The Convener of the Girl Child Education Advancement Initiative Foundation, Olori Adetokunbo Akinrera, on the special occasion of International Women’s Day, IWD, 2025, joins the global community in celebrating the resilience, strength and invaluable contributions of women peace building and societal progress.
This year’s theme according to Olori Akinrera, Inspire Inclusion, resonates deeply with our mission of empowering women, fostering unity and advocating for gender equality in conflict-affected regions. Women are not just victims of violence and displacement, they are frontline peace builders, community leaders, and architects of a more just and equitable society.
“For us as women to get to the point of equality and acceptance of our gender in all spheres of life, we must see other women as extensions of ourselves and ourselves as part of every other woman out there. It is then we can achieve the inclusiveness we so crave for.
“We believe that when women are included in decision making processes, societies thrive, and sustainable peace becomes a reality.
“Together, let us inspire inclusion and work towards a society where peace and equality are not just aspirations but lived realities for all.
“It goes both ways, the women who have the capacity and capabilities should seek power in the political sector to make an impact in our society. On the other hand, women who are less inclined not because they are inferior but because they are not interested should be empowered so that their impact is also felt in other areas of our society”.
According to Olori Adetokunbo Akinrera who is the wife to a prominent traditional ruler in Osun State, the Olubosin of Ifetedo Kingdom, “As we celebrate the Women’s Day, I call on governments, civil society and community leaders to prioritize policies that enhance women’s participation in governance, security and economic development. It is only through inclusive leadership that we can build a future where every woman and girl has the opportunity to reach her full potential.
“We celebrate the courage of women who continue to break barriers despite adversity. Your voices matter, your dreams are valid and your contributions are essential to shaping a peaceful and prosperous world.
“Despite Nigerian women’s historical and ongoing contributions to national development, they remain systematically undermined, subjected to unchecked violence and forced to learn in fear in many instances”.
Olori Akinrera added further that, “I am strongly against any form of abuse of women by some men. It’s inhumane and totally against every moral standard. It is a war that can only be won when we, as women, are ready to put a stop to it, together as one”.
