The Women Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (WOWICAN), Southwest Zone, has called on women to wake up from their slumber and help salvage society from decay.
The body made the plea at its 10th annual zonal convention, investiture, award presentation, and women’s empowerment held in Lagos at the Apostolic Church of Nigeria, LAWNA Territory, Ketu.
The women also observed during the event that raising godly children has become a thing of the past while bemoaning the various vices in society.
Women are strategic
In her speech at the event which spanned four days Chairperson of the organisation, Most Senior Mother-in-Israel, Prophetess Odunola Raji-Adebesin, noted that Christian women are strategic to family life.
According to her, women have great intellect and the ability to impact godly values on both society and the church.
The WOWICAN chairperson who spoke on the theme, ‘Repositioning Women For Growth and Development urged the women to live up to the billing of motherhood.
“It is time for us to rise and ensure that our homes are Christlike. We need to guide our children and wards against pornography, indecent dressing, and other social vices,” she said.
While calling for more prayers and watchfulness regarding the state of security in the nation she said, “It is high time we take our position in the rulership of our great nation. We must unleash our talents with positive force to benefit the body of Christ and the entire nation.
“Let us be conscious of the situation in our country. We must take extra caution in everything we do, be prayerful, watchful, and trust Him, security is of God. ”
She further called on mothers to seek the Lord diligently concerning their homes and help preserve the marriage institution.
Nigeria in chaos
Prophetess Odunola Raji-Adebesin bemoaned the economic downturn in the country and the gripping poverty in the land.
She said: “This country is in chaos, cost of living is skyrocketing, economic hardship is biting seriously, businesses are crumbling, companies are folding up, indeed we are in a trying period.”
She however expressed confidence that Nigeria will overcome her challenges. “With focus, determination, self-discipline, steadfastness, and above all persistent prayer to God, we will reach the greater height prepared for us by God,” she hoped.
South West CAN Chair
Southwest Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Bishop Dr. Barnabas Tunde Akin-Akinsanya in a paper presented on his behalf advocated that all forms of discrimination against women be eradicated.
He also called for economic empowerment initiatives to enable women to function maximally and contribute to local, national, and international development.
Akin-Akinsanya who was represented by CAN Southwest, Director for Education, Women and Youth, Special Apostle Ayegbusi Emmanuel Taiwo stated in part: “The current status of women in our society and various social organisations is not ideal. In many societies, outdated perceptions about women’s roles still prevail, whereas the dignity of women deserves due recognition and positive appraisal.
“Women represent a significant portion of the population and their impact on growth and development from the family level to the global stage is highly prominent.
“We must combat all forms of discrimination against women in every sector, including faith-based organisations. Women should have access to quality education and should not be underrated in appointments to positions.”
Call to prayer
Also at the event, the National Chairperson of WOWICAN, General Lady Superintendent, Dr. Ayobami Akinadewo, called on women to be more prayerful, diligent and have unwavering faith.
She urged the APC-led government to show more concern in tackling the myriad of problems in the country
While expressing confidence there will be light at the end of the tunnel she said, ” We will be the ones who will eat the good of the land by His grace.”
She pleaded with Nigerians not to waver in faith adding “God will bring out something out of the crisis we found ourselves. At this time, don’t just sit at home and expect somebody to bring something for you. You too go out and do something.
“I have a farm behind my house where I planted yam, okra, and I have a fish pond. Let every one of us do something. When we do something, things will be better. Don’t rely on people to bring everything for you, but you too, contribute your quota. If every one of us can do that, things will be better.”
Dignitaries
Several prominent women including the Founder of Love of Christ Generation Church, Rev. Mother Abimbola Esther Ajayi graced the event.
Those who were recipient of various awards and honour expressed appreciation to the body for recognizing their efforts.
They pledged to continue to be a blessing to humanity and also help to always promote the good news of Jesus Christ