ABSTRACT
Women are aware of oppression as a result of class difference and biological differences. This findings resulting from this research study, shows their struggle to uplift themselves and their families, and inject freshness into their community. It is important to note their level of contribution to the success of the local areas(community) is also determined by their access to finance, for its quite difficult and for some, a solution have been sought. Most of the women that have succeeded, have built strong networks, with different objectives but a common goal of helping themselves, which have directly taken its tool to their success .Establishing a gender-friendly and gender sensitive society that is devoid of all vestiges of discrimination and inequity so as to harness the full potentials of all social groups and promote the principles of fundamental human rights is the thrust of Women's Consortium of Nigeria. From its inception, WOCON was guided by a clear vision of creating a more equitable society in which women would enjoy equal rights and opportunities. The organization's mission was centered on eliminating gender discrimination, promoting gender equality, and empowering women and girls throughout Nigeria. One of the early focuses of the Women's Consortium of Nigeria was advocacy for women's rights at both the grassroots and national levels.The organization engaged with policymakers, government agencies, and civil society to push for legislative and policy changes that would benefit women. This included advocating for legal reforms to protect women's rights and ensure their equal participation in society. Recognizing the importance of education in empowerment, WOCON initiated various educational programs, workshops, and seminars aimed at enhancing women's awareness of their rights and responsibilities. By equipping women with knowledge and skills, the organization empowered them to advocate for themselves and make informed decisions about their lives Economic empowerment emerged as a crucial aspect of WOCON's work. The organization worked to promote economic opportunities for women through initiatives such as entrepreneurship training, access to microcredit programs, and support for women-owned businesses.These efforts aimed to enable women to 59 become financially independent and contribute to their families and communities. Recognizing the importance of women's participation in politics and governance, WOCON encouraged women to get involved in political processes. The organization supported female political candidates and advocated for greater representation of women in decision-making bodies. Women that are empowered will be able to resists obnoxious cultural practices that dehumanize womanhood and ensure there is a redress to injustice done on the basis of sex. For example; the issue of female genital mutilation (otherwise known as women circumcision); early marriage, widowhood practice and purdarization of wom withen in the name of religion must be eliminated from the society. The Millennium Project Task Force on Education and Gender Equality (2005) provided five components for women‟s empowerment. These include: Women‟s sense of self worth; the right to have and to determine choices; the rights to have access to opportunities and resources; the rights to have the power to control their own lives both within and outside the home and the ability to influence the direction of social change to create a more just social and economic order.These are basic ingredients to women‟s empowerment and gender parity and must not be denied them. Hence, this has been the mandate of Women's Consortium of Nigeria( WOCON) to monitor the implementation of Women's Rights for the attainment of equal status of women in all aspects of social, political and economic development within society and the nation at large. WOCON's history is a testament to the dedication and resilience of the women activists who founded and sustained the organization's mission over the years. Today, it remains a vital force in the ongoing struggle for a more equitable and inclusive society. As we move forward, it is imperative to continue supporting and amplifying the efforts of organizations like the Women's Consortium of Nigeria, recognizing that women's rights are not just a matter of equality but a fundamental building block for a prosperous and harmonious society.
