The wife of Niger State Governor, Hajiya Fatima Mohammad Umaru Bago, has emphasised the need for women to always remember the critical roles they need to play in reshaping the narratives not just at the state level in Nigeria, but the world at large.

Bago made the observation in her keynote address at a two-day training on etiquette, protocol, security and empowerment for female political office holders in the state.

She noted that the involvement of women in governance is not just an option, adding that it is a necessity for the growth and betterment of society, as women have continue to show capacity with attendant goodwill in various field of endeavors.

Bago said: “No discussion will be complete without addressing the pressing issues of gender based violence. It is incumbent upon all stakeholders to create environments that are safe and supportive, where women can thrive without fear or subjugation.”

She, however, enjoined women in the state to take adequate advantage of state’s vast arable land with the agricultural value chain benefits therein and key into the mantra of the “New Niger”.

Earlier, the Special Adviser to the governor on Women and Affirmative Action, Mrs Mary Beryl Noel Berje, noted that the two-day capacity building forum was aimed at providing special orientation to women political office holders and scale up their performance.

There were paper presentations by resource persons drawn from academy, business and security circles. Topics discussed include, gender based violence against women, policy making, trafficking of children, etiquette, security and enterpreneurship among others.

Participants include wives of minister from Niger State, commissioners, special advisers, local council chairmen, state house of assembly members, as well as female political appointees.