Women of the Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union (RATTAWU) under the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Women’s Committee have marked this year’s International Women’s Day (IWD) with a call for women to support one another in giving every child a chance towards a better future.
At the celebration in Lagos, leaders of RATTAWU, the NLC Women’s Committee and other labour organisations said justice and fairness for women will only have real meaning if women share what they have, whether time, skills or resources, to support children and those around them.
They agreed that these small, everyday acts of support between women form the foundation for lasting progress.
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The lead discussant, Yeye Okenla, urged women to be whole and grounded in values while encouraging entrepreneurship among the younger generation.
“Modesty matters. You don’t need to expose any part of your body to feel beautiful,” she said.
Prioritising Health
Okenla explained that the act of giving goes beyond charity or money, noting that it also includes women prioritising their health, wellbeing and education.
She also urged women to reject voter apathy.
“Go out and vote, present yourselves to be voted for, and remain law-abiding citizens of this country,” she said.
Delivering her keynote address, the NLC Lagos Council Chairperson, Sessi Funmi, said the work of women demands collective responsibility. She noted that women continue to break barriers, challenge stereotypes and redefine leadership.
Policies That Protect
Sessi described women as the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, yet noted that many still face low pay and limited leadership opportunities. She called for policies that protect, empower and uplift women.
“We must ensure we are present and our voices are heard… Women should not only show up but also be given equal opportunity to thrive,” she said.
Legitimate Means of Income
The NLC chair urged unions to champion the dignity and welfare of women and encouraged women to seek legitimate ways of improving their income.
She praised women who acquired vocational skills within three days of training and highlighted a retiree who had already begun earning from her new craft.
Sessi said the council would seek donations to help more women expand their small businesses and grow as entrepreneurs.
Diligence and Courage
Also speaking, the Chairperson of the NLC Women’s Committee, Lagos Council, Olabisi Oladipupo, advocated equal opportunities for women and girls in all spheres of life.
She encouraged women to be diligent and courageous, commending them for enhancing the effectiveness of their unions in various capacities.
The theme of the event was “Rights, Justice and Action for All Women and Girls: Give to Gain”. The event was held at the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) Pavilion, Ikeja, Lagos, South-West Nigeria.