National president of the National Council of Women Societies (NCWS), Princess Edna Azura has expressed appreciation to its partners for their positive collaboration for the upliftment and empowerment of Nigerian women and youths.
Azura made the assertion during the handing over of food items donated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints held at NCWS headquarters in Abuja on Thursday.
Azura emphasised quality and inclusive education for all ages, which she said is the bedrock of all progress, as part of the focus of her administration to boost literacy, provide scholarships, and ensure that every girl-child has access to the education she deserves.
According to her, “This commitment extends to providing adult literacy training for older women who missed the opportunity for formal education, giving them a second chance to unlock their potential.”
On maternal health and protection of children 0 to five tears, she said the council believed that the health and well-being of women and children are the future of the nation, adding that a key pillar of its plan was to invest in improved maternal health services and to protect the children from 0 to five years through nutrition programmes and early childhood care.
She also listed skills acquisition for all, especially people with disabilities, as part of the focus of her administration.
‘We believe that empowerment must leave no one behind. A key pillar to our vision is to create accessible skills acquisition programs, not just for women and youth, but with a special focus on people living with disabilities, ensuring they have the tools for economic independence and societal contribution.
‘Together, we can create the lasting change that uplifts the most marginalised among us and builds a truly self-reliant nation,” she said.
She described the donation by the church as more than a gift, but a lifeline would bring immediate relief to numerous women and their families.
“This generous donation of foodstuffs and non-food items from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is more than just a gift; it’s a lifeline that will bring immediate relief and hope to countless women and their families across five of our states: Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Enugu, Plateau, and Sokoto.
“Thank you for seeing the need and for acting so decisively. This kind gesture is a beacon of hope in these challenging times, offering direct support to the millions facing food insecurity across our nation, particularly women and children in vulnerable communities,” she added.
Azura further praised the church for its humanitarian gestures in many African countries, which she said “resonates with the very core of our mission. As we embrace these donations today, we do so with hearts full of appreciation for your ongoing efforts to uplift communities, embodying our shared values of compassion, service, and human upliftment everywhere you serve,” calling for tronger partnership with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for sustainable impact on the lives of vulnerable communities.