The Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Professor Ngozi Nma Odu, has delivered a resounding affirmation of the indispensable role women play in fostering sustainable development, peacebuilding, and economic prosperity across the Niger Delta.
Speaking on the 3rd of March at the Niger Delta Women Conference in Yenagoa, Professor Odu described the inclusion of women as a cornerstone for environmental stewardship and regional stability. The event, convened by the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), was themed: “Empowering Niger Delta Women for Enhanced Political Inclusion, Peace, and Development.”
The “Mother Hen” Philosophy
In an evocative address, the Deputy Governor lauded the conference as both timely and strategic, providing a vital nexus for dialogue and capacity building. Drawing a poignant analogy, she likened the nature of womanhood to that of a “mother hen,” noting their innate drive to protect and provide for the collective good.
“The mother hen protects her chicks. When danger approaches, she spreads her wings to shield them. When she finds food, she ensures her chicks eat first,” Professor Odu remarked. “That is the quintessence of women—protective, selfless, and nurturing.”
She further extended her gratitude to PANDEF and the British High Commission for their instrumental support of the initiative, urging participants to harness their “collective strength, resilience, and creativity” to drive lasting progress.
A Call for Unity and Leadership
The occasion was graced by the former First Lady of Nigeria, Dame Patience Jonathan, who served as the Special Guest of Honour. In a spirited address, Dame Jonathan implored Nigerian women to transcend partisan divides and advocate for greater representation in leadership.
“Let us love and support one another; let us walk in unity and be proud of our identity,” she stated. “What a man can do, we can do even better. We are strong, capable, and resourceful.”
Strategic Advocacy and Governance
The PANDEF National Woman Leader, Mrs Grace Ekong, reaffirmed the forum’s commitment to equality and environmental sustainability. She explained that the conference aimed to equip women with the educational tools and capacity required to engage more robustly in regional governance. Mrs Ekong also noted that PANDEF remains in active consultation with the Federal Government regarding the unique challenges facing the Niger Delta.
In a keynote address that harmonised the day’s deliberations, Professor Maureen Etebu emphasised that the theme reflected a regional commitment to elevating women as primary architects of governance. She concluded that meaningful progress in the Niger Delta is inextricably linked to the empowerment and leadership of women at every echelon of society.
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