Nigerian women rally for peace as Sambo promises women would soon lead security agencies

Thousands of women partook in the Abuja rally.

Thousands of women on Thursday partook in a rally for the celebration of peace and empowerment of Nigerian women.

The rally, which started from old parade ground and ended at the Eagle Square in Abuja, was organised by the National Council of Women Societies. It brought women from all parts of the country as the women showcased various cultures and performances.

Speaking at the event, the First Lady, Patience Jonathan, appreciated the president for giving women the opportunity to be heard. She called on everyone to get involved in the promotion of peace in the country.

“We note that when there is peace, there will be development. We need collective effort to achieve peace. Age should not be a limitation in bringing peace .Everyone must join hands with this administration to fulfil this. We thank President Jonathan in not only making us to be heard, but ensuring that women occupy key positions in government,” Mrs. Jonathan said.

“We also thank state governors who have ensured that our women are appointed to key positions. Nigerian women must speak with one voice.”

The first lady called on the National Assembly to follow her husband’s footsteps to ensure that 35 per cent affirmative action on women is implemented.

“I call on our lawmakers to ensure that the 35 per cent affirmative action is implemented. We need to empower our women so that they can contribute to nation building,” she said.

Also speaking, the Vice President, Namadi Sambo, said the present administration has supported women in politics.

“We have actively supported women in politics. We have significantly increased the representation of women in government appointments. We have fulfilled the 35 per cent affirmative action by appointing women into key government positions,” Mr. Sambo said.

He also said that SURE-P targets over 500, 000 women; and that women would soon lead Nigeria’s security agencies.

“Our SURE-P targets over 500,000 women…and very soon, our women will lead the security agencies. The pivotal role of women in politics cannot be ignored,” he said

The rally was attended by women from all walks of life including the military, paramilitary, politics, civil society, business, and the informal sector.

Entertainers and actors including Onyeka Onwenu, Patience Ozokwor, Inyanya, Kaycee, and Helen Paul performed at the event.