As Nigeria joins other African nations to mark the 2025 International day
of women and girls of African descent, a human rights crusader, Professor
Joy Ezeilo, has stressed the need for society to use the occasion to reflect
on the past injustices against women and eliminate all manner of
discrimination.
She said the celebration should also be used to foster positive change to
dismantle barriers faced by women and girls of African descent.
Ezeilo, in a statement she personally signed and made available to
newsmen on Friday in Enugu.
According to her, the International Day of Women and Girls of African
Descent, observed annually on July 25, honours the resilience and
achievements of women and girls of African heritage.
While hinting that the day was established by the United Nations General
Assembly, the human rights crusader added that it serves as a call to
action for justice, equality, and recognition.
She lamented that African women and girls have historically faced
challenges such as systemic racism, gender-based violence, and economic
marginalization.
Despite these obstacles, Ezeilo maintained, their contributions enrich
societies worldwide, spanning diverse fields from politics to the arts.
The traditional ruler of Ishienu Amaofu Nkerefi autonomous community in
Nkanu East Local Government Area of Enugu State, Igwe Michael
Ogbonnaya, has promised to engender unity and lasting peace in the
community.
This, according to him, will enable him to gather all the support he needs to
ensure the community is developed and moved forward.
Ogbonnaya stated this on Friday during his coronation and installation as
the traditional ruler of Ishienu Amaofu Nkerefi.
The event was attended by many indigenes and dignitaries who came to
witness the colourful coronation.
