Today across the globe is World Population Day.
The day, which started in 1989 by the United Nations, after a proposal by Dr. KC Zachariah, on the eve of the worldwide population crossing five billion on July eleven, 1987, has its 2023 theme as “Unleashing the power of gender Equality: Uplifting the voices of women and girls to unlock world’s infinite possibilities.”
World Population Day reminds the people of the emerging challenges of rapid population growth around the world, while focusing on gender equality, women empowerment and a better future for girls.
It also serves as a call to action to address issues and work toward a better world for everyone since humanity is faced with a number of challenges arising from rapid growth of the global population that severely impacts the levels of poverty, economic issues, and maternal health of the masses.
Speaking on the significances of the day, the chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Anambra State Council, Dr. Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, called for a firm commitment from government at all levels to build a reality where everybody has a promising future filled with opportunities.
Dr. Odogwu, who affirmed that World Population Day encourages individuals and organizations to take positive action by increasing awareness and understanding of the global population, noted that it also provides a unique opportunity for advocacy of causes like gender equality, women’s empowerment and their role in the shaping of a better world.
While calling for the conduct of the postponed National Population and Housing census Dr. Odogwu, noted that World Population Day highlights how rise in population worsens poverty, economic crisis , and the difficulties faced by women.
He added that it aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals 2030’s goal of a sustainable future for everyone.
Correspondent Ebele Ezeh reports that the first World Population Day, was observed on July eleven, 1990, in more than ninety countries.
Comments are closed for this post.