PALANG KASMI highlights how women in Plateau State are being encouraged to take up leadership roles and contribute meaningfully to governance, while also examining grassroots efforts by community women to mentor children and youths against social vices.
Women have been urged to deliberately aspire to leadership roles in both private and public spheres in order to contribute effectively to national development.They were also advised to lead by example and demonstrate good followership qualities to enhance their progress in various endeavours.
The advice was given by the Chairperson of Stand Up for Women Societies (SWS), Plateau State Chapter, Mrs Rhoda Pomak Micah, during the organisation’s quarterly meeting and activities marking the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD).
The event was held on March 29, 2026, at the School of Health, Pankshin, in Pankshin Local Government Area of Plateau State, attracting members from branches across the state.In her remarks, the Chairperson noted that the meeting aligned with the 2026 IWD theme, “Give to Gain.”
She urged women to collaborate and work together to impact the lives of vulnerable groups, stressing that this aligns with the organisation’s objectives.
She also listed the organisation’s activities, including prison visits, hospital visitations, awareness creation, education, training, mentoring, and contributions to women’s advancement, all aimed at making lasting impacts on beneficiaries.
Micah encouraged members to embrace the spirit of generosity and collaboration, urging them to attend the 2026 SWS International Conference in Abuja as an opportunity for networking and partnership.
“For the development of women and vulnerable groups in our society, let us all continue to give our support as individuals and share our knowledge and encouragement with others to mentor them,” she stated.
Leadership, mentorship, women’s advancement
SWS Vice President (Zone D), covering North Central Nigeria, Ms Ladi Emmanuel, also spoke on leadership, urging women in leadership positions to perform effectively and build lasting legacies.She emphasised that leaders should be mindful of their actions, as they may not know who is observing them or where future opportunities may arise.
The national officer disclosed that the SWS National Body has directed all state chapters to organise leadership training to encourage women’s participation in leadership roles.
She added that the Plateau State Chapter would soon organise such training, urging women to avoid unhealthy rivalry and instead support one another’s growth.
In her remarks, the wife of the Pankshin Local Government Chairman, Mrs Margaret Felix Gonung, represented by the Head of Women Unit of Pankshin LGA, Regina Shikgura, pledged support for the organisation’s initiatives.
She commended the group for championing the cause of women, particularly vulnerable groups, both within the state and beyond.
In a presentation on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), the SWS State Secretary, Mrs Katmua Yirse, encouraged participants to utilise ADR mechanisms in Plateau State for resolving civil and family disputes.She explained that ADR offers affordable filing fees and timely resolution of cases, based on insights from a training she attended on behalf of the organisation.
In another presentation titled “Leadership: Respect and Dignity,” a retired Plateau State Permanent Secretary and State Matron of SWS, Mrs Nanlop Gupiya, emphasised the importance of good followership and responsible leadership.
She urged leaders to demonstrate humility, respect, and inclusiveness to foster organisational growth and development.
The event concluded with a commemorative walk to mark International Women’s Day, with participants carrying placards bearing messages such as “Rights, Justice, Action for Women,” advocating greater inclusion of Nigerian women in leadership.