ACCELERATING ACTION: EMPOWERING NIGERIAN WOMEN FOR A BRIGHTER FUTURE.  CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 2025.

International Women’s Day (IWD), celebrated annually on March 8, is a global event honoring the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It also serves as a call to action for accelerating gender parity worldwide. The theme for IWD 2025, “Accelerate Action”, underscores the urgency of taking bold, tangible steps to advance gender equality. In Nigeria, where women continue to play pivotal roles in nation-building, this theme resonates deeply.

The Nigerian Context: Progress and Challenges

Over the years, Nigeria has witnessed remarkable strides in promoting women’s rights and enhancing their participation in various sectors. From politics to business, academia to entertainment, Nigerian women have shattered glass ceilings, proving their capabilities beyond societal expectations. Today, women like Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Amina J. Mohammed, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Ibukun Awosika, Tobi Amusan, Tiwa Savage, and Arunma Oteh inspire a generation of young women to dream big and break barriers. Their success stories reflect the resilience and strength of Nigerian women in diverse fields.

Despite these successes, significant challenges persist. Gender inequality remains deeply rooted in many aspects of Nigerian society, manifesting in limited access to education, economic disparities, workplace discrimination, and deeply ingrained cultural norms that hinder women’s progress. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), women make up nearly 50% of Nigeria’s population, yet they are underrepresented in leadership positions and often face barriers in securing economic and social opportunities.

Accelerating Action in Nigeria: Key Areas of Focus

To truly accelerate action for women’s empowerment, Nigeria must prioritize key areas that address the systemic challenges women face. These include:

1. Education and Skill Development

Education is the foundation of empowerment. Investing in quality education for girls and young women ensures they have the skills and knowledge to contribute meaningfully to society. There is also an urgent need to bridge the gender gap in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. Programs that encourage girls to explore careers in technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship will foster long-term economic growth.

2. Economic Empowerment and Financial Inclusion

Women’s economic empowerment is not just a moral imperative; it is a necessary strategy for national development. Access to credit facilities, financial literacy programs, mentorship and grants for women entrepreneurs can unlock their potential and reduce dependency. More women must be encouraged to venture into business and leadership roles in corporate spaces, with policies that support equal pay and workplace inclusion.

3. Healthcare and Well-being

Women’s health, particularly maternal and reproductive health, remains a critical issue in Nigeria. Many women, especially in rural areas, lack access to adequate healthcare services, leading to high maternal mortality rates. Strengthening healthcare infrastructure, promoting awareness on reproductive health, and providing affordable medical services are vital steps toward ensuring women’s well-being.

4. Political Participation and Leadership

Women’s representation in governance remains alarmingly low. While there have been efforts to increase female participation in politics, women still hold only a small fraction of elected positions. Breaking the barriers that hinder women from taking up leadership roles requires deliberate efforts, including affirmative action, policy reforms, and targeted mentorship programs to prepare young women for political participation.

5. Ending Gender-Based Violence and Discrimination

Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a pressing concern in Nigeria, with women and girls facing domestic abuse, sexual violence, and harmful traditional practices such as child marriage and female genital mutilation. Stronger laws, better enforcement, and widespread advocacy campaigns are needed to protect women and ensure that perpetrators of such acts are held accountable. Civil society organizations, religious institutions, and government agencies must work together to create safe environments for women.

YOHESOR’s Commitment to Accelerating Action

At YOHESOR, we recognize that real change requires deliberate effort and sustained action. Our commitment to empowering Nigerian women aligns perfectly with this year’s IWD theme. Here’s how we are making a difference:

• Supporting Women Entrepreneurs: We organize financial literacy programs, training workshops, and provide microloans to support women-led businesses.
• Health Advocacy: We collaborate with healthcare providers to offer free medical check-ups, sexual and reproductive health education, and mental health support for women.
• Leadership Training: We conduct training sessions to prepare women for leadership positions in governance, business, and community development.
• Awareness Campaigns: Through digital and community outreach programs, we raise awareness on gender equality, women’s rights, and the importance of eliminating gender-based violence.

The Time for Action is Now

As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, we must acknowledge that true progress requires continuous effort. Women’s empowerment is not just about giving them a seat at the table; it is about redesigning the table to ensure that every woman has a voice, a vote, and the power to shape the future.

Conclusion

The theme “Accelerate Action” is a reminder that waiting is no longer an option. Governments, organizations, and individuals must come together to dismantle the barriers holding women back and create a more inclusive society. At Yohesor, we believe that when women thrive, Nigeria prospers.

Happy International Women’s Day 2025! Let’s commit to accelerating action and making a lasting impact!