Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to eradicate harmful cultural practices and address gender-based issues in the state.
He says his goal is to foster a more gender-equitable society.
Speaking at the United Nations UN Women and Partners Open Day Event in Calabar, Governor Otu, represented by his Special Adviser on General Duties, Ekpenyong Akiba, emphasized the need to abolish any culture that contradicted justice, equity, and conscience.
He stated that gender equality was a fundamental human right issue, not merely a feminist agenda and called for equal opportunities for women in leadership roles.
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The Paramount Ruler of Obanliku, His Royal Majesty Uchua Amos Item, praised UN Women’s efforts in addressing harmful practices such as “money marriage” and female genital mutilation, and urged continued support to combat traditional prohibitions against female inheritance.
Ini Adiakpan, Dean of Nigeria’s Commissioners for Women Affairs, and the UN Women Country Representative, Beatrice Eyong, highlighted the importance of ongoing advocacy and economic empowerment for women to ensure their significant involvement in leadership roles.
The event ended with a call to action of stakeholders to intensify their efforts in creating an inclusive environment where women and girls can thrive, reinforcing the collective commitment towards a gender-equal society.
(Editor: Paul Akhagbemhe)
