Disability Affairs (LASODA), Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal and Wellness Coach, Smita Nahesa during international women’s day celebration marked by Friendnpal at the Happiness Center in Lagos.
Experts have urged African women to prioritise their health and mental well-being while balancing multiple responsibilities. This call was made during the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) commemoration in Lagos, hosted by FriendnPal, an AI-powered multilingual mental health platform, under the theme “Accelerate Action: Empowering Women Through Health and Wellness.”
The Chief Executive Officer of FriendnPal, Esther Eruchie, highlighted how this year’s theme aligns with empowering women to take charge of their physical and mental health, despite their demanding roles.
Eruchie explained that African women juggle childcare, businesses, and other responsibilities, but often neglect their health. She stated that this initiative aims to empower women both mentally and physically.
The General Manager of Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, emphasised that women’s empowerment goes beyond advocacy, as it is about taking charge of their lives, health and economic stability.
Oyetunde-Lawal stressed the importance of intentional physical activity for all women, particularly those with disabilities, in fostering holistic well-being.
“The purpose of our gathering is to highlight how essential health awareness is for every woman, especially women with disabilities. Through activities like breathing exercises and yoga, we aim to reinforce the significance of physical fitness in ensuring that women, regardless of ability, can lead healthier and more fulfilling lives,” Oyetunde-Lawal stated.
Beyond physical wellness, the LASODA boss called for self-advocacy and financial independence among women.The Director of Art of Living Nigeria, Sukant Pal, underscored the importance of holistic health for women, urging them to prioritise their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Pal highlighted the direct link between mental and physical health, emphasising the role of breath control in managing stress and negative emotions. He said women take on so many business, family and leadership roles but often forget about their well-being. Pal highlighted the role of breathing techniques in reducing stress, detoxifying the body, and enhancing energy.
He further advised that despite busy schedules, women should carve out at least 20 minutes daily for breathing exercises and meditation to reduce anxiety and handle daily tasks more efficiently.
