Print Women group seeks collaboration to advance gender justice

A women’s advocacy group, Women N Media, has called for greater collaboration to dismantle structural barriers preventing women and vulnerable groups from accessing equal justice.

The call was made during the 15th edition of the International Women’s Day Summit, Empowerment and Stewardship Awards 2026, with the theme, “Give to Gain: Dismantle the Structural Barrier to Equal Justice,” organised by the group in Lagos.

The event, held on Friday at the LCCI Event Hall, Alausa, Ikeja, brought together professionals, policymakers and women leaders to discuss issues surrounding gender equality, empowerment and social justice.

The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi; and Chief Seyi Tinubu, who were listed as special guests of honour, were represented at the event.

Also represented were the International President of Women N Media, Dr Lillian Ayodele Williams, and the keynote speaker, Dr Ada Chukwudozie, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Keystone Bank.

Speaking during the event, the President of Women Optometrists in Nigeria, Dr Ogechi Nwokedi, said access to clear vision is essential to achieving equal justice and equal opportunities in society.

She stressed that poor eyesight often prevents people from fully participating in education, employment and social life.

Also speaking at the event, Director of Commercial and Communications at Renews Central, Rosemary Akola, emphasised the importance of investing in women and girls, noting that “when society intentionally invests in women and girls, when we give them education, we give them protection, opportunity, and access to justice, we do not diminish our collective resources. Actually, we multiply them.”

She highlighted the persistent barriers to justice for women in Nigeria, sharing the story of a young woman from Northern Nigeria who “endured years of domestic violence before finally deciding she could no longer remain silent,” but faced a justice system where “the nearest police station was far from her community” and “court procedures were confusing and intimidating.”

Akola also underscored the critical role of the media in advancing equality and justice, stating that “through responsible reporting, investigative journalism, and public awareness campaigns, the media can shine a light on issues that might otherwise remain hidden.”

Concluding her address, she called for deliberate societal action, asserting that “when we give to women and girls, Nigeria grows,” and reminding the audience that “when women gain opportunity, nations gain prosperity.”

The event concluded with the induction and presentation of Life Matron awards, honouring distinguished leaders including Amb Dr Lois Andrew Iwho and Amb Dr Rosaline Adedoyin Amangbo.

This was followed by an empowerment presentation jointly hosted by Women N Media and the Association of Business & Professional Women International, celebrating the achievements of women leaders.