Stakeholders have called for stronger investment in women and girls as part of activities marking International Women’s Day 2026, with a focus on leadership, care, and justice.
The event, which brought together the Commander of the 303 Composite Group, Gp Capt L.A. Lawal, senior officers, female officers, airwomen, distinguished guests, and members of NAFOWA and AWA, highlighted the role of women in national development.
In a keynote address, the speaker described the celebration as both a moment of recognition and reflection. The speech emphasized the theme “Give to Gain: Leadership, Care and Justice for Women and Girls”, noting that investing in women leads to stronger families, communities, and national growth.
The address acknowledged the contributions of women across homes, workplaces, and society, while also pointing out ongoing challenges such as inequality, limited access to opportunities, and injustice. Participants were urged to increase support, mentorship, and leadership opportunities for women and girls. Young girls at the event were encouraged to pursue education, stay focused, and build confidence in their abilities, as they are the future leaders of the nation.
As part of the programme, organisers unveiled a lineup of speakers to drive discussions around the theme. Azeezat Quadri Ibrahim, Deputy Registrar at the Vice Chancellor’s Office, University of Ilorin, spoke on investing in others as a pathway to personal growth and leadership. Oluwatoyin Olaniyi of DELE Group addressed the impact of service, sacrifice, and support in personal and professional growth. Olaide Ajiboye, former director at Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies, focused on empowering women to build stronger families and communities.
Earlier, Hajia Maryam Akande-Lawal, in her goodwill message, described the day as a reminder of the strength, resilience, and value of women in society. She stressed that acts of kindness, unity, and shared support remain key to collective growth. She urged women to continue empowering one another and building a society where every woman has the opportunity to thrive.
The event ended with a renewed call for sustained efforts toward promoting leadership, care, justice, and equal opportunities for women and girls.
