China, Nigeria collaborate to empower women, celebrate achievements on IWD
The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, on Friday, marked International Women’s Day in Abuja with a focus on empowerment and equality, celebrating the contributions of women globally.
The event was themed “Her Story and Future,” aligning with this year’s United Nations IWD theme, “For All Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, Empowerment,” which also commemorates the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.
Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Amb. Yu Dunhai, reflected on the progress women have made over the past three decades in fields such as politics, economics, technology, and culture.
Dunhai noted that gender is no longer a barrier to human exploration and that when women have equal access to education and resources, they can shape history.
“Over the past 30 years, we have witnessed remarkable achievements by women in political, economic, technological, and cultural fields across the world, as they have written a glorious chapter in Herstory.
“Gender has never been a barrier for human exploration. Civilisation, science and technology could always break down prejudices. When women enjoy equal education and fair resource access, they would be able to make history,” he noted.
The ambassador also referenced Chinese President Xi Jinping’s assertion that women are central to the progress of civilisation, and that gender equality is a fundamental policy in China.
Since the establishment of the People’s Republic of China, the Chinese government has placed a strong focus on women’s rights, building a comprehensive legal framework that includes over 100 laws and regulations designed to protect women.
As a result, the average life expectancy for Chinese women has reached nearly 81 years, and women now make up 45 percent of the workforce, the envoy explained.
Dunhai noted, “China has established a comprehensive legal system to protect women’s rights, comprising over 100 laws and regulations.
“The average life expectancy of Chinese women has reached nearly 81 years, and the gender gap in education has been essentially eliminated.
“Women account for nearly 45 percent of the total workforce, and in the internet sector, female entrepreneurs outnumber their male counterparts, making up 55 percent of the total.”
The ambassador further highlighted China’s ongoing political events, particularly the “Two Sessions” in Beijing, where women actively contribute as representatives and play key roles in national development.
He underscored that the achievements of women in China are a testament to the nation’s unique human rights practices and a significant contribution to global equality and peace.
Dunhai also noted that China’s cooperation with Nigeria has fostered improvements for Nigerian women, including better access to medical resources, agricultural training, and entrepreneurial opportunities.
He commended the growing partnership between the two nations and expressed optimism that more Nigerian women would benefit from the high-quality cooperation under the “Belt and Road” initiative.
The envoy added, “Over the years, practical cooperation between China and Nigeria has deepened across various fields, providing many Nigerian women with better medical resources, more agricultural skills, and increased business and entrepreneurial opportunities.”
Acting Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Oraeluno Raphael, stressed that women are the foundation of life, both biologically and spiritually, likening their importance to that of God, who is the source of divine life.
He said, “We celebrate women for being the bearer of biological life, just like God is the bearer of divine life.”
Raphael praised women’s resilience, noting their crucial contributions across various fields, including agriculture, science, technology, education, and business, while also carrying the weight of the world’s problems on their shoulders.
The Acting Perm. Sec. also expressed admiration for women in positions of authority, believing that they bring peace, decorum, and progress.
He said, “Whenever a woman is in a position of authority, you will see peace. You will see decorum. You will see things moving.”
Raphael believes that this is why Nigeria is “clamouring for the first female president. So that this country can experience tremendous development.”
He highlighted the ministry’s efforts to promote women in various artistic and cultural sectors, such as arts, crafts, photography, film production, and culinary arts.
The Permanent Secretary of the Social Development Secretariat of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, Olubunmi Olowookere, praised the achievements of women and acknowledged the theme of the celebration, ‘Her Story, Her Future.’
Olowookere stated that women’s stories are a testament to resilience, courage, and the pursuit of dreams, noting that women have consistently broken barriers and shaped societies.
She emphasised the importance of continuing to foster a future where women can thrive, lead, and contribute to all spheres, from science and business to arts and leadership.
Olowookere encouraged all women present to recognize their value and the importance of their stories. She also acknowledged the support of men who advocate for gender equality, describing them as key allies in advancing the cause.
She remarked, “Today, we come together not only to celebrate the achievements of women but to recognise the power of their stories in shaping the future as encapsulated in the theme for today’s event.
“The theme, ‘Her Story, Her Future,’ reminds us that every woman’s journey is a testament to resilience, courage, and the pursuit of dreams. From history to the present, women have broken barriers, challenged norms, and paved the way for future generations.
“Their voices, struggles, and triumphs have transformed societies, enriched cultures, and inspired progress. As we honour the past, we must also commit to a future where every woman has the opportunity to rise, lead, and thrive.”
