all stakeholders to promptly address the following areas: prioritising women's education, eliminating gender-based violence, and promoting economic empowerment.

Additional action points encompass ensuring equal political representation, guaranteeing access to quality healthcare, cultivating a culture of inclusivity and gender equality, and enhancing collaboration and accountability measures.

The symposium's focal point featured a discussion panel session, a short film on gender-based violence, a question and answer segment, and a group photograph with participants.

During the symposium, 20 women were selected for empowerment trainings after the event and business set up for 2 participants.

The symposium concluded with a powerful call to action led by Dr. Charles Usie and Blessing Olugbuyi. Participants urged the government and the international community to prioritise women's empowerment, well-being, and inclusivity.

The collective vision included prioritising women's education, eliminating gender-based violence, promoting economic empowerment, ensuring equal political representation, guaranteeing access to quality healthcare, fostering a culture of inclusivity, and strengthening collaboration and accountability.

In her closing remarks, Olugbuyi expressed gratitude to all participants, sponsors, and supporters, highlighting the unwavering commitment to advancing gender equality, women's health, empowerment, and inclusivity.

She called upon everyone to carry forward the spirit of the discussions, emphasizing unity in creating a future that uplifts women in Nigeria and beyond.

Caritas Development and Health Initiative remains committed to its mission of empowering women and contributing to the betterment of society.


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L-R: United Nations Fund for Population Activities (UNFPA), Rep Dr. Hamira Welye; National Programme Analyst UNFPA, Sheila Courage; Clemency Zere Ishaya; Dr. Lawrence Babatunde Aremu; Director Special Duties, NCCE representing Executive Secretary, NCCE; Blessing Olugbuyi, Executive Director, CDHI; Dr. Stephen Onyekwelu; National Programme Officer and Literacy Specialist, Representing the Head of Office, UNESCO, Abuja; and Country Director, Plan International Nigeria, Dr. Charles Usie, at a symposium to mark the 2024 Int'l Women's Day in Abuja.