Cross River Women Demand Inclusion, Equity, Equality as They Celebrate International Women’s Day

…NUJ Chairman Calls for Protection of Women’s Rights

The Cross River State Chapter of the National Council of Women's Societies (NCWS) has called on the government to prioritize inclusiveness, equity, and equality as they commemorate the 2025 International Women’s Day.

The group, led by its State President, Chief Majorie Asuquo, made the demand today Thursday 13th March 2025 during a press conference held at the Ernest Bassey Press Centre, Calabar, where they decried the continued exclusion of women from decision-making processes and urged for greater representation in politics and governance.

Asuquo stated the importance of empowering women and promoting gender equality, stressing that inclusive policies and greater opportunities for women’s participation in politics and governance were essential for societal development.

"Women make up nearly 50% of the world’s population, and we are proud of our numbers. However, despite our size, we remain marginalized in leadership and decision-making spaces. We are demanding equality, not as a privilege but as a necessity for progress," she said.

President further highlighted the group’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness about gender equity through trainings, conventions, and advocacy programs aimed at increasing female representation in leadership and governance.

"We are letting the world—especially Africa—see the importance of women in every sector. The theme of this year’s celebration, ‘Accelerate Action,’ calls for urgent steps to bridge the gender gap. Studies show that achieving true gender equality and development at the current pace could take 135 years. We cannot afford to wait that long. We call on those in authority to take deliberate steps to empower women, fight poverty, and address health challenges affecting us."

Also speaking, Reverend Grace Ekanem, the pioneer President of NCWS Cross River Chapter, called for an end to cultural and social norms that perpetuate gender discrimination. 

She stressed the importance of educating the girl-child as a key strategy in breaking the cycle of inequality.

"If you deny a girl-child education, you have denied a whole generation the opportunity to progress. Educated women are transforming the world—look at Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director-General of the WTO. Women have proven time and again that they are capable. It is time to stop marginalizing us," she said.

She further decried the underrepresentation of women in leadership positions, noting that in many cases, women make up only a small fraction of decision-making bodies.

"In many appointments, out of ten members, only one is a woman. Is that fair? We are demanding inclusiveness. A house without a woman is incomplete. Women are natural managers, and our contributions are vital to the success of any society."

Responding, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Archibong Bassey, urged the government to protect the rights of women while emphasizing the need for women to support each other in their quest for equity. 

She noted the crucial role women play in society, noting that the strides made by Governor Bassey Otu were largely due to the strength and support of the First Lady.

"We all have a role to play in uplifting and protecting the rights of women. Let God continue to keep us united and strong so we can support our husbands and contribute meaningfully to society," Bassey stated.