Commemorating the 2025 International Women’s day themed, ‘Accelerate Action-For ALL women and girls. Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” the African Women Lawyers Association(AWLA) Nigeria Chapter along with the Kwara State Ministry of Women Affairs, FIDA Kwara, and the Michael Ikoku Institute came together to advance a women agenda that promotes women equality, champions full rights and protection, fosters innovation, and catalyses partnership for stronger advocacy.

These events highlights the importance of collaboration between advocacy groups as crucial for sustainable results.

The activities began with road walk to market places in Ilorin to enlighten citizens on about women’s rights, gender based violence, female genital mutilation, among others.

Others activities were held at the Kwara state Banquet Hall.

In her profound speech, the AWLA Country Representative, Falilat Oluwatoyin Orire said the commemoration is a clarion call to step up efforts to champion women’s rights, confront the pushbacks, and enhance the efforts to dismantle systemic inequalities.

“Please permit me to stand on the already established protocol,” Mrs. Orire began, “Today marks a unique step in the history of celebration of woman’s day.

“The international Women’s Day (IWD) as we all known is a global celebration held annually on March 8th to commemorate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also serves as a call to action for accelerating women’s equality and addressing the challenges they face worldwide.

Going by this year’s theme, “Accelerate Action”, The African Women Lawyer Association(AWLA) emphasize the need for urgent action to address the deep-rooted barriers and biases that continue to limit women’s progress. Despite progress made in recent decades, women continue to face significant challenges, including restricted access to education and healthcare, increased gender violence, and economic instability.”

Orire continue md that “IWD has its roots in the women’s suffrage movement, with the first celebration held in 1911. Today, it is observed in over 100 countries, with events ranging from rallies and marches to conferences and workshops.

To commemorate IWD, individuals, organizations, and governments come together to:

• Celebrate women’s achievements: AWLA, Recognize and honor women’s contributions to society, economy, and politics.
• Raise awareness about women’s issues: Highlight the challenges women face, including gender-based violence, inequality, and discrimination.
• Promote women’s empowerment: Support initiatives that empower women, such as education, economic opportunities, and leadership development.

As we celebrate IWD, let us reaffirm our commitment to gender equality and accelerate action to create a more just and equitable world for all.

Thank you.”

For more information about AWLA Nigeria, please visit the website at https://awlanigeria.org