Date: Friday, 28th June 2019
Time: 11:00am
Venue: News Agency of Nigeria Hall (NAN), The National Theatre Complex Annex, Iganmu, Lagos.
Theme : Widows Rights and Patriarchy
The programme commenced with an opening prayer by Evangelist Grace Chima. The MC, Mr Modestus Nwaulu recognized distinguished personalities such as Dr Ifeoma Utomi, Barr. Mrs Ojukwu, Mrs Babra Odoh, Ms Susan Eshette and Barr. Boma Alabi.
Prof. Mrs. Utomi gave the opening remarks and she reiterated on how the centre will try her best in supporting the widows in spite of the tough economic climate. She concluded her speech by saying “ Once there is life, there is hope.”
The profile of Barr. Boma Alabi was read, after which she spoke on ‘Widows Rights and Patriarchy.’ She emphasized on the facts that the culture then did not stigmatize women, and women had rights just like men. She told many personal stories to drive home her points. She encouraged women to know their rights. She mentioned that she is committed to taking up cases such as the violation of widow’s rights.
The panel discussion commenced immediately after Barr Boma concluded her presentation. On the panel was Barr. Boma Alabi, Mrs. Babra Odoh and Ms. Susan Eshett. The panel discussion was moderated by Ms. Susan Eshett. During the panel discussion, Barr. Boma commented that “women’s rights are human’s rights and I get involved with gender right in my profession because I am a woman.” According to Mrs. Babra, she said “I have no regret for being a female. and I’m also an advocate for women coming to do politics.”
After the panel session, the women were quizzed on the IWD programme and the women that answered the questions correctly were rewarded. Miss Favour Augustine, the daughter of Mrs Grace Augustine was given a scholarship by Ms Susan Eshett’s foundation. The scholarship was presented by Dr Ifeoma Utomi and the scholarship covers up to the higher institution. The recipient, Miss Favour was grateful for the scholarship she received and she also talked about educating the girl child as they also have the capabilities to do well. The mother was also grateful for the scholarship her daughter received.
There was dancing competition among the widows after which Mrs. Francisca Ukabiala gave the vote of thanks. The programme ended at 1:40 pm. Refreshment was served to the widows and they were also given detergents and ‘M aggi’ (seasoning cubes) courtesy of Unilever.
