The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) proudly joined the global community in celebrating the 2024 International Women’s Day (IWD) on Friday, March 8, emphasizing the importance of gender equality and women’s rights.
The International Women’s Day, observed annually on March 8, has been a platform for recognizing and celebrating the accomplishments of women worldwide for over a century. The day serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to create a more equitable and inclusive world.
The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day, “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,” accompanied by the hashtag #InspireInclusion, calls for collective action to dismantle barriers, challenge stereotypes, and foster environments where all women are valued and respected.
The ‘Inspire Inclusion’ theme encourages the acknowledgement of the diverse perspectives and contributions of women from all walks of life, especially those from marginalized communities, as highlighted by the IWD official site.
In alignment with the United Nations’ campaign, the ACCI actively participated in the global call to prioritize the advancement of women in business, recognizing the pivotal role they play in fostering economic growth.
Chief Emeka Obegolu, SAN, PhD, the President of ACCI, expressed the Chamber’s unwavering commitment to supporting the growth and economic development of women adding that the establishment of the Women in Business Trade Group within the chamber for the provision of training and capacity-building initiatives for women in business.
“The Business, Entrepreneurship, and Skill Technology Centre, housed within the ACCI, contributes to building the international standards capacity of women.
“As a tribute to the resilience, support, and determination of women in building strong homes and societies, ACCI celebrates the remarkable achievements of women both within the chamber and globally,” he stated.
Mr. Agabaidu Chukwuemeka Jideani, the Director General of ACCI, joined in the celebration, expressing admiration for the women associated with the Chamber and worldwide while also emphasising that with continuous support, women will undoubtedly excel and contribute significantly to building a better society.
He urged that the celebration of International Women’s Day should extend beyond a single day, becoming a continuous effort to boost the morale of women in their respective fields.
The Vice President of Women Development and Gender Matters, Barr. (Mrs) Obiageli Nwosu, emphasized that every 8th of March is an important day to celebrate the remarkable contributions, achievements, challenges, and resilience of women all over the world. She also highlighted the significance of this year’s theme, “Inspire and Inclusion.”
According to her, women need to find their space in order to positively impact the world, as they are natural builders and nurturers of life.
In addition, the Chairman of the Women in Business Trade Group of ACCI, Mrs Chioma Njoku, stated that the overarching theme of International Women’s Day 2024 echoes the call for inclusive inspiration. She emphasized that this year’s campaign aims to bring attention to critical issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and the eradication of violence against women.
Mrs Njoku called upon everyone to join women in uniting for the collective effort to champion women’s rights and foster inclusivity. She expressed that every action, no matter how big or small, contributes to the broader movement. She encouraged individuals to make International Women’s Day their own by actively supporting and advancing the cause of women worldwide. “Together, let’s fight for a more inclusive and equitable future.”
On behalf of the Executive Council and all members of ACCI, the President extends warm wishes to all women, expressing hopes for a happy International Women’s Day.
Olayemi John-Mensah
ACCI Media/Strategy Officer
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