Every year on International Women’s Day (IWD), the world pauses to recognise the strength, achievements and contributions of women in different parts of society. It is a day dedicated not only to celebrating women but also to reflecting on the challenges they still face and the progress that has been made toward gender equality. From homes and classrooms to boardrooms and government offices, women continue to shape communities, economies and the future of nations. International Women’s Day therefore serves as a reminder that the journey toward equality is ongoing and requires collective effort.
The struggle for women’s rights dates back to the early 20th century when women began mobilising for fair wages, improved working conditions and voting rights. These movements eventually led to the establishment of International Women’s Day as a global platform for advocacy and solidarity. Today, the United Nations recognises the day as an opportunity to spotlight ongoing challenges facing women and girls around the world.
While progress has been made in areas such as education and political participation, structural inequalities remain widespread. In fact, global data from United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goal 5 shows that, 43.7 percent of married women still lack full decision-making power over their own sexual and reproductive health, while a report from UNICEF (March 2024 report) and the World Health Organization (WHO) says more than 230 million girls and women have undergone female genital mutilation in the countries where the practice is concentrated.
Across many regions, cultural norms, legal restrictions and economic inequality continue to shape the lives of women. In parts of the Middle East and North Africa, women’s participation in the workforce remains significantly lower than men’s, with men participating at nearly four times the rate of women in some countries. In sub-Saharan Africa and parts of the Middle East, child marriage remains a major concern, with nearly one in five young women globally married before the age of 18, limiting their education and economic opportunities.
Violence also remains a major threat: in South Africa alone, about 15 women are killed every day in gender-related violence, one of the highest femicide rates in the world. These realities highlight the continuing urgency of conversations around gender equality.
Beyond social and economic challenges, debates over women’s roles in leadership and religious institutions also remain contentious in many parts of the world. In Nigeria, for instance, conservative clergy from the Anglican Church have gathered in Abuja to discuss electing a rival leader to the newly appointed female Archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullally. The move reflects deep divisions within the church, with some conservative leaders insisting that only men should be consecrated as bishops. The debate emphasize how questions about women’s leadership and authority remain contested even within major global institutions.
Against this backdrop, the theme for International Women’s Day 2026, “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls,” carries particular significance. The theme calls for moving beyond symbolic commitments toward concrete actions that protect women’s rights, strengthen justice systems, and ensure equal opportunities. It emphasises that progress must reach every woman and girl, especially those facing multiple layers of discrimination due to poverty, conflict, geography or cultural barriers.
To explore what this theme means in practical terms, we reached out to accomplished women from different professional backgrounds. These women leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs and advocates shared their reflections on the realities women face today and the actions needed to create a fairer society. Through their experiences and insights, they highlight both the progress made and the work still required to ensure that women’s voices are not only heard but also shape policies and decisions that affect their lives.
Their responses offer a powerful reminder that while the global movement for women’s rights has achieved significant milestones, the struggle for equality continues. As the world marks International Women’s Day, their voices reinforce a simple truth: meaningful change happens when women are empowered to speak, lead and be part of the decisions that shape the future.
Dr. Loretta Oduware Ogboro-Okor, an Obstetrician and Gynecology Surgeon, says this year’s International Women’s Day (IWD) theme, “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls,” speaks to the responsibility of both women and the systems that govern society to drive real change. “Personally, for me it means a top-bottom and bottom-top approach,” she says. “It means me and the system, and a reverse – the system and I approach.” According to her, governments, institutions and policies must intentionally promote equity, while women must also push themselves forward. “Our society, our governments and policies at all levels must push equity in the system,” she explains. “But on our own as women, we must also push ourselves. We must be tenacious and take our places at the table, amplifying each other’s voices.” She stresses that representation is key to shaping policies that promote fairness. “It is only when we are at these tables that we can shape policies and governance that effect changes that sustain equity. Truth is, no one will invite us to these tables, so we must work and tenaciously push our way onto them. Think about it we cannot shake tables we are not even seated at.” Speaking on the rights of women and girls today, she points to persistent inequality. “What stands out the most is the lack of equity and the intersections that amplify our vulnerabilities, which in turn increases bias in the way societies see, receive and portray women.”
