As the whole world commemorates this year’s International Women’s Day, Chairman of Bonny Local Government Area of Rivers State, Dame Anengi Claude Wilcox has charged women to mainstream excellence in their various endeavours.

Dame Claude-Wilcox gave this charge on Saturday, March 9, 2024 during a special event to mark the 2024 International Women’s Day celebration at Government School Field, Bonny, Rivers State.

Addressing hundreds of women who turned out for the event, the Bonny LGA Chairman urged women to always stand prepared while going about their daily endeavours, stressing the need for them to always be intentional and reflect excellence in whatever they do at all times.

She stated that this was a surefire way of utilizing all opportunities that come their way to in order to stand out, praising the women for being central to family, social and global sustenance, adding that it was time for them to take their place in destiny without waiting to be included.

Earlier in her welcome remark, Coordinator of the Family Support Programme (FSP) in Bonny LGA, Sima Halliday, who is also the Convener of the event, said the celebration was intended to highlight the uniqueness of women.

She stressed that availing women the right opportunities will inspire them to be better, expressing gratitude to the Bonny LGA boss for ensuring the actualisation of the annual event.  

Two resource persons, Adata Bristol and Jacqueline Allison rendered pep talks on “Preparedness for Women” and a health talk, respectively.

Mrs. Bristol emphasized the need for preparedness at all times, urging women to be supportive of one another, desist from feelings of intimidation, always look good and make God their cornerstone, admonishing against the syndrome of ganging up to pull down themselves.

On her part, Mrs. Allison enjoined the women to prioritize their health by going for regular check-ups, eating well, and exercising always, stressing the need for them to go easy on themselves in the face of myriad challenges life presents.

Highpoint of the event were free medical screening by paramedics, goodwill messages and cultural presentations, and a raffle draw that saw many women go home with a variety of household items including a chest freezer.