First Lady Oluremi Tinubu on Sunday called for accelerated investment in women’s empowerment as a cornerstone of national progress in a message commemorating International Women’s Day.
Speaking on the 2026 theme, “Rights, justice, action for all Women and Girls,” the First Lady described it as a call to action rather than charity.
“Empowering women is not an act of charity; it is an investment in our collective future,” Mrs. Tinubu said.
The First Lady emphasized the need for access to education, healthcare, economic opportunities, leadership roles, justice, and equity, arguing that these build stronger families, prosperous communities, and an inclusive nation.
“When women rise, Nigeria rises!” Mrs. Tinubu declared, joining “millions of Nigerians and the global community” in celebrating women’s “strength, courage, tenacity, and achievements.”
NewsQuest reports that International Women’s Day is an annual occasion observed on March 8, and that Nigeria is joining as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to address gender disparities amid economic challenges and to advocate for women’s roles in governance and development.
The occasion is celebrated to honour women’s achievements and advocate for gender equality.
It originated from early 20th-century labour movements in Europe and North America, with the date fixed in 1914 and later recognized by the United Nations in 1977.
