IWD: Echoes From Nigerian Women

As the world celebrates the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) with the theme ‘Accelerate Action’, Ayodeji Ake chronicles messages from Nigerian women in different fields through virtual vox-pop.

Isaac A. Cherish

“My journey across media, fashion, and corporate landscapes has taught me that potential unreleased is potential wasted. To achieve the transformative change we desire, we must urgently accelerate action. We have the inherent ability to mold, build, and lead in any sector. I see a future where women take the front row in various sectors and hone it. The time for passive aspiration is over; let’s actively reshape our world and not be limited by words or negative perceptions about women in leadership.”

Omidiji Oluwadamilola

“As a Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) female officer at the Driver’s License Office, Women’s Day reminds me of the importance of empowering women in transportation. More women should be licensed drivers and decision-makers in the road safety corps. Women should never be made to think their presence is not welcomed in the corps, in fact, women should be encouraged to take more roles in leadership. I commit to educating and supporting them on this. As a fabric seller, I see women hustling daily, breaking barriers in business. Women should be supported in business—buying from women, mentoring young entrepreneurs, and demanding fair opportunities. Today, we celebrate our strength, but we must push forward for equality, safety, and economic empowerment every day.”

Alabi Oluwaseun

“As the sole woman in my department, I am frequently reminded of the challenges we face—our expertise questioned, our voices silenced, and our presence diminished. Yet, in these moments, I have learned to push back and unapologetically claim my space. As a UX designer, I’ve encountered unsolicited advice and scrutiny over my decisions. However, I’ve come to realize that my unique perspective is not only valuable but essential. I encourage you to never shrink yourself. Take up space, both physically and vocally. Share your ideas with confidence and assert your presence. Let’s celebrate our resilience as women and demonstrate to the world that we are more than enough.”

Sodimu Oluwatosin

“Women have the power to transform industries, and I am committed to driving that change in Africa’s jewelry manufacturing sector. Through Hannah Ephraim Jewelry, I am on the path to establishing a stainless steel jewelry manufacturing hub, not just for jewelry production but to train, mentor, and equip women with the skills to build sustainable businesses. By fostering entrepreneurship and sustainability, I aim to create opportunities for women to thrive in a male-dominated industry. I encourage women to invest in themselves, learn new skills, and step into spaces where women are underrepresented. Let’s take bold steps, break barriers, and accelerate action toward a future where women lead, innovate, and inspire change to create a future we all deserve.”

Tolulope Alabi

“As an innovative banker passionate about dual career growth in the banking system and as a fashion designer who cherishes creativity, I believe nothing is impossible to achieve. I remind myself of how far I’ve come and how personal growth excites me. Regardless of the challenges I face, I trust in my ability to conquer them. To all women: Never stop improving yourself. Seize every opportunity to move from a lower level to a higher one. Wherever you find yourself, be the best and make a difference. Remember, we bring life into the world, so let’s ensure it continues to thrive.”

Okolo Rosemary

“I’ve had the utmost privilege of meeting so many wonderful women. As a fashion designer and stylist, I also have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of self-expression. This Women’s Day, I urge women to ‘Accelerate Action’ by embracing their individuality and personal style. You are a woman, you are magic, you bring colour to the world, in any shade you are beautiful. Wear your confidence with pride, dare to be your true self regardless of society and its norms. We can be anything we want to be, we just have to take that step. Let’s also not forget to add that color we bring to the world to our own lives. HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY With love.”

Esther Oluwaferanmi Adegbulu

“As women, we are no strangers to challenges. Yet, we rise—stronger, bolder, and more determined. As a University of Lagos student and CEO of Emerald’s Kitchen, I juggle education and entrepreneurship daily. It’s tough, but giving up is never an option. I want to use my voice to empower women, reminding us that we are limitless. My dream is to give back globally, inspiring others to step into their power. This year’s theme, Accelerate Action, calls us to rise, own our space, and make our mark. The world needs our voices, vision, and unstoppable spirit.”