Women’s Day 2026: Group Seeks Greater Female Representation in Governance, Calls for Accountability in Project Execution
As the world marked the 2026 International Women’s Day, a women’s advocacy group has called for increased representation of women in governance and stronger accountability in project execution across Nigeria.
The call was made in Abuja by the Chartered Institute of Project Managers of Nigeria (CIPMN), in partnership with the Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WCCI) Emerging Market Hub and other women-focused organisations, during a conference held to commemorate the global celebration.
The event, organised alongside a CIPMN membership induction, was themed “Women in Project Governance: Catalyst for Renewed Hope in Project Delivery.”
Speaking at the event, the Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of CIPMN, Hajiya Hajara Yusuf, emphasised the importance of women’s inclusion in leadership and project governance, noting that International Women’s Day should go beyond celebration to serve as a platform for reflection and renewed commitment to gender equity.
Yusuf commended the collaboration between CIPMN and the Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry Emerging Market Hub, describing the conference as an important platform for dialogue on leadership, accountability and inclusive development.
She noted that women continue to make remarkable contributions across sectors including governance, business, entrepreneurship, technology and community development.
According to her, inclusive leadership leads to stronger institutions, better decision-making and improved development outcomes. She added that women bring valuable qualities such as collaboration, resilience, long-term thinking and a strong commitment to community impact in governance and project management.
“When women are involved in the design, leadership and oversight of projects, outcomes tend to be more equitable, sustainable and responsive to societal needs,” she said.
Yusuf, however, noted that despite the progress made in women’s empowerment, more efforts are needed to ensure sustained advocacy beyond annual commemorations.
She stressed that empowering women, particularly in emerging markets, remains a key strategy for achieving inclusive economic growth and sustainable development.
“When women thrive, businesses grow, communities prosper and nations become stronger,” she added, urging stakeholders to continue championing women’s participation in project governance and support policies that promote gender equity.
Also speaking at the event, a newly inducted member of CIPMN and Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Dominion Mothers Group, Kemi Josephine Elebute-Halle, a former gubernatorial candidate in the 2022 Ekiti State election, commended Nigerian women for their resilience, intellect and commitment to national development.
Elebute-Halle noted that women’s contributions across various sectors highlight the need for inclusive policies that empower them to actively participate in political and economic decision-making.
“This year’s celebration reminds us of the strength and contributions of Nigerian women who continue to make a significant impact in governance and community development,” she said.
She added that the theme of the celebration, “Give to Gain,” underscores the importance of investing in women through mentorship, education and leadership opportunities as a pathway to societal growth.
Meanwhile, Mrs Charity Ada Akpulu, National Coordinator of the Pan African Young Women Development Initiative, called on the National Assembly to urgently pass the proposed bill on special legislative seats for women.
According to her, the bill would significantly enhance women’s participation in politics and bring about the much-needed positive changes in communities across the country.
