International Women’s Day: IPC calls for investments

From Bimbola Oyesola

As the world celebrated International Women’s Day (IWD) 2026 yesterday, the International Press Centre (IPC) has called on governments, political parties, media organisations and civil society to increase investment in women as a pathway to stronger democracy, press freedom and inclusive governance.

In a statement released on March 8 to mark the global celebration, the organisation said the theme for this year, “Give to Gain,” highlights the importance of deliberately empowering women to unlock wider social, political and economic benefits.

The statement, signed by IPC Programme Officer Melody Akinjiyan, emphasised that investing in women by providing opportunities, protections and platforms for leadership would ultimately strengthen societies and democratic institutions.

“As the world marks International Women’s Day 2026, the International Press Centre joins the global community in celebrating the resilience, achievements and invaluable contributions of women across all spheres of society,” the statement said.

According to IPC, women have continued to play significant roles in advancing democracy, strengthening media institutions and promoting inclusive governance across the world.

However, the organisation noted that despite these contributions, many women still face persistent barriers that limit their participation in leadership and decision-making processes.

“Persistent barriers still limit women’s participation in decision-making spaces, media leadership and democratic processes,” IPC said.

The group explained that these challenges range from gender inequality in political representation to limited access to platforms where women can shape national and global discourse.

IPC stressed that achieving gender equity requires deliberate and sustained policy actions by governments and institutions.

“Supporting women through affirmative action policies, expanding opportunities for women in leadership and decision-making, and ensuring safe and inclusive media spaces are critical steps toward achieving gender equality,” the statement said.

As part of its demands, the organisation called for the passage of legislation creating special seats for women in Nigeria’s political system.

The centre also urged political parties across the country to adopt the long-standing 35 percent affirmative action policy aimed at increasing women’s representation in governance.

“On this International Women’s Day, IPC demands the passage of the bill for special seats for women and calls on all political parties to adopt the 35 percent affirmative action,” the organisation stated.

Beyond politics, IPC also called for improved working conditions for female journalists, noting that women in the media often face additional challenges in the course of their professional duties. The organisation said more opportunities should be created for women to occupy leadership roles in newsrooms and media management. It further urged authorities and stakeholders to create an enabling environment that allows the media to provide comprehensive and insightful coverage of issues affecting women and the girl child.

“We demand an improved working environment and conditions for female journalists and more opportunities for women in leadership positions in the media,” the statement added.

IPC also emphasised the importance of investing in women’s economic independence and leadership capacity as a strategy for national development.

“When we give women the space, support and opportunity to lead, societies gain stronger democracies, more vibrant media ecosystems and more inclusive development outcomes,” the organisation said.

Reaffirming its commitment, the centre said it would continue to champion initiatives that promote gender equity in the media and democratic governance.

“IPC remains committed to advancing initiatives that promote gender equity in the media and democratic governance, while supporting platforms that empower women journalists and leaders,” the statement concluded.