By Paul Effiong, Abuja
Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to support initiatives that will empower women and families in order to uplift vulnerable groups.
The minister gave the assurance yesterday at the National Assembly Complex during the launch of Ene Obi Development Centre, EODC.
She informed that the occasion was a significant milestone in the national drive for gender equality and social inclusion.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim described the EODC as “a beacon of light shining brightly in the pursuit of a better future for Nigerian women, girls, families and the less privileged,” noting that the centre’s emphasis on training, skills acquisition and support services reflects the transformative power of education and hard work.
She said the federal government remains committed to policies and programmes that will improve the lives of women and vulnerable populations.
The minister also assured stakeholders of continuous collaboration, stating that the Ministry of Women Affairs is open to partnerships that promote women’s empowerment, improved family life and protect the rights of disadvantaged groups. She expressed confidence that the centre would serve as a catalyst for sustainable development and social justice across communities.
In his remarks, the Executive Director of African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development, Centre LSD, Dr Otive Igbuzor called on government to protect civic freedoms, uphold human rights and expand democratic spaces for public participation.
He also urged the National Assembly to fast-track the passage of the Reserved Seat Bill, stressing the need for greater political representation for women.
In her address, the former first lady of Imo State, Mrs Nkechi Okorocha praised the founder of the centre, Ene Obi, describing her as a passionate advocate and strong believer in the potential of Nigerian women.
She said Nigeria possesses enormous potentials and can achieve transformative change through the collective efforts of committed women and men dedicated to national progress.
Country Representative of ActionAid Nigeria, Dr Andrew Mamedu described Obi as bold, fearless and compassionate, noting that ActionAid is proud to partner EODC.
He said the organisation aims to help lift five million Nigerians out of poverty within the next nine years and stressed that strong partnerships with institutions like EODC are critical to achieving that goal.
Also speaking, the founder of EODC said the inauguration marked the beginning of a long-envisioned journey to support women and young people.
She noted that the centre would prioritise mentorship, youth leadership, gender equality and governance reforms, while promoting transparency, accountability and social justice, and called on government agencies, development partners, academia, and the private sector to collaborate and hold the centre accountable to its mission.
