The call for legislative reforms to combat gender-based violence (GBV) took center stage at the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration organized by the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), 82 Division chapter, in partnership with the Women Empowerment Education and Peace Building Initiative (WEPBI).
Speaking at the event, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 82 Division, Nigerian Army, Enugu, Major General Oluyemi Olatoye, urged women to actively push for legislative measures that would provide support and protection for GBV victims. He emphasized that victims of such violence—whether physical or sexual—should not be abandoned but rather assisted in their recovery.
General Olatoye also highlighted the need to challenge societal norms that perpetuate gender inequalities, particularly in education. He advocated for equal educational opportunities for the girl child and called on NAOWA to expand its skills acquisition programs within the 82 Division to empower more women. Additionally, he encouraged successful women to engage in mentorship to uplift others.
In her remarks, the Chairperson of NAOWA, 82 Division, Mrs. Oritseseyisan Adeola Olatoye, expressed her hope that the event would inspire women to break barriers and strive for personal and professional growth. She also acknowledged the contributions of women as wives and caregivers, emphasizing that they have much more to offer to society.
Delivering a lecture on "Personal Development," the Executive Director of WEPBI, Mrs. Ijeoma Joy Oguadinma, advised women to have a clear vision for their future, embrace personal growth, and nurture their spiritual well-being. She encouraged them to read books regularly as a means of self-improvement.
The event also featured a presentation on maternal health by Dr. Osuorah Chiefo Stephanie from the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), who sensitized participants on critical issues affecting maternal well-being.
The colorful and impactful event reinforced the importance of legislative action, education, mentorship, and personal development in advancing women's empowerment and addressing gender-based violence in Nigeria.