International Women’s Day Nigeria | By SkyDNews Correspondent   International Women’s Day Nigeria 2026 was marked by strong advocacy as the Rosana Empowerment Foundation (REF) called for greater commitment to women empowerment, gender equality, and inclusive development.   The foundation joined the global community commemorating the annual event, International Women’s Day Nigeria, emphasizing the need to amplify women’s voices and expand opportunities that enable women and girls to reach their full potential in all sectors of society.  

Speaking at the occasion, Dr. Mrs. Peti Dung Zi, representing REF’s Board Chairman, highlighted the vital role of women in driving progress in families, education, healthcare, governance, and the economy. REF also urged government, civil society, and development partners to prioritize policies that empower women and girls.   According to her, empowering women is not only a matter of justice but also a strategic pathway to achieving sustainable development and social stability.   She stressed that when women are empowered through education, economic opportunities, and leadership roles, communities become stronger and more resilient.  

  Speaking to SkyDNews, representatives of the Rosana Empowerment Foundation (REF) reiterated the organization’s dedication to promoting the rights and dignity of women and girls. The foundation maintained that women’s empowerment remains central to sustainable development goals, particularly in areas of poverty reduction, health improvement, and community advancement.   They called on government institutions, community leaders, development partners, and civil society organizations to intensify collaborative efforts aimed at creating a supportive environment where women and girls can thrive without discrimination or barriers.   The foundation also highlighted the indispensable role women play in strengthening family structures and improving societal wellbeing. According to REF, women are key drivers in areas such as family health management, nutrition, childcare, and community development, making it essential to prioritize policies and initiatives that support their wellbeing and leadership.   Speaking at the event, the Gombe State Coordinator of REF, Mrs. Justina Mu’azu Adamu, emphasized the urgent need for increased investment in maternal and child nutrition, healthcare services, and women-focused economic empowerment programmes.  

  She noted that investing in women translates directly into stronger families and healthier communities.   Mrs. Adamu explained that many women, particularly in rural communities, still face barriers in accessing adequate healthcare services, financial resources, and capacity-building opportunities, stressing that deliberate action is required to close these gaps.   Also speaking at the occasion, Ejiogu Vitus Chibueze, who represented the Executive Director of the foundation, urged stakeholders and members of the public to use the celebration as an opportunity to renew commitments to advancing women’s rights and leadership opportunities.   He noted that organizations like REF remain committed to empowering women through advocacy, training programmes, community outreach initiatives, and partnerships that promote gender equity and social inclusion.   Speaking further to SkyDNews, he emphasized that women’s empowerment is essential for building a more inclusive society where everyone can contribute meaningfully to national development.  

  He encouraged policymakers, private sector actors, and development organizations to increase support for initiatives that equip women with skills, resources, and platforms necessary to succeed.   The Rosana Empowerment Foundation reaffirmed that it will continue to champion programmes that promote education, economic empowerment, healthcare access, and leadership opportunities for women and girls across communities.   The organization also called on citizens and institutions to move beyond symbolic celebrations and translate the spirit of International Women’s Day into concrete actions that uplift women and create equal opportunities for all.   Stakeholders at the International Women’s Day Nigeria 2026 celebration also emphasized the importance of empowering women to drive national development.   International Women’s Day is celebrated globally every March 8 to recognize the achievements of women while advocating for gender equality and the protection of women’s rights worldwide.     #InternationalWomensDay #IWD2026 #WomensEmpowerment #GenderEquality #WomenLeadership #WomenInDevelopment #RosanaEmpowermentFoundation #REFNigeria #WomenRights #EmpowerWomen #WomenInNigeria #WomenSupportWomen #WomenAndDevelopment #SkyDNews #SustainableDevelopment #WomenInLeadership #CommunityDevelopment #GirlChildEmpowerment #WomenInAfrica #EndGenderInequality      

REF Marks International Women’s Day 2026 with Strong Call for Women’s Empowerment and Gender Equality