By Mercy Akuba
In commemoration of International Women’s Day (IWD), the HapiWify Project in collaboration with the Conference of Non-Governmental Organizations (CONGOs) has celebrated women leaders making significant impacts in the developmental space, as stakeholders called for sustained recognition of their contributions.
Speaking on the theme “Breaking Barriers,” which aligns with this year’s IWD theme, “Rights, Justice, Action for All,” the first female President of CONGOs, Mrs. Daisy Abioia, highlighted the vital role women play in national development.
Mrs. Abiola noted that women in leadership have demonstrated remarkable sagacity, mental alertness, and resilience in handling sensitive positions.
She cited notable figures such as Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti and Margaret Ekpo as examples of women who paved the way for female leadership in Nigeria.
According to her, women—particularly those leading organizations—have continued to show strong capacity in leadership roles.
She commended the founder of the HapiWify Project for partnering with CONGOs to recognize women advocating for rights and dignity, urging her to sustain the initiative.
In his remarks, the President of CONGOs, Dr. Bartholomew Akoudo, congratulated women in the developmental space who champion the rights of women, girls, and vulnerable groups.
He emphasized that women leading non-governmental organizations often work tirelessly without adequate recognition, adding that this year’s celebration aims to spotlight their sacrifices and achievements in repositioning society for a better future. He encouraged them to continue their impactful work.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon. Eugena Abdullahi, represented by Dr. Mercy Bello Abdul, called on women to develop themselves internationally and seek exposure to transformative information.
She stressed the importance of passion in achieving meaningful results and urged organizers to sustain advocacy for women’s inclusion in leadership positions.
The founder of HapiWify Project, Mrs. Awunil Eghosasere explained that the initiative was inspired by her experience as a full-time housewife, which motivated her to champion the cause of women’s inclusion in decision-making spaces.
“Today, we are not just observing a date on the calendar; we are declaring that women have a right to sit at the table of power,” she said.
She noted that despite their immense contributions, women in the NGO sector are often under-recognized.
“These women do the hardest work—fixing broken systems and building foundations where none existed. Justice means giving credit where it is due,” she added.
Mrs. Awunil Eghosasere further stated that the platform was created to document and spotlight the contributions of women leaders in the NGO sector, including grassroots advocates and community builders.
Also speaking, the Edo State Chairperson of the Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Princess Francisca Elena Esq., commended the organizers for celebrating women who are shaping society.
She, however, noted that many women and girls still face inequality, violence, discrimination, and exclusion from decision-making spaces.
She called on government to strengthen laws protecting women and girls, while urging institutions to create enabling environments for women to lead and thrive.
The panel session highlighted challenges faced by women in business and investment.
Dr. Angela Ijoema Ogbu, founder of the Right and Resilience for Gender Advocacy Foundation, emphasized that women remain central to developmental efforts and as such should be given adequate spotlight.
Mrs. Ugiagbe Uwayewum Josephine also advised women to develop their skills and ensure they have sustainable means of livelihood.
The event featured the presentation of certificates of recognition to outstanding women leaders in various organizations.
Honourees included Dr. Irene Akhidemo,, Mrs Daisy Abioia Princess Francisca Elena, Mrs. Blessing Eromo, and Mrs. Ani Umoru, among others.