Gist set to honour N/Delta women
By Chimex Ndubuisi
In order to promote, build knowledge and appreciate the good and dynamic qualities of the women as well as recognizing new leaders in various communities in Nigeria whose works and personally example have contributed to positive social change, the Gist Magazine would in July honour Niger Delta women.
In an interview with newsmen in Port Harcourt, the Publisher of Gist Magazine, Mrs. Sotonye Fulton said it would not only honour the living but would also give post-humous award to the dead, saying that the Gist Outstanding Women Award (GOWA) is an annual package that would give deserving attention to the cause of women, highlight their noble and subtle roles while equally empowering others.
She said the award is especially dedicated to Niger Delta women in a way of putting the issue of Niger Delta into national and international focus away from the recurrent theme of militancy, criminality and violent struggle, presenting to the world the greatness of Niger Deltans, especially the women folks as well as showcasing the socio-cultural values of the Niger Delta through the award.
The publisher disclosed that the award would also be used to celebrate other people who are not Niger Deltans but are basic contributors to the development of the Niger Delta.
“GOWA is not the usual fare that only gathers people in the hall and dispenses mere funfair and accolades but to design to deal with real issues of development by proffering solutions to women's problems”, she said.
According to her, the regional focus was to contribute to the diversification of the notion of leadership beyond national political leadership or public office holders and bring to prominence new idea for social change in an area full of potential in terms of endowments and the sheer energy and vitality of its people.
She said although some categories of people must be voted for to merit the awards, some distinguished legends and highly respected and revered persons are however to be given special awards in recognition of their contribution to women emancipation and empowerment especially from within the Niger Delta area.
Mrs. Fulton opined that the Federal Government's policy of reserving a percentage of political appointments for women was highly commendable, pointing out that the Nigerian women are a virtuous, compassionate, dedicated and sincere human being who can be counted on at any time.
