The Special Assistant to the Abia State Governor on Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Mrs. Matilda Anyamele, has joined women across the globe to celebrate the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD), highlighting the significance of this year’s theme: Accelerate Action – Empower Women’s Equality.
Speaking at a commemorative event at the International Conference Centre Umuahia, Mrs. Anyamele emphasized the need for continuous investment in women’s empowerment, noting that such efforts drive societal progress and economic development.
Mrs. Anyamele commended the First Lady of Abia State, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, for her unwavering commitment to protecting the girl child from violence, abuse, and gender-based discrimination.
She lauded the First Lady’s numerous initiatives, including the Safe Haven for Girls program, which provides shelter, legal aid, and counseling for victims of rape and other forms of abuse.
According to Mrs Anyamele, these interventions are crucial in ensuring that every girl in Abia State grows up in a safe and supportive environment.
The Special Assistant also underscored the importance of cultural and creative initiatives in fostering gender equality, pointing out that through arts and cultural programs, young girls in Abia State are being educated on their rights and empowered to express themselves boldly.
“When we invest in the creative economy, we create opportunities for women and girls to thrive, breaking the cycle of poverty and abuse,” she said.
Mrs. Anyamele further called for stronger partnerships between the government, civil society, and the private sector to address gender-based violence and other social vices affecting women and girls. She urged policymakers to enact and implement laws that will further protect women’s rights and ensure that perpetrators of gender-based violence are brought to justice.
“It is not just about celebrating women today, but about taking action that secures their future,” she stressed.
As the world marks International Women’s Day, Mrs. Anyamele encouraged women in Abia State to continue striving for excellence and to support one another in advancing gender equality.
She reiterated her commitment to working alongside the government and stakeholders to promote arts, culture, and economic opportunities for women, ensuring that the 2025 theme of empowering Women’s Equality becomes a reality in Abia State.
