The Chairperson and Convener of Asiwaju Renewed Hope (ARH’23), Kemi Olokode-Ayelabola has congratulated Nigerian women and those around the world on the auspicious occasion of 2025 International Women’s Day.
She also challenged governments at all levels to rise to the global challenge of ensuring gender equality and empowerment for all women and the girl-child.
The United Nations had set aside March 8, of every Year as a day to mark the International Women’s Day. This 2025 edition was themed “Accelerate Action,”
Kemi, a behavioural, developmental and child/young persons care professional in her message on Saturday said, “As the world marks International Women’s Day 2025 with the theme “Accelerate Action,” Nigeria should unconditionally stand out as a model of gender-inclusive governance, where women are not just given a seat at the table but are actively given the opportunity to shaping policies and driving meaningful changes in the scheme of things both in public and private sectors.”
According to her, IWD has provided yet another opportunity to reflect on the condition of women both at the global arena and national level with a view to providing a way forward for the betterment of Nigerian women.
“Today is a historic day in the struggle for the upliftment of Women across the continents. I recall with happiness the series of steps taken by the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at different levels to drive attention to the plight of women in the areas of health, education and opportunities in the scheme of things.
“However it is my wish therefore to felicitate with fellow Nigerian women and women all over the world on this very memorable and important day,’’ she added.
She also urged the women not to be discouraged by the seeming socio-economic challenges they had been experiencing in their journey towards greatness in the society.
She said: “As you may be aware, records have shown that women are the most vulnerable and poorest group globally. In Nigeria, this gap exists as a result of socio-economic and other factors. Despite these challenges that women face in their journey, however, they must not be deterred as they are the fountain of wisdom and endurance.
“As women commemorate this special day, the occasion should also serve as a reminder to governments at all levels and all critical stakeholders to reaffirm their commitment to promoting women’s rights, dignity, and well-being. It is my prayer and belief that governments will tirelessly create a society where women have equal opportunities to thrive, free from discrimination, violence, harassment, harmful traditional practices and marginalization,’’ the statement concluded.