On actions that can help create a fairer society, Dr. Ogboro-Okor emphasizes the importance of education and skills development for girls. “Improved girl-child education is key at least basic education,” she says. “Skills acquisition should also be inclusive; it must not be only about certificates. What you do with your hands matters.” She adds that women must strive for excellence in whatever path they choose. “From hairdressing to fashion design to becoming professors of science, we must see the best in us and give the best of us.” She believes this mindset begins at home with how girls are raised. “What do parents tell their girl children daily?” she asks. “Tell them they are wonderfully and fearfully made and that they can be anything positive they want to be, using what lies between their ears.” She recalls that her father instilled this confidence in her from a young age. “My father told me every day, and it carried me through life’s travails, helping me make difficult decisions and stay the course with God on my side.” She also remembers a defining lesson he gave her: “The day my father made it clear that I did not need to be a good cook to be marriageable changed my perspective. He said I should learn to cook first for myself, and if I find a man I love and wish to pamper him with that skill, so be it.” According to her, that lesson taught her self-worth and independence. “He made me realise that I am no slave to anyone or anything, but that God made me to take charge of all things. I must be humble but not docile, vocal yet not loud, and able to interrogate processes without being rude.” Offering advice to young girls who look up to her, she says: “Believe in yourselves. Dream so big that it scares you. Be tenacious and trust that God who gave you the dream is already fixing the process of achieving it. God will always send helpers the question is, are you prepared, positioned and discerning enough to recognise them when they appear?”
Pastor Ngozi Nwonu, a Senior Pastor at the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), emphasizes that this year’s IWD theme, reminds her women and girls should never be treated as second-class citizens. “Girls and women should not be treated as second-class citizens. Rather, they should be seen as our counterparts, just like men,” she says. Reflecting on the rights of women and girls today, she points to the challenges many face, especially in some part of African countries. “What stands out to me most is what girls and women face in society,” she explains. “In my part of the world, the female child often has no share in her father’s property. Some are not even trained in school because their fathers believe it is a waste of money since she will eventually marry. Women are sometimes denied qualified employment simply because they are women, even when they could perform better than their male counterparts.” She also highlights abuse and societal silence in some marriages, noting, “In some marriages, women face different kinds of abuse and are expected to stay silent to keep their homes. In other cases, when a female child is raped, families may cover it up in the name of protecting the family name.”
Pastor Nwonu stresses that governments, society, and even churches need to actively protect and empower women. “Even in some churches today, women cannot pastor, which is not biblical. Priscilla, Phoebe and other women of God worked closely with Apostle Paul, yet many today are restricted to the altar,” she says. Drawing from these realities, she offers advice to young girls: “Never allow any form of intimidation to weigh you down. Keep soaring higher, have bigger dreams, and ensure that those dreams come to reality.” According to her, recognizing women as equal partners and providing them with opportunities to lead, learn, and grow is central to creating a society where justice and rights are upheld for all. “We must see women as capable, equal, and deserving of every opportunity to thrive,” she adds, emphasizing that action is required at every level home, church, and society to make this a reality.
Dr. Eme A. Dada, a seasoned economist, academic, and Deputy Director at the Central Bank of Nigeria, explains this year’s IWD theme, is a global call to turn commitments into reality. “The theme reminds me that advancing the rights of women and girls requires sustained commitment, effective justice systems, and deliberate action to build a more equitable and inclusive world,” she says. According to her, it emphasizes protecting the fundamental rights of women and girls and ensuring justice through fair institutions, policies, and social systems. “Access to justice, protection from discrimination and violence, and equal opportunities remain critical to achieving meaningful progress,” she explains. On the current state of women’s rights, she notes, “What stands out most today is that while significant progress has been made, many women and girls still face barriers to equal opportunity, safety, and voice. Protecting these rights requires not only laws and policies, but continuous commitment, empathy, and collective action so every woman and girl can live with dignity, opportunity, and respect.”
