The First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, on Sunday in Abuja commended the Catholic Women Organisation (CWO), for promoting education in the society.
Jonathan gave the commendation at the 8th African Regional Assembly of the World Union of Catholic Women Organisation (WUCWO), which had the theme “Love in Action’’.
She said the organisation’s education programmes are similar to what her Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) does, adding “it is worthy of note that your organisation endorses education for all.
“Education is a tool that can free our citizens, especially women and children, from the shackles of poverty.’’
The First Lady urged the church also to give equal opportunities for women to serve God.
“It is important to note that the church should not relegate women to the background, but ensure they are given equal opportunities to work with their menfolk in the Lord's vineyard,’’ she said.
Madam Maria Ruggieri, President of WUCWO, said the conference should focus on love teachings as Jesus' true disciples, in order to reach the poor and less privileged.
She said it was unfortunate that Africa which should be the richest in the world was facing problems of violence and crime.
Ruggieri also urged mothers to hold the family in high esteem by paying particular attention to the girl-child as the future of the church and the world.
Mrs Felicia Onyeabo, the President, National Council of Catholic Women Organisation (NCWO), said in her address that the assembly would seek ways to promote peace within and outside the Catholic Church.
“WUCWO is all about spreading the gospel of peace, love and harmonious existence.
'“I urge all speakers to talk about this in great detail, brainstorm and find ways of cultivating love in the society as bridge-builders, change-agents and agents of peace.
“I welcome our sisters across Africa who suffered to get here and I also urge all African leaders to look into flight challenges across Africa.
“It is easier to fly from Africa to US or Europe than flying between African countries,’’ she added.
