RATTAWU women empowerment takes a leap as President Comrade Prince Emeka Kalu pledges to create a Women’s Wing, promoting leadership, inclusion, and national progress.
The National President of the Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU), Comrade Prince Emeka Kalu, popularly known as “Magic Fingers”, has reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the role of women within the union.
In a move aimed at strengthening female participation and leadership, he announced the establishment of a Women’s Wing in RATTAWU, a dedicated platform to nurture, support, and develop women in the union to achieve their full potential.
President Kalu made the declaration during the South-South Zonal Summit of the Bridge Builders Initiative for Green Nigeria (BBIGN), a socio-political organization with the mandate to create platforms for political engagement, mobilization, and partnerships that contribute to the progress and prosperity of Nigeria.
According to a statement issued by the National Publicity Secretary of RATTAWU, Comrade Izang Francis Atsen, the President, emphasized that, “Democracy without women is incomplete.”
Represented at the summit by Comrade Terry Idahor, Vice President of RATTAWU (South-South Zone), Kalu addressed participants on the theme: “Building the Women and Connecting the Citizens: Bridging the Gap for Leadership and Nationhood.”
He emphasised that the contributions of women to nation-building are immeasurable and must be recognized as a central pillar of societal development.
President Kalu elaborated on the critical roles women play in nurturing generations, preserving family cohesion, fostering connections among citizens across different tribes, and instilling discipline within communities.
He described these efforts not merely as supportive, but as catalysts for national development, capable of driving a blueprint for Nigeria’s unity, stability, and long-term progress.
According to him, the unique values women bring to the table — hard work, honesty, transparency, inclusivity, and empathy, are essential for bridging divides and promoting harmony in a nation as diverse as Nigeria.
Despite their undeniable contributions, Kalu lamented that women have often been relegated to the background, their talents underutilized, and their values overlooked.
He observed that this marginalization has contributed to systemic challenges, including political instability, corruption, and social retrogression.
He stressed that the nation cannot afford to continue on a path where women are sidelined, and emphasised that their rightful inclusion in governance, economic, and social initiatives is critical for national transformation.
To address these issues, Kalu called for deliberate national efforts to invest in women and the girl child, including promoting education for girls, providing equal opportunities in leadership and governance, combating gender-based violence, ending discrimination, and eliminating harmful cultural practices.
He argued that these measures are not only moral imperatives but also practical strategies to accelerate Nigeria’s journey toward progress and prosperity.
Kalu reassured that under his leadership, RATTAWU will continue to project these ideals, championing inclusivity and ensuring that women become an integral part of the union’s vision of unity in diversity. He promised that the creation of the RATTAWU Women’s Wing would open more opportunities for women to explore their potential, contribute their expertise, and elevate the union to greater heights.
During the event, the National President was warmly received by the South-South Vice President, Edo State Administrative Council, and local chapter leaders during the summit.
In recognition of his leadership and commitment to the union’s values, he was presented with the RATTAWU Flag of Unity, symbolizing solidarity, cohesion, and collective strength within the union, particularly in Edo State.
President Kalu’s address highlighted the union’s vision of inclusivity, equity, and proactive engagement of women as vital contributors to nation-building.
By empowering women through education, representation, and targeted platforms like the Women’s Wing, RATTAWU aims to foster a culture of leadership, unity in diversity, and sustainable national progress, reflecting the indispensable role women play in shaping the destiny of Nigeria.