OGSSOAA celebrates International Women’s Day and calls for greater action on gender equality

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By Silvernews

The Owerri Girls’ Secondary School Owerri Alumnae Association (OGSSOAA) has joined the global community to celebrate International Women’s Day 2026 with a strong call for empowerment, justice and concrete action for women and girls.

The event, organized under the theme “Rights, Justice and Action for All Women and Girls”, brought together alumni from across Nigeria and the diaspora to celebrate the achievements of women while addressing the challenges they continue to face in society.

One of the highlights of the celebration was the presence of the Deputy Governor of Imo State, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, who was a special guest of honor and a proud member of the association.

In her speech, Ekomaru highlighted the vital contribution of women to social development and stressed the need to continue promoting gender equality. She recognized the challenges women face, including balancing career and family life, abusive relationships and financial dependence.

The Deputy Governor commended the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, for promoting women participation in governance and providing opportunities to women in his administration. He also praised the state’s First Lady, Barr. Chioma Hope Uzodimma, for her continued encouragement and support for women and girls.

Ekomaru urged women to push boundaries, break barriers and stand firm in their values, while striving to create a more inclusive and prosperous society.

Also present at the event was the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare in Imo State, Hon. Nkechinyere Ugwu, who reiterated government’s commitment to policies that support the well-being and advancement of women and girls.

Two distinguished keynote speakers, the Noble Professor Viola Onwuliri, former Minister of Foreign Affairs and Education, and Senator Betty Apiafi, gave thought-provoking presentations.

Professor Onwuliri highlighted the importance of justice and decisive action in tackling gender inequality.

Drawing on her experiences in public service, she highlighted the need for mentorship, educational support and creating safe environments that allow women and girls to thrive.

She encouraged women to confront discrimination, pursue excellence with discipline and integrity, and use their leadership positions to uplift others.

Senator Apiafi, in her speech, highlighted the need to recognize and protect women’s rights by addressing laws and cultural practices that hinder progress.

He praised the alumni for their commitment to investing in their alma mater and nurturing future generations.

She also highlighted the importance of mentorship, collaboration and self-care, urging women to support each other and embrace the philosophy of “giving to earn” for broader social impact.

During the program, some former students shared inspiring messages of resilience and determination.

Dr Pearl Onukwugha encouraged women to take responsibility and lead change by marshalling inner strength, participating in organizations and cultivating resilience.

She observed that change starts from mindset and urged women to create awareness, educate girls about their rights and train boys to become responsible men.

A member of the Canadian branch, Ms. Chinyere, also shared empowering insights, urging women to discover what works for them, understand their environment, avoid toxic spaces and take charge of their lives.

Some alumni leaders also shared messages about overcoming obstacles.

Owerri (Home) Branch President Olive Ngozi-Amuzuo said overcoming obstacles builds strength, wisdom and confidence, turning challenges into stepping stones to success.

Vicky Nwanebu, Port Harcourt Branch President, stressed that success is achievable when women maintain the right mindset and take purposeful action.

Ogechi Assumpta Obinna, Enugu Chapter President (042), noted that true strength lies in using shared resilience to dismantle barriers and uplift other women.

Dr. Ogechi Okafor, President, Abuja Branch, said with a positive mindset, perseverance and resilience, women can overcome any obstacle.

Lady Lynda Chuma-Osuebi (nee Akagha), Acting President of the Lagos Branch, encouraged women to keep going and never give up.

Mrs. Digna Ibeh, president of the UK branch, urged the women to remain strong, encouraged and steadfast in their faith.

Ms. Chinwe Affam, President of the Canadian Branch, advised the women to remain determined and continue to move forward with resilience and determination.

Pastor Lilian Ajah, president of the Jos branch, encouraged the women to embrace obstacles as experiences and face them with positivity while remaining focused on their goals.

The celebration also showcased unity among OGSS branches across the world, with members from Home (Owerri), Port Harcourt, Umuahia, Enugu, Jos, Lagos, Abuja, Canada, UK and USA sharing colorful group photographs symbolizing dignity, ambition, hope and solidarity.

In her concluding speech, the National President of the association, Dr. Chioma Chidinma

George-Anokwuru, said the gathering reaffirmed the alumni’s collective commitment to inspiring and empowering women across generations.

She noted that through unity, mentorship and purposeful action, women can continue to unleash their potential and shape a better future for society.