VIDEO TUC FCT Women Commission urges Women to proactively pursue leadership roles

Mrs. Sandra Ogbonna, Chairperson of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) FCT Women Commission, has urged women to actively pursue leadership roles through deliberate and proactive actions rather than waiting for opportunities.

She emphasized the importance of empowerment and inclusion in leadership, advocating for women to take bold steps to claim their positions in decision-making spaces.

Ogbonna made this call at the International Women’s Day 2025 celebration with the theme “Accelerate Action Towards Occupying Positions of Authority” in Abuja on Saturday.

She stated that leadership positions must be actively pursued, as they are not freely given.

Ogbonna noted the persistent gender gap in leadership, noting that in spite women’s contributions, decision-making spaces remain dominated by men.

She called on women to equip themselves with knowledge, support one another, challenge barriers, and advocate for policy reforms that promote inclusivity.

“We must break self-imposed limitations and take our rightful place in leadership,” she said, encouraging women to engage in governance and politics.

She also urged members of the TUC Women’s Commission to participate actively in discussions and decision-making processes.

The Secretary of the Commission, Uche Ukachukwu, underscored the importance of resilience and leadership in advancing women’s empowerment.

Ukachukwu stressed that women’s achievements must never be overlooked.

“The knowledge we gain in spaces like this is invaluable, you may not realise its significance now, but one day, you will,” she said.

“Resilience is key to overcoming obstacles and making a lasting impact,” she added.

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT council, Comrade Grace Ike, called on women to be intentional in supporting one another, stressing that mere lip service will not drive progress in gender parity.

Comrade Grace Ike as the guest speaker said

Women are critical stakeholders in every community, building homes, nurturing children, and breaking barriers in politics, academia, and governance yet systemic obstacles continue to hinder their upward mobility.

Ike while stressing the need to accelerate action said Inclusivity is not just a buzzword; it is a principle that must guide our actions.

She said “ Today, we celebrate the resilience, achievements, and contributions of women across all sectors while recognizing the urgent need to break barriers and create opportunities for women to occupy positions of authority”

She cited steps to accelerate action to include Steps to Accelerate Action to include lobbying for gender-sensitive laws that prioritize inclusivity and equality, Empowering Women Through Mentorship, Challenging Biases and encouraging Boldness.

She also cited Confidence as key to breaking through glass ceilings.

According to her “ By lifting each other up, we create a ripple effect that empowers more women to take leadership roles”

“Together, we can accelerate progress by amplifying women’s voices, defying limitations, and ensuring leadership knows no gender”

“Let us commit today to creating a future where every woman has the opportunity to lead, inspire, and thrive”

“The time for action is now—because gender equality cannot wait another century”

The FCT Chairman of the TUC Commission, Comrade Paul Audu, called for urgent action to dismantle barriers preventing women from occupying leadership positions.

He praised the resilience and dedication of women across all sectors, emphasising their role in national development.

Audu acknowledged that in spite some progress, leadership spaces remain disproportionately occupied by men.

“Talent is not gendered! Competence knows no chromosomes! Yet, systemic barriers continue to hold back the incredible potential of our women,” he stated.

He reaffirmed the trade union movement’s commitment to equality, stressing that empowering women strengthens workplaces, policies, and society as a whole.