On creating a fairer society, Dr. Dada stresses deliberate action and mindset change. “We need equal access to quality education and economic opportunities, stronger laws to protect women from discrimination and violence, and greater participation of women in leadership and decision-making,” she says. She also underlines the importance of fostering a culture of respect, inclusion, and fairness so every woman and girl can reach her potential. Sharing her personal journey, she recalls, “Early in my career, I found myself in rooms where there were very few women, and expectations were often higher. Rather than see it as a barrier, I saw it as a responsibility to be well prepared and to let the quality of my work speak for itself.” That experience reinforced her belief that competence, confidence, and integrity are key, and it strengthened her commitment to mentoring younger women. Her advice to girls and young women is clear: “Find a mentor. Believe in your potential and never limit your aspirations. Pursue excellence, remain disciplined, and continue to invest in learning and personal growth. Most importantly, allow God to lead you, value relationships, and open doors for other women and girls to thrive. With courage, integrity, and perseverance, there is no limit to the heights you can reach.”
Nkechi Loveth Ezere, a fashion designer, affirms this year’s IWD theme, speaks to the need to recognize the struggles women and girls face across the world and take deliberate steps to address them. According to her, “this year’s theme is about recognizing the struggles women and girls face globally and taking concrete actions to address them. It is about equality, empowerment and justice for women and girls.” Reflecting on the rights of women today, she said what stands out the most is the wide gap between what women deserve and what they actually experience in society. “What stands out most is the gap between what women deserve and what they often get, especially in opportunities and treatment. We have women changing things in tech and politics, yet many of them are still fighting for equal pay and for an end to violence against women,” she said.
Speaking on the kind of actions needed to create a fairer society for women and girls, Ezere stressed the importance of education, awareness and policy reforms. “Education is very important people need to be educated about the rights women have. Awareness also matters, spreading information about women’s struggles so that people understand and care about it,” she said, adding that supportive policies and stronger backing for women-led initiatives would also help women progress. Sharing an experience that shaped her perspective as a woman, she pointed to societal expectations placed on women. “I realized how society often expects women to behave in certain ways or follow certain roles, and those expectations can limit women. For instance, society may expect a woman to focus only on family instead of a career, or to remain polite instead of speaking up when she is hurt.” She encouraged young girls not to allow such expectations define them. “To young girls, I would say dream big and do not allow anyone to dim your light or tell you otherwise.”
Dupe Ajayi, a Community Orientation and Mobilization Officer (COMO) with the National Orientation Agency, note that this year’s IWD theme, speaks directly to the need for fairness and equal opportunities for women in society. “To me, it means equal access to the social justice system in the society,” she says. “It includes equal rights to opportunities, health, resources and fair treatment, while also bridging the gap that exists between genders.” Ajayi adds that the theme also calls for a stronger commitment to gender equity in all areas of life. Speaking on what stands out most when discussing the rights of women and girls, she stresses the importance of education and safety. “Education and safety are paramount,” she explains. “When a girl or woman is educated, a whole nation is educated. It becomes a chain that spreads and grows unstoppably.” She adds that safety is equally important because it gives women the freedom to express themselves without fear or intimidation in different professions and levels of leadership, while also helping to eliminate violence and discrimination against women.
Highlighting actions that can help create a fairer society for women and girls, Ajayi points to the need for structural and social changes. “There should be a total end to discrimination against women in all sectors of society,” she says. “We also need increased female representation in leadership positions having a woman president is not a crime.” She also advocates free education and improved access to educational services for the girl child, especially in rural communities, as well as expanded healthcare systems that allow women and girls in remote areas to access medical services easily. Reflecting on an experience that shaped her perspective as a woman, Ajayi recalls how her professional journey transformed her outlook. “When I was younger, I used to think women could not thrive in gatherings dominated by men, especially intellectually,” she says. “But my job as a Community Orientation and Mobilization Officer changed that mindset.” She recounts being posted to a local government area where she was the only woman among council members, royal fathers and cabinet members making decisions for community development. “It took courage, determination, commitment and focus for me to stand up and speak, offering suggestions I believed could make a difference,” she says. “That experience shaped my perspective and showed me that women can thrive and even excel in any field when they are given the opportunity.”
