Honourable Khadijat Omotayo, Personal Assistant to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on Constituency Matters, made a resounding appeal to all Nigerians to become fervent advocates for the rights of women and girls during her impactful address at the Societal Concerns Organization’s Symposium. The event, themed “Breaking The Silence: Understanding And Preventing Femicide In Our Community,” was held on December 17, 2024, at the prestigious Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry International Conference Centre in Alausa, Ikeja.
Amidst a gathering of distinguished speakers and panelists, Honourable Omotayo delivered the most memorable session, skillfully addressing the pressing issue of violence against women and girls. She underscored the necessity for a cultural shift in Nigeria, advocating for respect and equity towards women and girls’ rights, while emphasizing that each individual has the responsibility to be a voice for the oppressed.
“I stand before you today to address a critical issue that impacts us all: violence against women and girls. As the Personal Assistant to the President on Constituency Affairs, I am dedicated to amplifying the voices of our constituents and working towards a safer, more just world for everyone,” Hon. Omotayo asserted. She called for immediate and collaborative action within local communities to address concerns related to gender-based violence.
“Drastic approach is essential in ending violence against women and girls. We must engage Local Communities, listen to their concerns, and work together to proffer effective solutions. This includes supporting women organizations, providing free education and job training, to promote economic empowerment.”
Her insights extended to the importance of supporting women’s organizations, promoting education and job training, and fostering economic empowerment as vital components in the fight against violence. “By addressing the root causes of this issue and providing necessary support services for survivors, we can work towards meaningful change,” she added.
She stressed that when we come together to condemn violence against women and girls, we must hold preparations accountable, and work towards creating a culture of respect and equity for all women and girls.
“In conclusion, I urge you all, let’s join hands to work together to fight violence against women and girls. Let us work together to create a better future, where every girl and woman can live without fear of violence. Where we are today, I want us all to be advocates for all girl children. I want us all to rise up on our feet and repeat after me. I want us to be the voice of girls, so that today will be a remarkable day. So that today will be a day that every girl child will remember and thank the organizers.”
Honourable Omotayo’s impassioned plea culminated in a call to action, encouraging attendees to unite in their efforts against violence. “Let us join hands to create a future where every girl and woman can live without fear,” she urged, igniting a sense of solidarity within the audience. Together, they resounded a collective declaration, affirming their commitment to be voices for women and girls and combat violence in all forms:
“I will be a voice for the women and girls. I will fight for my rights when it is necessary. No violence will overcome me. The fear in me has disappeared. I will speak out now, so that I won’t become depressed, because Depression kills.”
Following her inspiring presentation, Honourable Omotayo was honored with the prestigious Community Service Distinguished Award, presented by Dr. Olayinka Alausa, Founder of the Omo Alausa Foundation, in recognition of her unwavering dedication to humanitarian service.
In her acceptance speech, she expressed profound gratitude and complemented the beautiful design of the framed awards before going on to dedicate the award to President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose leadership has enabled her endeavors.
“I dedicate this Award to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR.”
The room erupted in cheers as her speech was interrupted by the sudden outburst of the president’s party mandate song from one of the party loyalists amongst the guests, and which instantly spread like wild fire around the hall as attendees passionately chanted the President’s party mandate song in a demonstration of loyalty and support.
“On you mandate we shall stand, On your mandate we shall stand,
On your mandate (Bola),On your Mandate (Bola)
On your mandate we shall stand.”
Hon Omotayo, whom had raised her award for the duration of the chanting, announced that the initiator of the mandate song chant just won himself a special prize in appreciation of his dedication and party loyalty. She then went ahead to show her gratitude to the president for giving her the opportunity to make a difference and become a voice for the voiceless.
“If not for the fact that the president deemed me fit to be appointed as one of his aides, I wouldn’t be recognized here today. That’s why I am dedicating this to him. We have one hundred and twenty four aides and ninety-five percent of them are youths. Please, let’s all clap for the President. Thank you very Much, God bless you all.”
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During a post-award interview, Honourable Omotayo praised President Tinubu’s inclusive approach, stating, “He is committed to addressing the issues facing all Nigerians, without consideration of gender. His dedication extends beyond women’s rights, as he works tirelessly to restore hope for every citizen.”
She said:
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a man for all who doesn’t consider gender in making his decisions which address issues facing the country in its entirety. She went further by saying that the president is committed to working tirelessly towards restoring hope to all Nigerians, and not just the womenfolk only.
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Honourable Khadijat Omotayo’s resonant call for advocacy serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all Nigerians to participate in the fight for gender equality and the protection of women and girls’ rights.
ALFRED ABIODUN
Publisher/Editor, DASCENARIO
DL: 09032240052, WHATSAPP CHATS & CALL ONLY(08178770098
