The Senator representing Anambra North Senatorial District, Dr. Tony Nwoye, has joined leaders across the world in celebrating women as the global community marks the 2026 International Women’s Day. According to a press statement issued by the DTN Media Centre, Nwoye commended women for their invaluable contributions to family life, national development and the stability of society, noting that their roles remain indispensable in shaping responsible communities.

The senator acknowledged the sacrifices and commitment of women, particularly in the home where they play a central role in the moral upbringing of children and the stability of families. Dr. Tony Nwoye observed that women possess remarkable strength and wisdom which enable them to effectively manage homes and nurture future generations, adding that their efforts deserve recognition and appreciation at all times.

The lawmaker also highlighted the important role women play in Nigeria’s political process, pointing out that their participation during elections demonstrates their commitment to strengthening democracy. Nwoye noted that women often mobilize themselves during electoral processes to support credible leadership, stressing that their collective voice continues to influence political outcomes and national development. He maintained that the importance of women in society cannot be overstated and that their contributions across different sectors merit continuous support and encouragement.

Dr. Tony Nwoye also reflected on the theme of this years International Women’s Day, Give to Gain, which underscores the idea that empowering women through opportunities, mentorship and support ultimately leads to broader social progress and shared prosperity. He added that when individuals, organizations and communities invest in women through education, advocacy and leadership opportunities, societies become stronger and more inclusive.

International Women’s Day is celebrated annually on March 8 to recognize the achievements of women and promote gender equality across the world. The global observance was officially recognized by the United Nations in 1975.

As the world marks International Women’s Day, the Initiative for Women’s Accelerated Development in Africa, INWOAD, has called for a significant increase in women’s participation in governance, describing the current representation as grossly inadequate for a democracy. The organisation made the call in a statement issued in Abuja to commemorate the 2026 International Women’s Day under the theme, Give to Gain.

The President and Founder of the Initiative for Women’s Accelerated Development in Africa, INWOAD, Evelyn Onyilo, in the statement, urged individuals, government, and organisations to contribute their quota by creating more opportunities for women through donations, skills acquisition and training, advocacy and intergenerational mentorship. The statement highlighted the power of reciprocity and support in achieving gender equality and sustainable development.

Evelyn Onyilo also called on major stakeholders and partners to accelerate support in upholding women’s rights and access to justice, especially as they relate to Sexual and Gender Based Violence. She stressed that most often, women and girls suffer injustice while perpetrators of such violence go scot free.

The President of INWOAD decried the low representation of women in Nigeria’s political space and said the situation whereby women are excluded in governance and elective positions is unacceptable and negates the principle of true democratic ideals. She specifically called on the National Assembly to pass the Special Seats Bill before it so as to bridge the gender gaps in politics.

INWOAD further called on governments at all levels to appoint more women into positions of governance as a mark of justice, equity and fairness which are the hallmarks of genuine democracy. The current situation where less than five percent of women are in the National Assembly is grossly inadequate and unacceptable for a country that prides itself as the giant of Africa, Evelyn Onyilo stated.

While congratulating all women on the 2026 International Women’s Day, Evelyn Onyilo enjoined women to be supportive of one another as the 2027 Elections draw nearer to ensure that women candidates are nominated and elected into various positions of authority.

Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, has called for the full inclusion of women in Nigeria’s political space, arguing that they deserve equal participation rather than special seats in the National Assembly.

The governor made the remarks on Tuesday at the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) Women Conference held in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital.

Diri said that while the agitation for reserved legislative seats for women may serve as a temporary measure, it ultimately risks reinforcing the perception of women as second-class citizens.

“I was told that the British High Commission is a major sponsor of this programme. I had the opportunity of meeting with the Deputy High Commissioner when she visited Bayelsa last week, and we discussed women participation in politics,” he said.

According to him, although the Deputy High Commissioner supported the idea of special seats for women, he only agreed in part.

“She believes that the agitation for special seats for women in the National Assembly is good. While I agreed with her, in part, as a temporary solution, I however largely disagree with the idea. My point is, I do not want our women to be treated as second-class citizens,” Diri stated.

The governor noted that countries such as the United Kingdom and the United States do not operate special parliamentary seats for women, yet women actively participate and hold key political offices.

“The women in Britain do not have special seats in parliament just as in America. The system flows and recognises them, and they participate fully in politics. Nobody talks about special seats or women beingunderprivilegedd there. We can do it in Nigeria,” he added.

Diri emphasized that Nigerian women have demonstrated competence across professions, including law, medicine, engineering, and academia, and should demand full political freedom rather than concessions.

“Our women are very intelligent and are active in politics. They are also very active in various professions. So, why are we asking for special considerations for them?” he queried.

He further identified what he described as a “structural deficiency” in Nigeria’s political framework, urging reforms that would create equal opportunities for women.

The governor also recounted his efforts to integrate more women into governance in Bayelsa State, including appointments into the state executive council and support for female candidates during elections.

“In 2023, I thought we would have about five women in the assembly, but when we went for the election, only two succeeded. So, I know what you are facing,” he said, while encouraging women in the Niger Delta to remain united and persistent in their political aspirations.

Earlier, the PANDEF National Women Leader, Rev. (Mrs.) Grace Ekong charged women to equip themselves with education, skills, and experience to effectively participate in politics.

She urged them to contribute meaningfully to regional development and advocate for infrastructure, environmental protection, and greater political representation for women in the Niger Delta.

The conference was attended by former First Lady, Patience Jonathan, Rivers State Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and PANDEF National Chairman, Dr. Boladei Igali, among other dignitaries and women groups from across the Niger Delta.