SPEECH BY HER EXCELLENCY, HAJIA SEFINAT USMAN ODODO, WIFE OF THE GOVERNOR OF KOGI STATE, ON THE OCCASION OF INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 2025

SPEECH BY HER EXCELLENCY, HAJIA SEFINAT USMAN ODODO, WIFE OF THE GOVERNOR OF KOGI STATE, ON THE OCCASION OF INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 2025
1. It is with great joy and a deep sense of responsibility that I stand before you today representing Her Excellency Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, the First Lady of Kogi State to celebrate the International Women’s Day 2025. This year’s theme, “Accelerate Action for Gender Equality,” is not just a statement; it is a call to move forward with greater speed and determination. It reminds us that progress must not be slow—it must be intentional and bold. It will be a thing of joy to see Kogi women leading this noble charge.
2. Across the world and here in Kogi State, women have made giant strides in business, politics and education. Yet, we still face barriers that limit our opportunities and slow down our progress. It is time to break these chains faster than ever before. It is time to ensure that every girl can go to school, that every woman can work without discrimination, and that every mother has access to quality healthcare. Kogi has set a good platform with the Child Rights Act and the free education and bursary scheme. It is now in the hands of parents to take advantage of these opportunities and empower our children with education. Without education, we can’t take effective action.
3. Achieving gender equality is not just a women’s fight but a collective responsibility. When we empower women, we empower the nation. When we educate girls, we uplift communities. When we support women in leadership, we build a better society for everyone. This is why we must not wait any longer. We must act now, and we must act together.
4. In Kogi State, we are committed to ensuring that women have the support and opportunities they need to succeed. Through various initiatives, we are working to promote education for girls, provide healthcare for women, and support women in business. But we must do more. I call on every leader, every organization, and every individual to join hands in accelerating action for gender equality.
5. To the women of Kogi State, I say: You are strong, you are capable, and your dreams are valid. Never let anything hold you back. Stand tall, speak up, and take your rightful place in society. Your voice matters, your work matters, and your future is bright.
6. As we celebrate today, let us remember that true change comes from action. Let us not just talk about gender equality, let us live it, practice it, and demand for it. Together, we can build a world where every woman and girl has the chance to reach her full potential.
7. ⁠ Let me use this opportunity to thank the hardworking mother of our nation, Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON for leading from the front to ensure that women are empowered to Accelerate Action for Gender Equality. With you, we have rediscovered our voices. Our women are grateful and their voices of appreciation are loud. With you, we are empowered to accelerate action.
8. ⁠ To our men, the stronger we are, the stronger you are. Our strength is for your greatness. Join hands with us to ensure gender equality.
9. ⁠To all women that are here and those watching me from their homes, I assure you that I will be with you all the way. It is our day, let us rejoice and be glad in it .
10. ⁠God bless you all. I love you all. No woman, No nation.
11. Thank you, and happy International Women’s Day to you all.
Her Excellency Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo
Wife of the Kogi State Governor