By Karen James
In a heartfelt gesture of solidarity and support, the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) paid a condolence visit to the leadership of the National Council of Women Societies (NCWS) following the untimely demise of the Council’s President, Hajiya Lami Adamu Lau. The visit was a moving tribute to a woman of immense strength and unwavering advocacy for women’s rights.
Hajiya Lau, who assumed the presidency of NCWS in April 2022, tragically passed away on Tuesday, 4th June, 2024, while on official duties in Kebbi State. She was laid to rest on Wednesday, 5th June, 2024, in her home state of Taraba. Her sudden departure left a void in the hearts of her colleagues and a profound loss for the nation.
The delegation from NAWOJ included esteemed members such as Mrs. Bassey Ikpang, Chairperson of the FCT Chapter, Mrs. Rebecca Ukpevo, Vice Chairperson, and two former Chairpersons, Comrade Joy Idam and Annah Daniel. The delegation was warmly received at the NCWS National Secretariat in Abuja by the Council’s Second Vice President, Geraldine Etuk, and other members of the executive.
NAWOJ National President, Hajiya Aisha Ibrahim, expressed deep shock at the news of Hajiya Lau’s passing and conveyed the Association’s acceptance of this tragedy as the will of God. She urged the Council’s leadership and all members to endure this loss with resilience and strength.
Representing Hajiya Ibrahim, the NAWOJ Vice President, Zone D (North Central), Mrs. Chizoba Ogbeche, praised the outstanding qualities of Hajiya Lau, highlighting her unwavering commitment to empowering Nigerian women and securing their rightful place in government. Despite the immense grief, Mrs. Ogbeche emphasized that Hajiya Lau’s legacy must be carried forward and surpassed, as a testament to her remarkable contributions.
“Hajiya Lami lived an exemplary life as a strong advocate of women empowerment and protector of the rights of women and girls. NAWOJ will always remember her as a hero and champion. She has successfully run her race and handed the baton to those of us she left behind. So, we must honor her memory by ensuring that the legacy she has built is sustained and even surpassed. Also, her death should be a reminder that we would only be remembered by what we are able to do while we are here and this should motivate us to be committed and not relent in the fight for the protection of the rights of women and girls,” Mrs. Ogbeche stated.
As the delegation offered their prayers for the peaceful repose of Hajiya Lau’s soul, they also called for unity among the Council’s executive to fill the void created by her demise. Mrs. Geraldine Etuk, the 1st Vice President of NCWS, expressed her gratitude to NAWOJ for their visit, echoing the sentiments shared about Hajiya Lau’s remarkable qualities. She emphasized the importance of commemorating her life through collective prayer, inviting NAWOJ and other women groups, as well as well-meaning individuals, to join in the seventh day prayer at the Council’s National Secretariat in Abuja.
The visit from NAWOJ was a poignant reminder of the collective strength and support that women in Nigeria possess. It underscored the unwavering commitment to fighting for gender equality, championed by the late Hajiya Lami Adamu Lau. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations of women, encouraging them to embrace their inner strength and ensure the protection of women and girls’ rights.
