MY AWANI STORY
By: Funmito Obafemi
Tags: Gender Identity, Africa, Women, Gender Equality, My Awani Story

Women are elements of power in every society. We are the trees that bear fruits, struggle for survival, and unite the home. In society, we constitute more than half of the workforce group. No wonder do you see many of our mothers in the local market, marketing without technological advancements, and still play a huge role in the country’s economy. Although we are perceived to be more useful in the domestic scene in Africa, our roles in today’s society cannot be underestimated any longer. Why? Let’s find out in this article.

STATISTICAL FACTS ABOUT WOMEN

The National Bureau of Statistics asserts that "women constitute roughly half of the Nigerian population." In actual figures, there are about 99.1 million women in the country. That implies that the population is present. The saying, " Strength in Numbers" is evident. It gives the women population a voice as the figures can't be ignored

WOMEN AND HISTORY

In time past, women were symbols of power. Such were the stories of Queen Amina of Zaria that was a political, military, and economic figure. Moreover, the Aba Women of the 1929s took a stand against oppression in their land. Also, the likes of Mrs. Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti who took a stand against the Alake of Egbaland and forced him to abdicate his throne can't be left out. These women communicated one message - power. These mean you can't achieve much without the presence and contribution of these powerful beings.

THE NIGERIAN WOMAN TODAY

Despite the goodness that can be harnessed from these incredulous beings, their voices are clamped down. Their ideology is considered ludicrous. They divest us of our rights, leaving us in our shadows. The great "Patriarchy belief" that has been passed from generation to generation is still in place. Consequently, they belittle our importance. We have been objectified, sexualised, victimised, and even have to be at the mercy of our other equal. The tables have been turned as a woman who gets raped is at fault because of her mode of dressing. Or, women can be subjected to domestic violence because she is the husband's property.

No wonder do you find few women in political offices or achieving success in life. The popular belief that "women will end up in the kitchen" is still relevant as many young girls are being deprived of their educational rights. Let's not mention Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and child marriage that have left many of us scathed. It is no longer sad. It is sorrowful.

WAY OUT

We rise by lifting others. How can we do that? Education is the key. It is time we let our voices be heard. History should be passed down to everyone (Oral or written form). Tell them the stories of the Omu of Onitsha, Queen Amina of Zaria, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, and many other brave women who fought for a change. Get them informed. After all, Information is power. Books (Fiction and Nonfiction), social media, movies can serve this purpose. Let them unlearn and relearn things. We can teach our men to treat women with respect and love. Give them that value now. This is how we begin change - politically, economically, socially, and more. Start Now.