Akpabio hails Nigerian women’s resilience, sacrifices
As Nigeria joined the rest of the world to commemorate International Women’s Day (IWD) yesterday, the fire of women’s empowerment and substantial inclusion in governance was rekindled across the country.
  
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, explained that his sponsorship of the Special Seats for Women Bill was aimed at strengthening women’s participation in governance and promoting inclusive national development.
  
In a statement yesterday, Kalu called for increased investment in women as a strategic pathway to national development and inclusive growth.
  
He noted that this year’s theme, ‘Give to Gain’, highlights the importance of investing in women through access to resources, quality education and leadership opportunities to build a stronger and more equitable society.
  
According to him, empowering women produces far-reaching benefits for nations, stressing that societies thrive economically, socially and politically when women are given the tools and opportunities to succeed.
  
Kalu reiterated his commitment to gender equity and women’s empowerment, noting that his legislative actions reflect that conviction.

In the same vein, the Interim National Chairman of the Labour Party (LP), Esther Nenadi Usman, called for stronger legislative and policy measures to promote the full participation of women in governance and decision-making across Nigeria.
  
In a statement released to mark the IWD, Usman congratulated women around the world, with special recognition for the resilience, dedication and contributions of Nigerian women, whom she described as pillars of society whose efforts shaped communities, driven economic growth, and strengthened families and institutions nationwide.
  
“Nigeria can only reach its full potential when the voices, talents and leadership of women are fully deployed and respected in every sphere of national life,” Usman said. 
  
She emphasised that the day was not only a celebration of women’s achievements, but also a reminder of the ongoing need to address structural barriers that limit women’s participation in politics and governance.

Relatedly, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) reaffirmed its commitment to women’s inclusion in politics, stating that women must move from the margins to the centre of leadership and decision-making. 
  
In a statement signed by the National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party noted that Nigerian women bear a disproportionate share of the nation’s social and economic responsibilities, yet remain significantly underrepresented in many national institutions. 
  
The ADC said its National Working Committee (NWC) reflects a deliberate effort to include women in leadership and stresses women’s empowerment as essential to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.
  
“ADC is the only political party in Nigeria whose constitution explicitly reserves 40 per cent of all party positions to women.”

On his part, President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, congratulated women across the world, particularly Nigerian women, commending their resilience, sacrifices and invaluable contributions to society.
  
In a statement issued yesterday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, EsemeEyiboh, the Senate President described women as pillars of strength whose daily efforts continue to shape families, communities and the nation.
  
Akpabio noted that women play vital roles in nurturing families and supporting societal growth, adding that their contributions often go beyond recognition. He said mothers, wives, daughters, sisters and female colleagues consistently demonstrate dedication and commitment in making the world a better place. 

Wife of the President, Oluremi Tinubu, called for sustained efforts towards advancing the rights, opportunities and empowerment of women and girls, noting that the progress of women is central to national development.
  
In a message to commemorate the IWD, the First Lady joined millions of Nigerians and the global community in celebrating the resilience, courage and remarkable achievements of women across the country and around the world.
 
She noted that the yearly observance provides an opportunity to reflect on the invaluable contributions women make to families, communities and national development, while also reaffirming the collective responsibility to promote gender equality and inclusiveness.