The widow of Zannah Umar Mustapha, former deputy Governor of Borno State, Hajia Hansatu Goldben Zannah, has called for an increased and deliberate investment in women and girl-child, describing the laudable move as a purposeful strategy for national progress and cohesion.
She made this assertion in a statement she made available to newsmen on Thursday to commemorate the 2026 edition of International Women’s Day which is celebrated March 8, of every calendar year.
The statement reads, “I feel so fulfilled and elated to be identified with my fellow women across the globe as we collectively commemorate the 2026 edition of International Women’s Day. For me it is an opportunity to celebrate every woman, daughters, sisters, aunts, mothers, grandmothers and also great grandmothers, for their resilience, doggedness, passion, courage, etc that brought us thus far and more importantly adding significant value to humanity.
“The theme for year 2026 resonates deeply –“Give To Gain.” It’s a call to action while also highlighting the power of giving support, opportunities, knowledge and resources to advance women’s empowerment. It further encourages a mindset of generosity and collaboration which must be respectfully upheld in its entirety at local, sub-national and at national levels. Without doubt, investing in women, not as charity, but a strategy to build the future of our dear nation, Nigeria.
“It will really be a thing of joy seeing Nigeria to be at par with comity of nations in line with international standards, norms, or practices that advance women empowerment and greatness and of course this will largely make our country to be recognized and respected globally, especially when international benchmarks are met, and as we play significant role in global affairs that deepen the interest and success of women and girl-child.”
The statement added, “All relevant stakeholders across board owe the female gender the duty to forge gender equality through right legislation, abundant giving etc, thankfully this year’s theme encourages a mindset of generosity and collaboration. It also emphasizes the power of reciprocity and support. When people, organizations, governments and communities give generously, opportunities and support for women increase. Giving is not a subtraction, it’s intentional multiplication. When women thrive, we all rise and this is better for the society at large.
“Whether through donations, knowledge, resources, infrastructure, visibility, advocacy, education, training, mentoring, or time, contributing to women’s advancement helps create a more supportive and interconnected world. This is also an opportunity for us all to come together, bond and love one another. It is also the pathway to genuine and much anticipated progress for sociatal excellence. I charge all women; just pull a sister up, one at a time. You will be amazed what we can achieve collectively, with amazing milestones.”
