An international organization Women N Media, has celebrated Y2026 International Women’s Day with a Summit, Empowerment and Stewardship Awards programme.
The event which was held on the 6th of March with the theme, “Give to Gain: Dismantle the Structural Barrier to Equal Justice”, was aimed at creating awareness on the need for government, international bodies and other social-political organizations to give women equal opportunities in all ramifications.
With a clarion call for collaboration in all areas of life, the gathering brought together professionals, policymakers and women leaders to discuss issues surrounding gender equality, empowerment and social justice.
In her welcome speech, The International President of the group- Dr. Princess Ayodele Williams (NLCF (PhD) who was ably represented at the event by the Lagos State Chairperson- Judith Betty Agu (Mrs) underscored the importance of justice for women.
According to her, “It is not a gift to be granted reluctantly, but a right to be guaranteed deliberately, as societies do not loose when they invest in women rather, they gain more in peace, prosperity, innovation and sustainable development”, she said.
Similarly, In her keynote address , Director of Commercial and Communications at News Central, Lady Rosemary Egabor Afolahan, spoke on the need to invest in women and girls.
According to her: “when society intentionally invests in women and girls, when we give them education, we give them protection, opportunity, and access to justice, we do not diminish our collective resources. Actually, we multiply them”, she said.
Lady Afolahan went further to explain that the media has a critical role in advancing equity and justice through responsible reporting, investigative journalism, and public awareness campaigns.
While she called for a deliberate societal action on giving women equal opportunities in all aspects of life, Afolahan noted that, “when we give to women and girls, Nigeria grows, when women gain opportunity, nations gain prosperity”, she added.
The guest speaker, National President of Women Optometrists in Nigeria, Dr Ogechi Nwokedi who addressed the distinguished guests, reiterated the need for women to have access to clear vision; which according to her, “is essential to achieving equal justice and equal opportunities in society”.
Nwokedi further explained that lack of access to basic eye care has continued to limit opportunities for many Nigerians especially women, while noting that simple solutions could make a major difference in people’s lives.
The high point of the event was the induction and presentation of Life Matron awards to Amb. Dr. Lois Andrew Iwho and Amb. Dr. Rosaline Adedoyin Amangbo who were ably represented.
Thereafter, notable women who have left their marks on the sand of times were given awards for their achievements and immense contributions to the society.
The Association of Business & Professional Women International also empowered some widows present at the event.
