IWD: DEPOWA calls for policies promoting women’s empowerment

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Mrs Oghogho Musa, President of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), has called on institutions and individuals to accelerate actions and implement more policies and programmes.

She emphasised the importance of these initiatives in promoting women’s empowerment and inclusion.

Musa made the call during the Health Walk organised by DEPOWA to commemorate the 2025 International Women’s Day, with the theme “Women and Health: #Accelerate Action,” on Saturday in Abuja.

She stated that the theme of the year resonated deeply with them as they strived for a more inclusive, gender-equitable society, adding that progress was being made toward achieving gender equality.

According to her, women and girls around the world continue to face numerous challenges, including discrimination, violence, female genital mutilation, unequal access to opportunities, and more.

“In spite of these challenges, women have consistently demonstrated their resilience, determination, and collective action.

“We have seen firsthand the impact that women have when they serve and lead. From the battlefield to the boardroom, women are breaking barriers.

“At DEPOWA, we are committed to empowering women, promoting women’s empowerment, and providing support to women and families in need.

“Today, we are not only celebrating the achievements of women but also recommitting ourselves to the pursuit of gender parity.

“We are calling on institutions and individuals to accelerate action and implement more policies and programmes that promote women’s empowerment and inclusion,” she said.

Musa thanked First Lady Oluremi Tinubu for her motherly support to DEPOWA through her Renewed Hope Initiative and women’s empowerment programmes.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the DEPOWA President led wives of officers, soldiers, ratings, and airmen of the Armed Forces and police, as well as other paramilitary agencies, in the health walk.

International Women’s Day, celebrated on March 8, is a global day set aside to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women worldwide. (NAN)