Writing by Ali Muhammad Rabi’u;Editing by Abubakar Hamza.
Nigerians have been urged to support and invest in women and girls to ensure stronger families, community and national development.
Chairperson of the Nigerian Air Force Officers Wives Association,NAFOWA ,Hajiya Marriam Lawal, stated this during a programme in commemoration of the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration in Ilorin.
She said this was an opportunity to recognise the resilience and contributions of women across society.
According to her this year’s theme, “Give to Gain: Leadership, Care and Justice for Women and Girls,” emphasises the need for deliberate mentorship, protection, and opportunities for women and girls.
“When we invest in women and girls, society as a whole benefits. Giving opportunities, support and protection to women does not diminish others; instead, it strengthens families, communities and the nation,” Marriam said.
The Chairperson urged young girls to remain focused on their dreams, saying, “You are the future leaders of our nation. Believe in yourselves, work hard, stay focused and never allow anyone to limit your dreams.”
In her remarks at the event, the Chairman of the Kwara State branch of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM), Mrs Azeezat Ibrahim encouraged women to uplift others as a pathway to leadership and personal growth.
“At first glance, give to gain may sound like a contradiction, but life teaches us otherwise. When you share knowledge, it multiplies. When you encourage someone, confidence grows both theirs and yours,” she said.
In a remark Retired Director of the Michael Imodu National Institute for Labour Studies (MINILS), Mrs Olaide Ajiboye, reminded participants that women are central to building families and communities.
She urged women to embrace leadership roles, mentor younger generations, and advocate for equal access to education.
Ali Muhammad Rabi’u.
