WOWICAN Holds 14th Northeast Annual Convention in Jalingo
From Hilary John
The Women’s Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (WOWICAN), Northeast zone, has held its 14th Annual Convention at the Deeper Life Campground in Jalingo, Taraba State.
The convention attracted Christian women from the six states of the Northeast region.
Speaking with journalists at the event, the Chairperson of WOWICAN Northeast, Ambassador Rebecca J. Anthony, said the theme of the convention was “Building Cultural Diversity Among Us Through Christ Jesus.”
Ambassador Rebecca J. Anthony
She explained that although Christians come from diverse cultural backgrounds, unity in Christ makes peaceful coexistence possible.
According to her, cultural diversity should be embraced as a strength that promotes growth and collective progress rather than a barrier.
Ambassador Anthony said the convention also focused on educating Christian women on political participation.
She noted that many Christians shy away from politics because it is often perceived as a “dirty game,” stressing that such perceptions discourage women from active involvement in governance.
She encouraged Christian women to participate fully in the political process by voting and offering themselves for elective positions.
According to her, women frequently face suppression or exclusion when they seek political office, which is why WOWICAN is advocating for special legislative seats for women.
The WOWICAN Chairperson disclosed that women from the Northeast and the 19 Northern states plan to visit the Wife of the President to advocate for the approval of special seats for women.
She urged women who had previously contested elections without success not to give up but to remain persistent.
Ambassador Anthony emphasized that staying away from politics allows others to make decisions that directly or indirectly affect women’s lives.
She described political awareness and participation as essential tools for empowerment and development.
She also called on participants to cascade the lessons learned at the convention to their respective state and local WOWICAN chapters to ensure the message reaches women at the grassroots.
Ambassador Anthony expressed appreciation to the Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, for his financial and moral support, noting that the success of the convention would not have been possible without it.
She assured the governor of the continued support of WOWICAN women, describing him as the patron of WOWICAN in the Northeast.
