Former Lagos State Deputy Governor, Alhaja Sinatu Ojikutu, alongside other speakers including Mrs. Olufunke Fowler-Amba and Omolola Fakeye, has called for stronger unity among women, improved access to education for the girl child and greater participation of women in leadership positions.
The speakers made the call during the Inner Wheel District 911 celebration of the 2026 International Women’s Day and Empowerment Programme themed “Give To Gain,” held at the Rotary Centre in GRA, Ikeja, Lagos.
In her message delivered at the event, Ojikutu urged women to stop antagonising one another and instead build a culture of mutual support that will enable them to overcome barriers and attain greater heights in both public and private sectors.
She also emphasised the importance of quality education for women and the girl child, stressing that education remains a critical tool for competitiveness and leadership.
Represented by Dr. Maria Gomez, the former deputy governor noted that leadership positions are not reserved for any particular gender but for individuals who are prepared to serve with dedication and integrity.
She further urged women to intensify advocacy against war, child abuse, abusive relationships and corruption, noting that women are often the most affected by these societal challenges.
Ojikutu, who attended the programme as the Special Guest, however expressed optimism that the narrative surrounding the female child is gradually changing, noting that girls are now receiving greater recognition and opportunities compared to the past.
Speaking as the Guest Speaker at the event, Mrs. Olufunke Fowler-Amba expressed concern over the low level of female representation in Nigeria’s political space.
She noted that only four women currently occupy seats in the 109-member Senate, a development she described as a clear indication that women remain underrepresented in the nation’s decision-making process.
Fowler-Amba therefore urged women to consistently empower and uplift one another while remaining committed to the ideals and objectives of the Inner Wheel organisation.
According to her, giving should not be limited to financial assistance but should also include mentoring, teaching and volunteering within communities.
“Women must always be ready to give in different ways because genuine service to humanity has a lasting impact on society,” she said, while also advising participants not to look down on others.
Earlier in her welcome remarks, the Chairman of Inner Wheel District 911, Omolola Fakeye, said the organisation was proud to join women across the world in celebrating the resilience, strength and achievements of women.
She described International Women’s Day as a moment for reflection and collective action toward achieving gender equality and greater empowerment for women.
Fakeye also noted that although women have continued to break barriers in various sectors, many still face obstacles, particularly in education and economic opportunities.
She therefore called for sustained support for vulnerable women and policies that promote the welfare and advancement of women and the girl child.
The District Chairman also stressed the need for community-based initiatives that would support widows and young girls, urging members to initiate projects that address these challenges.
During a panel session coordinated by the immediate past Chairman of District 911, Mrs. Adenike Sodipo, a university lecturer, Prof. Oyenike Adeola Adeosun, observed that rivalry among women had in the past limited collaboration and mutual support.
She however noted that the situation is gradually changing, revealing that many women contributed significantly to her academic journey and professional development.
Also speaking, entrepreneur Ms. Temitope Kayode-Ojo emphasised the need for women to position themselves strategically to remain relevant and impactful in the era of Artificial Intelligence.
Similarly, the Head of Finance at Heirs Thermocool, Mrs. Mary Obadina, said resilience, passion and good working relationships had helped her succeed in a male-dominated field.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of empowerment support to seven widows, referred to as the “Women of Grace,” to assist them in strengthening their businesses.
The Inner Wheel Club, founded in 1924 and present in over 105 countries, focuses on promoting friendship and humanitarian service, particularly in support of vulnerable women and communities.
