News
International Women’s Day: Diplomat Advocates Stronger Investment in Women for Faster Global Growth
Cyril Ogar
Ambassador of the Women of Liberty and Moral Integrity (WOLMI) to the United Nations, Prof. Victoria Ayishetu Enape, has called on governments, international organisations and private institutions to increase investments in women as a strategic pathway to sustainable global development.
Enape made the call in a statement marking the 2026 International Women’s Day, themed “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress.”
She said the celebration was not only a moment to recognise women’s achievements worldwide but also a reminder that the progress of humanity remained closely tied to the empowerment of women.
According to her, women across cultures and continents have demonstrated resilience, leadership and innovation in shaping societies, building institutions and nurturing future generations.
“Women have served as educators, entrepreneurs, policymakers, scientists, diplomats and peacebuilders across the world.
“Yet millions of women and girls still face structural barriers that limit their access to education, financial resources, leadership opportunities and economic participation,” she said.
Enape noted that investing in women was not merely a matter of social justice but a strategic investment capable of strengthening economies, improving family welfare and promoting global stability.
Citing data from global institutions such as the United Nations, World Bank and International Monetary Fund, she said empowering women had consistently proven to boost economic growth, build resilient communities and foster sustainable development.
She emphasised that women’s economic empowerment remained one of the most transformative pathways for advancing gender equality.
“When women have access to financial resources, entrepreneurial opportunities and professional networks, they become powerful drivers of economic transformation.
“Women-owned businesses create employment, stimulate innovation and contribute significantly to national productivity,” she said.
The envoy also stressed the importance of education in empowering women and girls, describing it as one of the most powerful investments nations could make for future development.
According to her, beyond traditional education, women must be equipped with digital skills, financial literacy, leadership training and access to technology to thrive in an increasingly innovation-driven global economy.
Enape further highlighted the need for greater participation of women in leadership and decision-making processes at all levels of governance.
She said inclusive leadership was essential in addressing global challenges such as economic inequality, climate change, peace and security.
“The challenges confronting humanity today require diverse perspectives and inclusive leadership.
“Women must therefore be fully represented in leadership positions from local communities to national governments and international institutions,” she said.
She reaffirmed her commitment, as WOLMI’s ambassador to the UN, to advancing initiatives that promote women’s leadership, economic empowerment and global collaboration through advocacy, partnerships and capacity-building programmes.
According to her, empowering women is a global development imperative that benefits entire societies.
“When women rise, nations prosper. When women lead, societies become more just and inclusive. And when women are empowered, the world becomes more peaceful and sustainable,” she said.
Enape called on governments, international organisations, civil society groups and private institutions to work together to create policies and opportunities that support women and girls globally.
She added that the vision of a world characterised by equality, opportunity and shared prosperity could only be achieved when women everywhere were empowered to lead, innovate and transform societies.
News
Nigeria at 66: ‘We Must Not Lose Faith in Nigeria’ — FCC Boss Omidiran
Joel Ajayi
The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Honorable Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has called on Nigerians to use the occasion of the nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary to renew their faith in Nigeria, strengthen national unity and recommit themselves to building a more inclusive and prosperous country.
In her 66th Independence Day message, Hon. Omidiran described October 1 as more than a celebration of freedom, saying the anniversary provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey, acknowledge its progress and challenges, and renew the collective determination to build a nation where every citizen has a sense of belonging.
According to the FCC Executive Chairman, the Federal Character Principle remains particularly important to the quest for national cohesion because equitable representation promotes a sense of ownership and confidence in the Nigerian project.
“Nigeria is a nation of great diversity and
enormous potential. Our responsibility is to ensure that this diversity becomes a bridge that connects us rather than a barrier that separates us. Every Nigerian deserves to feel that he or she belongs to this country and has a role to play in its development,” Omidiran said.
The FCC boss called on government institutions at all levels to remain committed to fairness, equity, accountability and inclusive governance, while urging citizens to support efforts aimed at strengthening national institutions and promoting peaceful coexistence.
“We must not lose faith in Nigeria. The challenges before us are real, but so are the opportunities and the enormous human and natural resources available to us. Every citizen has a responsibility to contribute his or her own quota to building the Nigeria we desire,” she stated.
The FCC Executive Chairman also urged young Nigerians to remain committed to acquiring knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship, innovation, sports and other productive ventures, describing the youth as critical stakeholders in the country’s future.
“As we celebrate 66 years of independence, let us remember that the Nigeria we want cannot be built by government alone. It requires the commitment of all of us – leaders and citizens, young and old, from every part of the federation. Together, we can build a Nigeria where justice, fairness, opportunity and peace are available to all,” she said.
Omidiran reaffirmed the FCC’s commitment to the effective discharge of its constitutional mandate and to supporting efforts that promote equitable representation and inclusive national development across the federation.
The former lawmaker wished Nigerians at home and abroad a peaceful and memorable 66th Independence Anniversary, praying for continued peace, stability, prosperity and progress for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Our differences should never be greater than our common identity as Nigerians. Let us continue to choose unity over division, service over self-interest and hope over despair. The Nigeria of our dreams is possible if we all play our part,” Omidiran said.
“On behalf of the Federal Character Commission, I congratulate all Nigerians on this 66th Independence Anniversary. May this occasion renew our patriotism, strengthen our unity and inspire us to work together for a stronger, more equitable and prosperous Nigeria. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” she added.
-
Featured7 years agoLampard Names New Chelsea Manager
-
Featured6 years agoFG To Extends Lockdown In FCT, Lagos Ogun states For 7days
-
Featured7 years agoChildren Custody: Court Adjourns Mike Ezuruonye, Wife’s Case To April 7
-
Featured7 years agoNYSC Dismisses Report Of DG’s Plan To Islamize Benue Orientation Camp
-
Featured5 years agoTransfer Saga: How Mikel Obi Refused to compensate me After I Linked Him Worth $4m Deal In Kuwait SC – Okafor
-
Featured7 years ago
Board urges FG to establish one-stop rehabilitation centres in 6 geopolitical zones
-
Sports4 years ago
TINUBU LAMBAST DELE MOMODU
-
News2 years agoZulu to Super Eagles B team, President Tinubu is happy with you
