The Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, has urged Nigerian women to overcome fear and actively pursue leadership positions in politics and governance.

Mr Onaiyekan, alongside other Catholic clerics, encouraged women to harness their numerical strength and contribute meaningfully to nation-building efforts.

They made the call on Saturday at the 2026 Catholic Women Organisation, Abuja Archdiocese (CWOAA) Day celebration held at St. Charles Lwanga Catholic Church, Apo, Abuja, where women were encouraged to participate fully.

Delivering his sermon, Mr Onaiyekan described women as indispensable partners in national development and urged them to deploy their God-given talents in advancing both the Church and the State effectively nationwide.

Reflecting on the biblical account of the mother of the sons of Zebedee, the cardinal encouraged women to make legitimate leadership demands, emphasising that God’s design required men and women working together.

“The difference is clear between men and women, but that difference should never be interpreted to mean that women are less.

“Nothing stops women from being in politics. However, political parties must change their style such as scheduling meetings from midnight to 3:00 a.m., which disadvantages mothers,” he said.

Mr Onaiyekan commended organised women’s groups, particularly the Catholic Women Organisation (CWO), describing them as effective platforms for advancing socio-political and economic transformation while promoting greater participation of women in leadership.

He also urged accomplished Catholic women in government, business and the civil service to mentor younger women and create pathways that would enable them to assume leadership responsibilities.

Supporting the Cardinal’s position, the Archdiocesan Chaplain of CWOAA, Rev. Fr. Victor Ogunyemi, urged women to prepare for the 2027 general elections through active voter registration and participation.

“The time when women remained at the backyard or in the kitchen has long gone.

“Women need courage and tenacity. They must go all out to declare their qualifications and seek elective positions without fear or intimidation,” he said.

Earlier, CWOAA president, Dr Mabel Ilukwe, highlighted the organisation’s self-help programmes aimed at empowering women, strengthening families and contributing meaningfully to national development through community-focused initiatives.

Ms Ilukwe unveiled the CWOAA Multipurpose Secretariat project, comprising a 111-room Marian Hostel retreat centre, chapel, event centre, crèche and a 24-hour hospital equipped with labour and surgical facilities.

She added that the complex also housed a skill acquisition centre established to equip unemployed mothers and youths with vocational skills, helping reduce financial pressures on families and communities.

“Nation-building starts right inside our homes, but we are not stopping there. We have doctors, engineers, bankers, and public servants among us, and we are stepping out to build the nation with pride,” Ms Ilukwe said.

The event, hosted by parish priest Rev. Fr. Thomas Edogbanya and parish CWO president Frances Chioma, featured prayers for Nigeria and awards recognising women for dedicated service.

(NAN)