Olusola Agbalu, a Professional Accountant and Broadcast Journalist, points out that the theme of this year’s IWD theme, begins with recognizing the basic entitlements of women and girls in society. “Rights, to me, begin with the fundamental entitlement of the girl child and women to education at every level,” she says. “Every girl deserves the opportunity to learn, grow and pursue knowledge without barriers.” She also believes women have the right to dignity in how they present themselves. “No woman should be forced to dress in a sexually suggestive way simply to attract customers for someone else’s business,” she explains. “For instance, a service girl working in a bar where drinks are served should not be compelled to dress indecently simply to satisfy commercial interests.” Speaking on justice, Agbalu says it means correcting the wrongs done to women and girls and ensuring that the law protects them. “When a child or a woman is abused, justice must be pursued through the courts and the law must speak clearly in their defense,” she says. She also points to the double standards women often face in society. “For example, when a woman leaves her marriage because her husband cheats on her, she is often condemned, yet when a man leaves his marriage because his wife cheats, he is usually supported and sympathized with. True justice means judging both men and women by the same standards.”
According to her, action towards building a fairer society must begin with equality and inclusion. “Action means treating girls and boys, and women and men, with equality. The same rules and laws should guide everyone’s conduct,” she says. She adds that women must also be empowered to take part in decisions that affect their families and their future. “For me, this includes having the ability and opportunity to make important decisions that benefit my children, such as choosing the right schools for them from primary through secondary school and even to university.” Reflecting on her own journey, Agbalu says her perspective as a woman has been shaped by balancing career and motherhood. “Combining a career with the responsibilities of managing a home and raising children from infancy to young adulthood has given me a deeper understanding of the strength, patience and wisdom women must develop,” she says. “Motherhood and work together require balance, sacrifice and resilience.” She believes women can continue to grow while raising children and remain relevant enough to guide them. “Even while raising children through different stages of life, a woman can continue to grow, learn and stay relevant enough to guide and advise them in ways that connect with their generation.” Offering a message to girls and women, she says: “Take education seriously. Education is light. It opens the door to a world of limitless opportunities.”
Eleleonu Esther Chimezie, a farmer and businesswoman, signal that this year’s IWD theme, speaks to the freedom for women to live, express themselves, and pursue opportunities without societal judgment or restriction. “It means to me that a woman can express, live, and do things like the other gender without being questioned or constantly reminded to ‘be a woman,’” she says. “It also means that a woman’s voice is heard when she cries out, without feeling ashamed or silenced by society.” When asked what stands out most about the rights of women and girls today, she emphasizes the need to treat them as human beings, deserving of respect and fairness. “The ability to treat women and the girl child as human,” she says, “is what matters most.” She believes that actions to create a fairer society should start at home. “It should begin with the immediate family,” she explains. “Parents must teach their children equally, without expecting the girl child alone to do the house chores while the boy child is excused.”
Reflecting on experiences that shaped her perspective, Chimezie shares lessons from observing family dynamics. “A moment that shaped my perspective as a woman was when I saw my in-law doing many things in the house, providing for the family and taking care of its needs without worrying about who would talk down on her,” she says. “I also saw another family where the wife was the breadwinner, yet the husband could not even lift a cup of water for her, claiming he is the man of the house. The woman lived in pain and regret.” From these experiences, she learned the importance of raising children without gender biases. “We parents have to start early in training our children equally, because a peaceful home leads to a peaceful society,” she says. Her advice to young girls is empowering and practical: “Do not be lazy and wait for a man or husband to provide for you. Start up and work. Prioritize yourself first. Do not allow marriage or anything else to make you give up your dreams. Pursue your dreams, and you will conquer.”
