International Women’s Day is celebrated every year to recognise the achievements and impact of women across different sectors.

The theme for 2026, “Give to Gain,” highlights the idea that investing in others, through philanthropy, mentorship, and social initiatives, can create lasting change in society.

Across Nigeria, several women have embraced this principle, using their wealth, influence, and platforms to support communities, empower young people, and expand opportunities for others.

From building hospitals to funding creative industries and supporting rural women, these efforts show that giving back can shape lives and strengthen institutions.

Here is a look at some Nigerian women whose philanthropic acts reflect the spirit of “Give to Gain.”

Folorunso Alakija

Businesswoman and philanthropist Folorunso Alakija recently made headlines after donating a 250-bed medical research and training hospital to Osun State University. The facility is expected to improve healthcare access in the state and also serve as a training centre for medical students.

Beyond large infrastructure projects, Alakija has also supported widows and vulnerable families through the Rose of Sharon Foundation, which provides scholarships, business grants and financial assistance to widows and orphans.

Mo Abudu

Media entrepreneur Mo Abudu has focused her efforts on expanding opportunities in Africa’s film and creative industry.

She recently announced plans to establish Hibiscus Finance, a film finance company designed to provide funding for film and television productions. She is also working on the Afro Film Fund, an initiative aimed at supporting filmmakers across Africa.

Through these projects, Abudu hopes to help filmmakers access funding, develop larger productions and strengthen the African film industry.

Awele Elumelu

Medical doctor and healthcare entrepreneur Awele Elumelu has focused on expanding access to quality healthcare.

Through Avon Medical, she has helped develop healthcare facilities and services aimed at improving access to medical care for Nigerians. The initiative also supports programmes that promote better healthcare delivery and medical services.

Ibukun Awosika

Former chairperson of First Bank of Nigeria, Ibukun Awosika, is widely known for mentoring young entrepreneurs and supporting women in business.

Through leadership programmes, mentorship initiatives and speaking engagements, she has helped many young Nigerians develop entrepreneurial skills and leadership capacity.

Omotade Alalade

Omotade Alalade founded the Beibei Haven Foundation, an organisation that supports couples dealing with infertility.

The foundation provides counselling, advocacy and medical support, helping to reduce stigma and create awareness around reproductive health issues. It also offers emotional support for families facing fertility challenges.

Through this initiative, Alalade has helped bring attention to a sensitive issue affecting many women and families.

Tiwa Savage

Music star Tiwa Savage recently announced the launch of the Tiwa Savage Music Foundation, an initiative aimed at mentoring and training emerging African music creatives. In partnership with Berklee College of Music in the United States, the programme will bring international music education to Lagos through an intensive training course for 100 young creatives.

The programme will offer mentorship and hands-on training in areas such as songwriting, music production, sound engineering and the business of music, helping young African artists develop the skills needed to succeed in the industry.

Ezinne Ukagwu

Ezinne Ukagwu is the director of the Iroto Rural Development Centre in Ogun State, where she has led programmes that train and empower women in rural communities.

The centre trains women in vocational and life skills, helping them develop income-generating activities and improve their livelihoods.

Thousands of women have benefited from the initiative, which focuses on reducing poverty and promoting economic independence among rural women.

These women represent different sectors, business, healthcare, activism, entertainment, entrepreneurship and the creative industry. Yet they share a common belief that success should be used to support others.

Their efforts reflect the message behind this year’s International Women’s Day theme: that giving whether through resources, mentorship, advocacy or opportunity can create lasting benefits for individuals and communities.