Niger Gov’t appoints over 100 Women, as NLC push gender drive at State conference

By: TUNDE BOLAJI MINNA.

Niger state governor, Mohammed Umar Bago has declared that Women are the bedrock of every society, and his administration will continue to give them the space to lead and thrive.

In the same vein the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, has called for a united front in protecting the rights of working people and strengthening the capacity of women to contribute meaningfully to trade unions and national development without hindrance.

The labour boss who was represented by Mrs. Ngozi Ezike, made the call during the 6th State Delegates Conference of the NLC Niger State Council Women’s Committee.

He noted that Congress has continued to consolidate gains in gender mainstreaming by supporting women through capacity building and leadership opportunities.

According to him, women in the labour movement have lived up to expectations by making the most of these opportunities and delivering tangible results.

He therefore urged the NLC leadership at all levels to provide women with maximum support in carrying out their responsibilities.

Declaring the conference open, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, represented by Engineer Aminu Yusuf, Special Adviser to the Governor on Labour Matters, reaffirmed his commitment to empowering women.

He revealed that within his first three months in office, over 100 women were appointed to various political positions in fulfillment of his campaign promises.

Describing women as the bedrock of every society, the governor encouraged the newly elected NLC Women’s Committee officials to build on the achievements of their predecessors.

He also commended the cordial relationship between the state government and the labour movement, stressing his passion for both women’s empowerment and workers’ welfare.

The Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, represented by Chairman of the House Committee on Labour, Murtala Adamu Badaru, reiterated the legislature’s commitment to supporting women, particularly the vulnerable.

He reminded the new officials that their election was an opportunity to serve, not a reward given on merit alone, and urged them to prove themselves through performance.

In his remarks, Chairman of the NLC Niger State Council, Comrade Idris Lafene, described Niger State as one of the most peaceful and labour-friendly states in Nigeria.

He congratulated the women for their dedication to making the conference a success, explaining that Women’s Committee elections in the state are usually based on selection.

He charged the new officials to excel through teamwork and to seek clarification whenever necessary.

In her acceptance speech, the newly elected Chairperson, Comrade Amamatu Dada, expressed gratitude to members for their trust in her leadership.

She pledged to carry everyone along, amplify the voices of women, and address the plight of the vulnerable.

She promised to work for empowerment, unity, and the elimination of gender inequality, while fostering courage and solidarity within the committee.

Other elected officials include Comrade Kulu Garba (Vice Chairperson), Comrade Aisha Garba Paiko (Secretary), Comrade Ruth Yuhana (Assistant Secretary), and Comrades Rebecca Sule and Mary Isah as Ex-Officio members.

The event featured the administration of the oath of office to the newly inaugurated members by Comrade Ngozi Ezike, who served as National Executive and Returning Officer.

The ceremony also showcased cultural displays by Gwape International.