By Senator Onyekwere
As part of her ongoing efforts to alleviate poverty in Nigeria, the National Council of Women’s Societies (NCWS) has empowered ten of her members in Imo State with small business grants.
Speaking on behalf of the National President of NCWS, Princess Edna D.D. Azura Kwatam Mutaku, during the empowerment programme held at the NCWS Complex in Owerri, the National Public Relations Officer (PRO), Dr. Lady Ijeoma Nnennaya Udensi, reaffirmed the council’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerian women and girls.
She praised the National President and her Executive team for prioritising grassroots outreach to support women in rural communities through small business funding.
Dr. Udensi highlighted that the empowerment initiative, which was initiated by the past acting National President, Obongnwan Geraldine Etuk, aligns with NCWS’s mission to be the voice of the voiceless.
She noted that the programme also reflects the policy thrust of the National President, Princess Edna D.D Azura, Kwatam Mutaku, the peoples princess, which was unveiled during her 100 days in office celebration—thus inspiring the current nationwide outreach.
She emphasised that empowering women is critical to Nigeria’s economic recovery, especially at a time when many families are struggling to meet basic needs.
She encouraged the beneficiaries to utilize the funds wisely to grow their petty trading businesses.
Dr. Udensi also commended the Imo State President, Lady Stella Anyacho, for increasing the number of grant recipients beyond the initially recommended number, thereby reaching more women across all zones of the state.
Coinciding with the World Menstrual Hygiene Day, the event also included advocacy for menstrual health.
Dr. Udensi called on NCWS members and the public to join in the campaign to end period poverty and promote proper hygiene during menstruation.
She stressed the importance of teaching young girls healthy habits and encouraging the use of sanitary pads.
She urged members to use the occasion of World Menstrual Hygiene Day to distribute free sanitary pads to schoolgirls and girls in local communities.
This, she said, would help eliminate the use of unsafe materials during menstruation and reduce school absenteeism caused by period-related challenges. Promoting hygiene, she added, builds self-confidence and supports the overall well-being of girls.
Describing NCWS as the umbrella body for Nigerian women’s associations, she reiterated its role as a champion of gender justice and advocate for the welfare of women and families.
Also speaking at the event, Chief Mrs. Ego Ibeh, PRO of the NCWS Imo State Chapter, who represented the State President, Lady Stella Anyacho, advised beneficiaries to make judicious use of the grant.
She also encouraged every council member to embark on massive enlightenment to educate young girls on safe menstrual practices.
Two beneficiaries, Mrs. Obijiofor Ruphina and Mrs. Opara Emilia, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the National Executive for the kind gesture and prayed for the continued strength and success of the organisation.
Present at the event were several members of the Imo State NCWS Executive, including the Financial Secretary, Chief Mrs.Tessy Nwuzo; the State Research Coordinator, Hon Mrs Martina Igbo; Ex Officio member, Dame Ada Okorie and Hon. Chief (Mrs) Oby Egejuru, President of Ikeduru chapter, representing all the LGA Presidents, and members of the press.