Rivers Deputy Governor Urges Women to Lead Nation-Building Efforts

Rivers State Deputy Governor Prof. Ngozi Odu has challenged women to step beyond passive roles and actively engage in shaping their nation. Addressing attendees at the African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) Nigeria's 2026 Annual Parley Conference in Port Harcourt, Odu stressed that women should be viewed as agents of transformation, not merely beneficiaries of empowerment programs.

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The theme, ‘Excellence Wears Heels’, is both inspiring and symbolic. It reminds us that excellence has no gender, but women must be encouraged and supported to occupy spaces where their talents, intelligence, courage and leadership can make meaningful contributions.

Represented by former Permanent Secretary Dr. Josephine Chukuigwe, Odu lauded the AWLA for its dedication to advancing women's and children's rights and welfare. She encouraged members to mentor younger generations, support women-owned businesses, promote education and skills development, and create more opportunities for women in leadership and decision-making roles. The conference's theme, 'Excellence Wears Heels,' was highlighted as a symbol of confidence, resilience, and the determination to overcome barriers.

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The heels represent confidence, resilience, dignity and the determination to rise above barriers. As female lawyers and advocates, you occupy a particularly important position in this struggle.

"Excellence has no gender, but women must be encouraged and supported to occupy spaces where their talents, intelligence, courage and leadership can make meaningful contributions," Odu stated. She emphasized that female lawyers, in particular, hold a crucial position to influence policies, advocate for vulnerable populations, and give a voice to those whose rights are threatened.

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Today, therefore, I encourage every woman here to see herself not merely as a beneficiary of empowerment, but as an agent of transformation.

The Deputy Governor affirmed the Rivers State government's commitment to initiatives that support women, children, and vulnerable groups. She asserted that empowering women is not just a matter of fairness but a strategic investment in stronger families, communities, and economies. Odu concluded by calling for a society where every girl child can dream without limits, women can lead without discrimination, and every child can grow in an environment of dignity and opportunity.

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Empowering women is, therefore, not only a matter of fairness; it is an investment in stronger families, stronger communities and a stronger economy.