Dr. Okunseinde Adesola Felicia, a National Officer of the Ogun State Female Artisans, indicates this year’s IWD theme, is a strong call for women and girls to demand fairness and accountability. “To me, it means this is the time for justice and action for every girl child, whether adult or young,” she says. “It is time for women to speak up and get justice. Enough of keeping quiet and allowing our matters to be swept under the carpet.” Reflecting on the progress made in the struggle for women’s rights, she says there are signs of improvement. “We are getting there gradually,” she explains. “Women are more educated now and more exposed, and they are beginning to understand what rights truly mean in real terms.” However, she emphasizes that the struggle for women’s rights should not be seen as a competition with men. “It is not about competing with men but about knowing your worth as a woman,” she says. “There is nothing a man can do that a woman cannot do better. A woman’s right is not limited she owns her world, she owns her home, she owns her children and everything around her. There should be freedom in every angle, no limitations and no boundaries to what she can achieve, while still having her family by her side.”
Speaking on the kind of actions that can help create a fairer society for women and girls, Dr. Okunseinde stresses the importance of awareness and empowerment. “We must create enough awareness through campaigns and advocacy that support women,” she says. “Women also need to be empowered financially so they can become who they truly want to be.” She also shares a personal experience that shaped her perspective as a woman. “When I lost my aunt who was emotionally abused by her husband, it changed my thinking,” she recalls. “She worked so hard, but in the end she did not reap all that she had sown.” According to her, that painful experience left a lasting lesson. “Her last breath shaped my mind,” she says. “It taught me to be contented, to stay focused and to always be whom I truly am.” She adds a message for women and girls striving to find their voice and purpose. “Be who you are and do not stop until you achieve your goals in life,” she says. “Always strive to be at your best.”
Afolake Abegunde, a Business Administration Executive at Cartracker Nigeria, cite this year’s IWD theme, as a call to move beyond words and take responsibility for creating real change. “To me, this theme is a powerful reminder that advocating for women is not only about recognition, but about ensuring that women and girls truly experience their rights in everyday life,” she says. She explains that rights mean protection and equal opportunity, justice means that when a woman is wronged the system stands firmly for her, and action requires that society, governments, institutions, and individuals actively work to create an environment where women are safe, respected, and empowered. “Personally, it speaks to my belief that every woman and girl deserves dignity, fairness, and the freedom to pursue her dreams without fear or limitation,” she adds. Reflecting on the current state of women’s rights, she says, “What stands out to me the most is how often women still have to fight for things that should naturally be theirs. Many women continue to face unfair treatment in different areas of life.” She highlights the plight of single mothers, saying, “One issue that deeply concerns me is the number of single mothers who are left to raise children alone because some men refuse to take responsibility after fathering a child. This is not just a personal issue. It is a societal one.”
Speaking on actions that can help create a fairer society for women and girls, Abegunde emphasizes the need for both structural reforms and community support. “Creating a fairer society requires intentional action from both institutions and individuals,” she says. “First, there must be stronger laws that protect women and ensure accountability, especially in cases where men abandon their responsibilities.” She also stresses the importance of education and mentorship. “When girls are taught to believe in themselves, pursue education, and develop strong values, they are better equipped to shape their futures,” she says. She adds that women must support one another, because unity amplifies voices and drives meaningful change. Sharing how her experiences as a mother and professional shaped her perspective, she says, “Being a mother has strengthened my awareness of the need to build a safer and fairer world for the next generation of girls. It has made me more conscious of the importance of justice, accountability, and opportunity for women.” Her advice to young girls is empowering: “Believe in yourself and the greatness within you. Do not allow society to define your worth or limit your dreams. Stand together with other women, support one another, and refuse to accept any path that diminishes your dignity. Dream big, prioritize yourself first, and pursue your dreams and you will conquer.”
