Funke Olaode
The national representatives of the West African Women Association (WAWA) Community of West African States (ECOWAS), led by some of its board members recently honoured former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon with a special award for his contribution to ‘Gender Parity in the African Context’.
Those at Gowon’s residence to honour him included Mrs. Betty Ubeku, Mrs. Agnes Otobo Ojehomon, Mrs. Theresa Maku, Ms. Tabitha Wakshama, Mrs. Ojemen, Ms. Gladys Eriamialoe, Sir Chris Akwarandu, Mr. Usifo Oluwasegun and Mr. Damilola Saibu, who are representatives of GABASWA/WAWA networks.
According to Mrs. Ubeku, the Women Association in ECOWAS sub-region initiated the award in recognition of Gowon’s selfless service and contribution to humanity, and more importantly, the growth and development of women in Nigeria, Africa and globally.
Mrs. Agnes Ojehomon recounted that it was the efforts of the Gowon that led to the unity of Nigeria after the three year civil war.
“After the war the surname of the General was divinely interpreted to mean ‘Go With One Nigeria’ (GOWON), an “acronym”, which accidentally commemorates the divine unity of Nigeria till today.
Accepting the award, Gowon who was full of encomiums to the team, the organisation and its members, women in Nigeria, Africa and in the Diaspora, recounted the support of his wife when he was the head of state of Nigeria during the war, and her selfless service as a wife and mother in contributing to the unity of Nigeria.
He emphasised the positive role that led to his effort in unifying Nigeria as one. He went further to tell the team that the woman, his beautiful wife still remains with him in love, happiness, in joy and oneness and indeed her role as a mother after the war and till present time solidify the unity of their home.
