There was probably nothing more heart-warming at the Democracy Day Parade than the combat march by the Nigerian Army Women Corps, IgbereTV reports
The brilliant display began on Monday with an uncertain whimper and grew into a scream. With clangs of the barrel, the ladies spurred themselves on into a march that enlivened the Eagles Square in Abuja and buoyed spirits up at the arena.
Their motorbikes led the way and the women marched with great poise to the relish of spectators who could not help but roar back their delight with screams and cacophonous applause.
Led by Lieutenant Vera Jacob, the Army Women Squad proceeded towards the presidential booth, and there they recited the soldiers’ creed and got President Muhammadu Buhari’s permission to carry on.
Upon command, the women squad took a turn, marched off, and at the rare side of the ground, they brought their parade to a halt with yet another loud cry and clanging of their barrels.
Although it was a short performance, it sent a shockwave across the Eagles Square and beyond – a very vital message for the country and by proxy the continent. It is the message of equality in a society that has too long been driven by the patriarchy