Adewumi Gbadebo, a corporate professional, state that this year’s International Women’s Day theme, carries profound meaning. “Its message goes beyond gender; it speaks to the fundamental idea of human rights and collective responsibility,” she says. “When individuals truly understand their rights as human beings, they are less likely to advocate only for themselves. Instead, they become voices for justice and fairness for everyone around them.” She emphasizes that the words Rights, Justice, and Action are more than ideals they are a call to responsibility. “They remind us that each person has a role to play in shaping a more equitable society. Being aware of injustice is not enough; we must also be willing to act and become change agents within our communities, workplaces, and institutions.” Gbadebo is encouraged by the growing awareness around gender equality, noting that education and empowerment of the girl child are gaining increasing commitment globally. “Education remains one of the most powerful tools for breaking barriers and creating opportunities for future generations,” she says. She adds that building a fair society requires a shift in mindset. “We must begin to see one another first as human beings, deserving of dignity, respect, and equal opportunity. When we treat others with the same fairness and consideration we desire for ourselves, we lay the foundation for a society where everyone can thrive.”
Reflecting on personal experiences that shaped her perspective as a woman, Gbadebo highlights the transformative power of motherhood. “One of the most transformative experiences for many women is childbirth. One moment, you are pregnant; the next, you are holding a new life in your arms,” she says. “From that moment onward, every day becomes a new journey of responsibility, love, and growth.” She explains that parenthood does not end as children grow older. “Even as they become adults, a parent’s concern and care remain constant. The experience becomes even more complex when there is more than one child, as a mother strives to give each child equal love, attention, and guidance.” She adds, “Childbirth and motherhood often redefine a woman’s identity and strength. Despite the challenges and sacrifices, many women willingly embrace the experience repeatedly in their journey to build and nurture a family. It is a testament to resilience, courage, and unconditional love.” Gbadebo believes that women deserve not only recognition but consistent celebration. “Their contributions to families, communities, and society at large shape the world in meaningful ways. International Women’s Day serves as a reminder that acknowledging and supporting women is not a one-day event, but an ongoing commitment to justice, equality, and shared humanity.”
Oluwaseyi Elizabeth Jimoh, a poet, multimedia award-winning journalist, freelance reporter with Radio Nigeria Positive FM, and founder of Jobeth Media, describes International Women’s Day as a significant moment to recognize the value and contributions of women. “International Women’s Day is a special day celebrated on March 8, and it recognizes the fact that women are special. Their uniqueness should not sideline them; rather, it should make society accommodate them instead of demeaning them,” she says. Reflecting on the theme, Jimoh breaks down its meaning from her perspective. “Rights are the freedoms and protections every human being is entitled to, and women and girls must also enjoy those freedoms,” she explains. “These rights allow people to live with dignity and fairness rights to life, education, and freedom of speech.” However, she notes that many women still face silence and marginalization in society. “In our contemporary time, women are often silenced and marginalized,” she says, pointing to online harassment and misogyny women sometimes face when speaking out against issues such as sexual violence. On justice, she stresses fairness and accountability. “Justice means people are treated equally according to the law and wrong actions are punished,” she says. “But can we truly say women receive justice when they are harmed? Often, the answer is no.” She adds that action is the most critical part of the theme. “Action means doing something rather than just talking about it. Policies and statements are not enough if they are not implemented in real life.” She also references global concerns about gender inequality. “Reports have shown that women and girls continue to experience discrimination that affects their health, access to education, employment, and financial resources,” she says. “So when I think about this theme personally, I believe women’s rights to education, health, life, and protection must not only exist on paper but must be implemented, and justice must be served equally.”
Speaking about what stands out most regarding the rights of women and girls today, Jimoh points to the persistent gap in equality. “One thing that stands out to me is that no nation has completely closed the legal gap between men and women,” she says. “Right now, women have only about 64 percent of the legal rights that men hold worldwide.” She highlights workplace discrimination, especially around maternity and career progression. “Imagine a woman who takes maternity leave to give birth and care for a child, and when she returns her male counterpart has been promoted simply because she was away,” she says. “Why should a woman’s career suffer because she carried and nurtured another life?” According to her, women often carry additional responsibilities yet face limitations in pay and opportunities. “Being a woman comes with added responsibilities, and that should never be a reason to diminish our pay or professional growth,” she says.
