The Executive Chairman of Aniocha South Local Government Council, Hon. Pastor Jude Chukwunwike , has commended the women of the council area for their resilience, creativity, and leadership capacity, noting that they possess the entrepreneurial drive and vision required to uplift their families and communities.
Speaking in commemoration of International Women’s Day 2026, the Chairman praised the invaluable contributions of women across the local government, stressing that from Ubulu-Uku to Ogwashi-Uku and Nsukwa, women have continued to distinguish themselves in commerce, education, public service, and community development, bringing honour and recognition to the various clans within Aniocha South.
In a statement released to mark the celebration, through his special Adviser on Media, publicity and strategic communication, Oyem Jonathan, Pastor Chukwunwike said:
“To the esteemed women of Aniocha South, as we celebrate you on this year’s International Women’s Day, I am honoured to express my deepest appreciation and admiration for the remarkable role you play in the growth and progress of our society.
“Today and always, we acknowledge and celebrate your tireless efforts, resilience, and determination in shaping our homes, communities, and the future of our people.”
Reflecting on the 2026 International Women’s Day theme, “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.”, the Chairman described it as a timely call for collective action to strengthen opportunities for women and ensure that every woman and girl is given the platform to reach her full potential.
According to him, the theme reinforces the urgent need to eliminate barriers that hinder women’s advancement and to promote inclusive policies that guarantee equal opportunities in education, leadership, and economic participation.
“We acknowledge the significant contributions women make to our communities, from driving economic growth to leading social transformation. At the same time, we remain mindful of the challenges that still exist, including gender-based violence, economic inequality, and the underrepresentation of women in leadership and decision-making positions,” he stated.
Pastor Chukwunwike reaffirmed his administration’s three-pronged approach toward creating a supportive and inclusive environment where women can thrive and contribute more meaningfully to development. The approach includes:
Promoting gender equality through policies and initiatives that address systemic inequalities affecting women and girls.
Encouraging women’s leadership by creating opportunities for women to assume leadership roles and actively participate in governance and decision-making processes.
Strengthening women’s economic empowerment through initiatives that support entrepreneurship, employment opportunities, and financial inclusion.
The Chairman further noted that the progress and prosperity of any society depend largely on how well it recognizes and harnesses the potential of its women.
“Today and every day, we celebrate the strength, courage, and resilience of women in our community. We honour your achievements and reaffirm our commitment to building a society where every woman and girl can live with dignity, realize her dreams, and contribute fully to the development of our local government and nation,” he added.
Pastor Chukwunwike therefore called on stakeholders, community leaders, and development partners to join hands in promoting policies and programmes that advance the rights, welfare, and empowerment of women across Aniocha South.