The push for gender equality took center stage in the nation’s capital as the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) FCT Chapter, She Forum Africa, and key partners rallied to mark the start of International Women’s Month on Saturday.
At a vibrant reception hosted at the Nike Art Gallery, Abuja, female leaders, diplomats, and advocates reaffirmed their commitment to advancing women’s rights, amplifying marginalized voices, and fostering opportunities for women and girls across Nigeria.
NAWOJ FCT Chairperson, Comrade Bassey Ita Ikpang, called on Nigerian women to unite in the fight for gender equity, stressing the importance of ensuring that women in rural and underserved communities are not left behind.
“Together, we must strengthen our efforts to ensure that women’s voices, especially those in marginalized communities, are heard and acted upon,” she urged.
She Forum Africa founder, Inimfon Etuk, underscored the significance of collaboration among women-led organizations, emphasizing the need for strong networks that empower women to connect and succeed.
“Our network is open to every woman and girl, offering them the opportunity to leverage connections for their success,” she stated.
The event also drew international support, with Finland’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Her Excellency Sanna Selin, and Sweden’s Annika Hahn-Englund sharing insights on global strides toward gender equality.
Selin highlighted Finland’s achievements in women’s representation, assuring Nigerian women that they, too, are on the path to breaking systemic barriers. Meanwhile, Hahn-Englund emphasized the importance of raising boys with values that foster respect for women, positioning this as key to building a more equitable society.
The event saw participation from dignitaries and corporate sponsors, including Guinness Nigeria, Nike Art Gallery, and the Finnish and Swedish Embassies, all pledging continued support for women’s empowerment initiatives.
Adding to the discourse, Linda Akhigbe, Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on ECOWAS and a veteran broadcaster, lent her voice to the cause, reinforcing the need for sustained advocacy.
Barrister Chioma Momah of Guinness Nigeria shared her personal journey, reaffirming the company’s commitment to advancing women’s causes in the workplace and beyond.
The celebration featured cultural dances, a fashion parade, and a tribute to Chief Dr. Nike Okundaye, fondly known as Mama Nike, the founder of Nike Art Gallery. Guests donned traditional headgear as a symbol of empowerment, further underscoring the essence of the gathering.
As the event concluded, the message was clear unity and collective action remain the most powerful tools in the fight for gender equity.