Michael Freeman, Ambassador of Israel to Nigeria, has underscored the need for collective support towards empowering women to achieve meaningful growth in Nigeria.
Freeman, also the Permanent Representative of Israel to ECOWAS, disclosed this at the International Women’s Day (IWD) ceremony with the theme “Women in Entrepreneurship,” organised by the Israeli Embassy on Tuesday in Abuja.
The envoy reiterated the need to champion gender equality, work tirelessly for peace and security, draw inspiration from the courage and resilience of women, and strive towards a better future for them.
According to him, IWD is a moment to celebrate the progress women have made, reflect on their journeys, and acknowledge their formidable courage and resilience worldwide.
“Israel is a nation where women are pivotal in shaping its strength, culture, and innovation; Israel’s aspirations of diverse and resilient people stand as a beacon of progress on women’s rights and equality.
“Our story is one woven with the determination of women who have not only broken barriers but have also been integral to our national narrative of perseverance and innovation.
“Israeli women’s work in cybersecurity, biotechnology, and environmental science has not only propelled Israel to the forefront of global innovation but also provided solutions that benefit humanity.
“Our political landscape too is enriched by the leadership and vision of Israeli women,” Freeman said.
He quoted the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) report saying only 35 percent of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) students in higher education globally are women.
This, according to the ambassador, is the reason the embassy sought to promote projects centered on STEM education amongst girls and women in Nigeria.
“For the past five years, we have been donating computer classrooms to various educational and charitable institutions across Nigeria.
“We refurbish classrooms and provide connected brand-new computers that will ensure future generations of Nigerians can access the skills needed to build a better future for them and their families.
“I am pleased to announce that our next classroom will be donating to MeCaht, a fabulous organisation that works to eliminate human trafficking but also works to rehabilitate victims.
“The computer classroom will provide young women a gateway to a better future, an opportunity to learn and provide for themselves here in Nigeria,” he added.
The Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John, said the IWD is not just a day of celebration but a powerful reminder of the extraordinary contribution and resilience of women throughout history.
Ade-John said, “It is a day to recognise and honour the indomitable spirit of women who have shaped our world, broken barriers, and paved the way for progress and equality.
“We pay tribute to countless women who have shaped our community, nation, and continent, from visionary leaders and entrepreneurs to hospitality professionals and cultural ambassadors.
“The ministry is dedicated to fostering an environment where women can unleash their full potential and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of the tourism industry and beyond.” (NAN)
