DEPOWA President, Paulen Tallen Inspires Women on International Women Day
By Aysha S. Rabo
In a powerful and inspiring joint celebration of International Women’s Day 2024, Mrs. Oghogho Musa, the president of DEPOWA (Defense and Police Officers Wives Association), and special guest of honour, Paulen Tallen, shared their insights and calls to action during DEPOWA’s International Women’s Day Celebration in Abuja.
As the audience gathered for this significant occasion, Mrs. Oghogho Musa took the stage to express her gratitude and honour at the opportunity to address the global celebration of International Women’s Day. She underscored the evolution of the day’s celebration, recognising the establishment of various women’s groups, including DEPOWA, which have played pivotal roles in advocating for women’s participation in societal development.
Acknowledging the collective efforts of well-meaning Nigerians and organisations that have supported DEPOWA, Mrs. Musa stressed the importance of continued support from society, urging family members and colleagues to join their noble cause for the empowerment of women.
The chosen theme for 2024, “Inspire Inclusion,” resonated with her, encouraging everyone to recognise the unique perspectives and contributions of women from all walks of life. She reflected on the countless women who have broken barriers, challenged societal norms, and paved the way for a more inclusive world.
Mrs. Musa celebrated the achievements of women globally, from science and politics to business and the arts, while acknowledging that the journey towards gender equality is ongoing. She called for building a world where every woman and girl can fulfill her potential and contribute talents to society.
“I urge every individualsl to look beyond gender stereotypes, dismantle discriminatory practices, and execute people-driven programs that contribute to policies promoting women’s rights and empowerment,” she said, expressing deep appreciation to the First Lady of Nigeria, Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu CON, for her continuous support to women.
Mrs. Musa wished everyone a Happy International Women’s Day 2024, emphasising the need to look beyond past achievements and rededicate themselves to future goals.
Following Mrs. Musa’s powerful address, Paulen Tallen, a former minister of Women Affairs, and the special guest of honour, took the stage to offer prayers and share her insights on the significance of the event. She thanked God for the wisdom of the DEPOWA president in organising the program to commemorate International Women’s Day.
Mrs. Tallen called on attendees to stand in prayers for their husbands, emphasising the crucial role of women as the “engine room of prayers.”
Addressing the security challenges facing Nigeria, Mrs. Tallen stressed the importance of prayers in resolving these issues. She commended the wife of the Chief of Defence Staff as a woman of prayers and a prayer warrior, urging the wives of service chiefs to engage in prayers for the president, the First Lady, and especially the security chiefs fighting insecurity across the country.
Emphasising the need for women’s inclusion in decision-making processes for national development, Mrs. Tallen highlighted the significance of International Women’s Day in amplifying this need. She advocated for more women at decision-making tables to ensure the creation of laws that protect women’s rights and the family.
In conclusion, the joint celebration of International Women’s Day by Mrs. Oghogho Musa and Paulen Tallen emphasised the importance of continued advocacy, support, and prayers for the empowerment of women and the creation of a more inclusive and equal society.
Dignitaries present at the occasion were President NAOWA, Mrs Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja, the representative of President NOWA Mrs Bukola Bankole, the President NAFOWA, Architect Rakiya Abubakar, the President POWA, Dr Mrs Elizabeth Egbetokun, the President COWA Mrs Kikelomo Adeniyi, President ROSOWA, Hajiya Aisha Biu, the President National Council of women Societies Hajiya lami Adamu Lau, the executive secretary National commission for persons with disabilities, represented by My Lawrence Idemudia,female officers of the Armed Forces and other security agenciest, members of officers wives Associations amongst others.
DEPOWA President, Paulen Tallen Inspires Women on International Women Day
