Anyanwu-Akeredolu Emphasizes True Essence Of August Meetings In Igboland
The annual August Meeting in Igboland has been characterized as a forum for women to exchange ideas, conceive projects, mobilize resources, resolve conflicts, and strengthen rural communities.
Dr. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, former First Lady of Ondo State, made this observation on Friday during the inaugural August Meeting of the Catholic Women Organization (CWO) at the Immaculate Conception Parish in Amakohia Uratta, located within the Owerri North Local Government Area of Imo State.
Dr. Anyanwu-Akeredolu, who is the Labour Party’s candidate for the House of Representatives election in the Owerri Federal Constituency, further noted that when Igbo women unite behind a commendable cause, significant transformations frequently ensue.
Addressing the theme of the meeting, “Strengthening Our Foundation for a Greater Tomorrow,” Dr. Anyanwu-Akeredolu acknowledged the various challenges confronting society, including unemployment, substance abuse, moral decay, and escalating poverty.
She articulated that women serve as the foundation of society, emphasizing their role in nurturing life, upholding values, shaping the character of their children, and constructing their homes.
According to her, the strength of women directly correlates with the strength of society.
Dr. Anyanwu-Akeredolu, who holds the distinguished traditional titles of Ada Owere 1 and Ada Emeabiam 2, urged Igbo women, as they return to their villages for the August meetings, to meet the expectations placed upon them.
She identified faith in God, strong family structures, healthy routines, the pursuit of education and skills, and the demonstration of compassion and service as essential pillars for building a robust society.
She advocated for assistance to widows, the elderly, and vulnerable members of society, asserting that aspirations for public office should focus on selfless service rather than personal accolades.
Dr. Anyanwu-Akeredolu highlighted her initiatives, including BEMORE, BRECAN (Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria), the Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu Foundation, and Nigeria Widows Alert, which aim to enhance the lives of women, children, and vulnerable populations.
She concluded by stating that her commitment to improving living conditions motivates her candidacy to represent the people of Owerri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives beginning in 2027.
Earlier, Mrs. Onyinyechi Iwuagwu, President of the Catholic Women Organization (CWO) at Immaculate Conception Parish Amakohia, commended Dr. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu for her remarkable transformation of personal triumph over breast cancer into a national initiative through the Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN).
This endeavor, she said, has instilled hope in thousands of women and families, demonstrating that breast cancer is conquerable.
Mrs. Iwuagwu also praised the special guest of honor for her efforts in empowering widows within the CWO, emphasizing that her actions reflect a profound compassion and genuine commitment to humanitarian service.
Furthermore, the President appealed to the former First Lady for assistance in completing the CWO Secretariat project, which has progressed to the decking stage.
Highlights of the event included a health talk, the presentation of a framed image of ‘Mother Mary’ to Dr. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, and her commitment to mobilizing funds for the completion of the CWO Secretariat project..
