The Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) of Nigeria has called for greater investment in women’s education, economic opportunities and leadership development as it marked its 120th anniversary.
Speakers at the anniversary celebration stressed the need to translate advocacy for women’s empowerment into practical action, including mentorship and opportunities that enable women and girls to contribute meaningfully to national development.
The event, held at the Archbishop Akinde Conference Centre in Bariga, Lagos, had the theme, “Empowering Women and Serving Our Communities.”
Representing the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, Mrs Oyinda Ogunsanwo-Emmanuel commended the association for its longstanding contributions to the welfare of women and girls across Nigeria.
She said the organisation’s 120-year history demonstrated the importance of faith-driven service and community development, urging stakeholders to build a society where women have the skills, opportunities and support to thrive.
Chairperson of the occasion, Justice Raliat Bukola Adebiyi, praised generations of YWCA leaders for their dedication to women’s advancement, noting that the association’s commitment to education, leadership and social responsibility remained relevant.
She urged women to build on the organisation’s legacy by supporting younger generations and promoting sustainable development.
In her keynote address, Professor Olugbemisola Mopelola Ọmoegun challenged women to embrace leadership while remaining committed to service and community transformation.
She said empowerment should go beyond occupying influential positions to creating opportunities for others through education, economic advancement and mentorship.
“Empowerment is not merely about occupying positions of influence; it is about creating pathways for others to rise,” she said.
The anniversary also featured the presentation of Awards of Impact to women recognised for their contributions to leadership and community development.
Among the honourees were Chief Mrs Olubisi Osinbajo, mother of former Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, and the family of Ajasin in Ondo State, represented by Mrs Jumoke Anifowose.
Speaking at the event, YWCA Nigeria’s National President, Mrs Faith Jadu, urged members to preserve the association’s values and strengthen their commitment to developing women and girls as transformative leaders.
She said the anniversary was an opportunity to reflect on the organisation’s achievements while renewing its commitment to service.
“Nigeria needs what YWCA carries, women of integrity, women of skill, women of faith who will lead in the home, the church, the marketplace and in the nation,” Jadu said.
Founded in 1906, YWCA Nigeria has promoted the welfare of women and girls through education, skills development, leadership training and community outreach.
The anniversary brought together faith leaders, women advocates and other dignitaries to celebrate the association’s legacy and renew calls for greater opportunities for women and girls.
Participants reaffirmed their commitment to the association’s motto, “By love, serve one another,” and its mission of empowering women and transforming communities.
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