CELEBRATION: NCWS Marks International Women’s Day in Taraba, Seeks Stronger Protection and Empowerment for Women.

By Jako Keke, March 9, 2026.

The Taraba State chapter of the (NCWS) has joined the rest of the world to commemorate the 2026 with a renewed call for stronger protection, empowerment and greater inclusion of women in leadership and decision-making processes.

The colourful event brought together women leaders, civil society groups, faith-based organizations and development advocates who reflected on the progress made in advancing the rights of women while also highlighting the challenges that still confront women and girls in society.

In her welcome address, the Taraba State President of NCWS, Mrs. Mercy Daniel Garba, noted that the global celebration of International Women’s Day has over the years contributed significantly to improving the status and welfare of women across the world. She explained that the theme of the celebration underscores the need to protect women and girls from discrimination, abuse and harmful traditional practices that continue to hinder their growth and participation in society.

Mrs. Garba emphasized that beyond protection, deliberate efforts must be made to empower women economically and politically. She stressed that women should be encouraged to thrive in business, actively participate in politics and contribute meaningfully to governance and decision-making at all levels, noting that societies that invest in women and girls often experience greater social and economic development.

Delivering a goodwill message, Mrs. Doris Obed, a member of the NCWS Board of Trustees, urged women to cultivate a culture of mutual support and solidarity. She said when one woman is empowered with knowledge, skills and opportunities, she in turn becomes a source of strength to others, thereby creating a ripple effect that benefits families, communities and the nation at large. She also highlighted the critical role of girl-child education in national development, stressing that educating girls remains one of the most effective ways to break the cycle of poverty and inequality.

Also speaking, Ambassador Rebecca J. Anthony, Chairperson of the Women Wing, North-East Zone of the (CAN), called on women to play more active roles in the electoral process. She urged women across Taraba State to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and participate actively in elections, cautioning them against selling their votes or allowing their choices to be influenced by temporary incentives such as money or food items.

According to her, women possess the numerical strength capable of influencing electoral outcomes if they are properly mobilized. She assured that women groups and organizations would intensify voter education campaigns by reaching out to communities across the state to encourage women to register, obtain their PVCs and participate fully in the democratic process.

The event also featured a series of presentations on key issues affecting women, including gender-based violence, the importance of speaking out against abuse, and strategies for promoting girl-child education. Other sessions focused on the critical role of mothers in ensuring school enrollment, retention and completion for children, as well as health awareness campaigns on breast and cervical cancer, highlighting their causes, symptoms, prevention and available management options.

Participants at the gathering expressed optimism that sustained advocacy, education and collaboration among stakeholders would continue to advance the rights, welfare and opportunities of women and girls in Taraba State and beyond.