Ondo NCWS President Odusola Declares Gender a National Issue, Calls for Stronger Support for Women
…as SWS International President, Amoo, Makes List of Philanthropists’ Awardees
The President of the National Council of Women’s Societies (NCWS), Ondo State Chapter, Bishop Oluseyi Odusola, has described gender concerns as a pressing national matter that must be addressed with seriousness, unity, and a renewed commitment to nation-building.
Odusola made this declaration shortly before 30 eminent Nigerians were shortlisted for the Council’s Philanthropist Award yesterday, Thursday, 11th January 2025, at the International Culture and Event Centre, The Dome, in Akure, Ondo State.
Among the top recipients were the International President of StandUp for Women Society (SWS), Barr. Mrs Abosede Deborah Ijadele-Adetona, and Prof. Ishiaq Adekunle Amoo of the Federal University of Technology (FUTA), Akure.
Welcoming the awardees and other guests to the event marking the organisation’s 12th anniversary, Odusola stressed that gender issues go beyond the usual debate of men versus women. According to her, they touch on identity, societal roles, and the broader well-being of families and communities.
She lamented that women are often the primary victims in crises such as war, violence, and ritual practices.
“Women are always the ones at the receiving end. They are raped, abused, violated, and exploited during conflicts. Children also suffer, with girls frequently being the earliest victims of assault,” she said.
Odusola noted that modern society is witnessing new complexities in gender identity and roles, explaining that while biological sex is constant, the world is now confronted with evolving expressions of gender. She emphasised that such shifts require thoughtful national engagement rather than hostility.
“Gender is not about fighting one another. It is about building the nation. It is a role accepted by society, not merely a matter of being male or female,” she stated.
She also highlighted the broad reach of NCWS, explaining that it is not a mere local women’s group but a national platform with influence across sectors. She acknowledged affiliates including faith-based unions, legal associations, and international gender-focused bodies.
Odusola celebrated the organisation’s expansion into key thematic areas such as entrepreneurship, child and elderly care, support for the physically challenged, and community development. She reminded members that NCWS is a non-political, non-profit body that nonetheless supports government efforts aimed at societal progress.
“We are gender-sensitive for the good of women, children, and the family at large,” she said.
She urged members to maintain dignity, uphold the values of the Council, and recognise the presence of professionals within their ranks—from lawyers and doctors to professors and judges. According to her, constitutional amendments within the Council involve rigorous legal scrutiny by these members, emphasising the organisation’s credibility.
Odusola appealed for financial support, revealing that the organisation had recently acquired a project valued at ₦3.3 million, and encouraged well-meaning individuals to contribute and continue uplifting women, especially those who are depressed, disadvantaged, or vulnerable.
“Whenever you see a woman who is down, please lift her up. Stand by children who are less privileged. Support women, and let women support women,” she urged.
She further stated that NCWS remains a responsible Council anchored on respect for elders, leaders, and established traditions.
“Before becoming a member, you must have met the elders in council. Behave like the national body, and always remain gender-sensitive,” she affirmed.
Special recognition was also given to Chief Mrs Margaret Oladuni, popularly known as Mama SPEB, as part of the activities lined up for the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
Odusola thanked all attendees, reaffirming the Council’s commitment to advocating for women, children, the physically challenged, and the less privileged across all local government areas of Ondo State.
In her brief remarks, Chief Mrs Margaret Oladuni, alias Mama SPEB, said the Council is gender-sensitive for the good of women, children, and the family.
