Amidst the stirring melodies of the Nigerian national anthem and the resounding echoes of the women’s anthem, the inauguration ceremony of the National Council of Women’s Societies (NCWS) Executive Committee unfolded in a momentous event at the Ministry of Women’s Affairs in Rivers State’s vibrant capital, Port Harcourt.
Under the theme “Invest in women, accelerate progress, inspire inclusion,” the ceremony epitomized the spirit of service, unity, peace, and love as embodied in the NCWS motto. The proceedings commenced with a solemn opening prayer led by the esteemed Women Chairman, setting the tone for an occasion brimming with purpose and promise.
Gracing the stage with elegance and grace, Princess Jetiba Soberekon, State President of the NCWS, took center stage, greeted by an audience pulsating with anticipation. The air hummed with anticipation as the former Minister of Women Affairs was introduced, underscoring the importance of the occasion in the annals of women’s empowerment.
In a stirring moment, the master of ceremonies echoed a poignant truth, declaring, “You aren’t disabled because you are a woman,” a rallying cry that reverberated throughout the venue, igniting a fervor of determination and resilience among attendees.
Different speeches were made by notable and well respected women in the State.
As the distinguished Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Prof. Ngozi Odu’s representative Dr. Doris Oyiri JP, made a grand entrance, the room paused in deference, acknowledging the significance of governmental support for the cause of women’s empowerment.
In their separate speeches, the Deputy Governor’s representative and the Commissioner for Women Affairs, urged women to support one another, and the administration of the State Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara, under whose leadership policies affecting women have been given great priority.
The inauguration of the Women’s EXCOs followed suit, a symbolic gesture of leadership passing the torch to a new generation of trailblazers at the Various Local Government Areas in the State.
Notable dignitaries including Mrs. Roseline Apawari Uranta, Commissioner of Women Affairs, lent their esteemed presence to the occasion, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing the rights and opportunities of women in society.
In a regal touch, a Royal Highness graced the ceremony with a goodwill message, emphasizing the profound impact of women’s leadership on the fabric of society, a testament to the enduring legacy of empowerment and progress.
As the strains of the national anthem reverberated through the hall once more, the ceremony drew to a close, imbued with a sense of pride and purpose. With a final prayer from the Chairman of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Rivers State Chapter, Dr. Ken Osunwa and a heartfelt vote of thanks from the President of NCWS Okrika Chapter, Mrs Boma Ibanichuka, the inauguration ceremony of the NCWS LGA Executives concluded, marking a new chapter in the ongoing journey towards gender equality and empowerment.
Reported by DAIRO AYOMIDE JEPHTHAH.
