Nigerians have been asked to ensure that women and girls in the country are given all the support that they need to enable them fulfill their God given talents and aspirations. Barr. (Mrs.) Uche Rosemary Ekwubisi, President, Catholic Women Organisation of Nigeria (CWON), St. Monica Catholic Church, Maza-Maza, Amuwo, Lagos, gave the charge at the induction of over one hundred women in the parish as members of CWON. Acknowledging the people, especially men that turned out to support the women at the induction ceremony, Ekwubisi said women could contribute quite a lot to their families and the nation, if encouraged and supported in their endeavours. According to her, “These noble inductees” tagged, “Shining Stars of Our Blessed Mother Mary will no doubt inculcate more Catholic values to their diverse families, the Church and society at large. “I humbly appreciate the individual families for giving each one of the inductees the enabling ground to be a core Catholic Woman. “This shows the willingness of most families to support women and the girl child in the enjoyment of their fundamental and constitutional rights to association and education which in effect, enhances the value and dignity of women, especially Catholic women.”
Ekwubisi described the occasion as the attainment of major milestone for the inductees, as she enjoined them to appreciate the honour, and work hard to prove their worth to their respective families and society. She commended Very Rev. Fr. Charles Andy Unachukwu, CM, the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. JohnPaul Ezike,CM, Associate Parish Priest and Rev. Fr. Kingsley Agada,CM, for their efforts in adding material and spiritual values to the growth and comfort of the organisation, as well as others who contributed in making the occasion a reality. Mr. Onyeka Ekwulugo (Igirigi Nnewi), Chairman on the occasion, commended the inductees for taking the bold step of joining the CWO, urging them to leverage the platform to enhance their leadership skills and productivity. He said: “I am rest assured that this journey will be filled with opportunities for challenges, learning and growth. You will expand your worldwide view through your service to the church and community. “You will learn to lead and equally do great things. You should never forget at large that whom much is given, much is expected.” Over forty women who excelled in various fields of endeavours were recognised. Couples who have impacted humanity positively and those that have maintained healthy relationship with each other were awarded to serve as encouragement to others. CWO is the umbrella body of all women who have been fully indoctrinated in the Catholic Church. New members are inducted into the organisation at intervals. This induction came four years after the last induction ceremony was held in the parish. The event was attended by dignitaries from far and near, including Lady Catherine Alabi, Acting President, Catholic Women Organisation of Nigeria, Lagos Archdiocese (CWONLA) and Mrs. Bernadine Eloka, CWON Festac Deanery Coordinator.
