By Ebiere Kekeboro
The International President of the Standup for Women Society, Deborah A. Ijadele-Adetona, has called on women across the world to support one another and take active roles in governance and leadership.
Ijadele-Adetona made the call in a message to mark the 2026 International Women’s Day, urging women to embrace the theme, “Give to Gain,” by empowering one another and creating opportunities for the next generation.
In the statement released on Saturday, the SWS president said the annual celebration provides an opportunity to recognise the resilience, strength and contributions of women to families, communities and global development.
She said, “This special day reminds us of the extraordinary strength, resilience and determination that women continue to demonstrate in every sphere of life. Women are the pillars of families, the builders of communities and the driving force behind meaningful social transformation.”
Speaking on the theme, she noted that giving support, knowledge and opportunities to other women would ultimately lead to collective progress in society.
“The theme, ‘Give to Gain,’ reminds us that when we give our support, our knowledge, our compassion and our opportunities to one another, we all gain as individuals, communities and as a global society,” she said.
Ijadele-Adetona also emphasised the need for greater participation of women in leadership and decision-making processes, stressing that inclusive governance leads to stronger institutions and sustainable development.
According to her, when women actively participate in leadership, policymaking and public administration, they bring perspectives that promote balanced decisions and inclusive policies.
She reaffirmed the commitment of the Standup for Women Society to advancing women’s empowerment and leadership across communities and nations.
The SWS president urged women to continue to lift one another and work collectively to break barriers and promote equality.
“Believe in your strength, support another woman, give your voice to justice and give your hand to someone rising. Because truly, when women give, the world gains,” she added.