…mobilise eight million members as concern grows over rising insecurity
By Gloria Ikibah
The National Council of Women Societies (NCWS) has announced a seven-day nationwide prayer programme in response to the rising wave of kidnappings across the country, particularly the recent abductions of schoolchildren in Oyo State, Borno State and other affected communities. 
The initiative, which is expected to involve more than eight million women across Nigeria, was unveiled by the President of the council, Princess Edna Azura, who expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation and the growing number of children and other citizens being held in captivity.
In a statement issued on behalf of the organisation, Princess Azura said the prayer exercise will focus on seeking divine intervention for the safe release of abducted victims, as well as peace, security and stability across the country.
The NCWS President, alongside Hajia Aisha Ringo and other national officers of the council, said the current security challenges confronting Nigeria require collective action and spiritual support from citizens, especially women and mothers.
She said: “As mothers, we owe it to our nation and to the children whose lives have been disrupted by these unfortunate incidents to pray fervently for their safe return. We must continue to support all efforts aimed at restoring peace, security and stability across Nigeria.”
Princess Azura therefore urged women, religious organisations, traditional rulers and community leaders to remain steadfast in prayers for the affected families, security agencies and government institutions working to tackle insecurity.
She also commended the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in addressing security concerns, stressing that the fight against insecurity requires the support and cooperation of all Nigerians.
According to her, the decision to organise the nationwide prayer programme was informed by the urgent need to seek God’s intervention in the nation’s affairs at a critical time.
“We see the commitment and sleepless nights being invested in tackling the nation’s security concerns. As women and mothers, we are lending our support through sustained prayers because we believe that divine intervention, alongside ongoing security measures, will strengthen efforts to protect lives and property across the country.
“As mothers, it has become necessary for us to rise and pray for Nigeria. NCWS remains committed to supporting government efforts through prayers and advocacy. We believe that with unity of purpose and faith, our nation will overcome its present challenges and emerge stronger,” she added.
The council reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace, protecting children and advancing the welfare of women and families across Nigeria.
It also called on Nigerians from all walks of life to participate in the seven-day prayer exercise and remain hopeful that all kidnapped children and other victims of abduction would return safely to their families.
In separate remarks, other leaders of the organisation stressed the importance of parental responsibility in addressing some of the social challenges facing the country.
They urged parents and guardians, particularly mothers, to pay closer attention to the upbringing of their children by monitoring their associations and providing proper guidance from an early age.
According to the council’s leaders, strong family values, moral discipline and active parental involvement remain essential to raising responsible citizens and building a safer society.
The prayer initiative comes amid growing public concern over recurring cases of kidnappings and attacks in parts of the country, with calls intensifying for both community action and stronger security measures to protect lives and restore public confidence.