On actions needed to build a fairer society, she emphasizes equal pay and equal opportunities. “Women and girls should receive equal pay for equal work and should not be sidelined because of biological responsibilities such as childbirth,” she explains, adding that governments, policymakers, and institutions must ensure supportive policies and fair workplace structures. Reflecting on what shaped her perspective as a woman, Jimoh draws inspiration from her faith. “When God created the world, He said everything was good, but later He said it was not good for man to be alone,” she says. “That moment reminds me that women were brought into the scene with purpose to provide help, insight, and solutions.” She believes women should recognize their strength and purpose in society. “We are not inferior or second-class citizens. We were created to contribute meaningfully and bring solutions where they are needed.” Her advice to young girls is rooted in identity and purpose. “Look up to your Creator and discover the purpose for which you were made,” she says. “Do not allow society to define your identity or limit your potential. Understand that you came into the world to fulfill important responsibilities and to help build a better society.”
Comfort Omolayo Okunola, an Early Life Development Coach, views this year’s theme, as a strong call to protect and empower young girls, especially those whose voices are often unheard. “This theme is a call to deepen our commitment to protecting, empowering, and uplifting every girl,” she says. Drawing from her experience as a Girls’ Early Growth and Development Coach and early birth educator for more than a decade, she explains that the theme reinforces her belief that every girl deserves a supportive environment. “Every girl deserves a safe space where she can thrive, learn, and build resilience,” she says. According to her, safeguarding and child protection should never be treated as optional responsibilities. “Safeguarding and child protection are not optional; they are rights,” she stresses. “Justice for girls means they grow in environments free from abuse, silence, and fear, while action means we step forward every day to protect their emotional, physical, and psychological well-being.” She notes that one issue that stands out strongly to her is the continued struggle many girls face in accessing basic safety and dignity. “Girls are still fighting for safety and dignity in spaces where they should already be protected,” she says. “The right to education, bodily autonomy, the right to be heard, and the right to feel safe are still not guaranteed for many girls around the world.” From her daily work mentoring young girls, she has seen the impact of guidance and support. “Early guidance, mentorship, and a protective environment can completely transform a girl’s life,” she says. “Their rights must go beyond paper; they must be embedded in our homes, schools, communities, and systems.”
Speaking on actions that can help build a fairer society for women and girls, Okunola emphasizes the need for intentional and consistent efforts. “A fairer society begins with strengthening child protection systems so girls are safe at home, in school, online, and in society,” she says. She also highlights the importance of building resilience early and educating those responsible for raising children. “We must teach girls resilience so they can advocate for themselves, and we must train parents, caregivers, and educators on safeguarding, emotional intelligence, and positive discipline.” According to her, creating safe spaces for girls to speak freely and learn leadership skills is equally important. “We must challenge harmful norms that silence girls and support mentorship programmes that show them what is possible,” she adds. Reflecting on an experience that shaped her perspective, she recalls witnessing a young girl’s transformation through encouragement and guidance. “I once saw a young girl who was timid and unsure of herself become confident and bold simply because an adult believed in her and listened to her,” she says. “That moment reminded me that girls do not lack potential; sometimes they only lack protection and someone who believes in them.” That experience strengthened her resolve to support girls on their journey. Offering a message to young girls who look up to her, she says: “You are valuable. You are capable. And you have the right to dream boldly.” She adds, “Protect your heart, your mind, and your future. Surround yourself with people who see the greatness in you, even before you see it in yourself. Never let fear silence your voice, and never stop believing that you are worthy of respect, safety, and opportunity.”
Taken together, the reflections from these women show that the conversation about women’s rights is not just about policies or annual celebrations, but about everyday realities. Their stories point to the progress that has been made, while also reminding us that many women and girls still face barriers that limit their opportunities, safety and voices. From education and leadership to justice and economic independence, each of them emphasizes that real change requires consistent effort from families, communities, institutions and governments alike.
As International Women’s Day is marked this year, their words serve as both encouragement and a challenge. Encouragement for girls and women to believe in their worth, pursue their dreams and support one another, and a challenge to society to create environments where those dreams can truly thrive. When women are given the space to speak, lead and contribute, their voices do more than inspire change they help shape a fairer and more inclusive future for everyone.