Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
Women under the aegis of Soludo Women’s Movement (SWM) have taken the forthcoming November 8 governorship election in Anambra State into God’s hands.
During a Summit held at Dora Akunyili Women Development Centre in Awka, Saturday, the women prayed against forces that could derail progress of the state and smooth conduct of the forthcoming election.
Among their other prayer points were the total elimination of violence, crime, kidnapping, killings and vices dangerous to the peace and development of the state.
The Summit themed: “Enhancing Grassroots Governance and Initiatives Through APGA,” attracted women numbering over one thousand drawn from the 21 local government areas of the state.
During his address, State Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Chief Ifeatu Obi-Okoye, hailed the women for their steadfast love, commitment and support of the Soludo-led APGA government, noting that their prayers have been crucial to the success of the party at all levels.
Speaking on the event theme, Chief Obi-Okoye emphasised the importance of party unity and urged women to be good ambassadors of the party, particularly at the grassroots level.
He explained that the party’s leadership style is focused on bottom-to-top development, where decisions are made at the grassroots level to drive development.
The Chairman encouraged women to support the party’s initiatives and demand leadership roles. He explained that there is no segregation in APGA, stressing that women must begin to take their rightful place in governance for their voices to be heard.
Delivering an exposition of Soludo’s milestone achievements, in Anambra, Mayor of Idemmili South LGA, Amaka Obi, said Soludo is Anambra’s prayer answered, noting that the governor has delivered sterling performance since elected to pilot the affairs of the state.
On the governor’s achievements, she said Soludo has provided jobs for youths, constructed roads, provided free education and free child delivery, among others to cement his name in the hearts of Anambra people.
Traditional Ruler of Umueri, His Royal Majesty, Igwe Sir Benneth Emeka, said Anambra has witnessed significant positive change, stressing that most of Governor Soludo’s policies have been particularly beneficial to the women of the state.
Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Chiamaka Nnake, explained that Soludo’s policies are designed to support the poor and vulnerable. She noted that the administration’s efforts are just the beginning, with more initiatives in store for the people of the state.
Nnake encouraged women to obtain their voter’s cards and participate in the electoral process, stressing that the movement for positive change will continue beyond the current administration.
Dr. Victor Agogbua, a lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, during his lecture on Stress Management cautioned women against adopting unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and unhealthy lifestyles, which he said can exacerbate stress. Instead, he advised them to focus on controlling what they can and letting go of what they cannot.
To combat stress, he recommended adopting healthy habits, including regular sleep, exercise, balanced eating, and adequate rest.
Earlier, Lady Sylvia Atogu, Convener and National Coordinator of Soludo Women Movement (SWM), described the group as a movement advocating for good governance. She noted that the gathering marked the first convergence of SWM in the state.
