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By Adewale Sanyaolu
Ikeja Electric has reaffirmed its commitment to gender inclusion, mentorship and the advancement of women as it joined the global community to commemorate the International Women’s Day (IWD) 2026.
The power utility firm encouraged women to grow by empowering others through service, collaboration and leadership.
The company marked the occasion with a hybrid event themed “Give to Gain,” which brought together professionals from different sectors to share insights on leadership, personal development, health and financial independence for women. The session featured speakers including Chidi Onyedika, Jane Ezezobor, Odiri Oginni and Morenike Molehin, who encouraged participants to embrace mentorship and purposeful growth in their careers and personal lives.
In her opening remarks, the Chief Executive Officer of Ikeja Electric, Folake Soetan, challenged women to reflect on the role generosity and mentorship have played in their journeys and to extend the same opportunities to others.
She noted that the most influential leaders are those who intentionally create opportunities for others and help nurture the next generation of leaders.
According to her, many successful professionals reached their current positions because someone opened a door for them at a critical moment, stressing that true leadership lies in ensuring that others are given similar opportunities to grow.
She added that enduring legacy is not defined by personal achievements alone but by the number of lives positively impacted through guidance, sponsorship and shared opportunities.
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The Chairman of the Board of Directors of Ikeja Electric, Kola Adesina, also paid tribute to the resilience and transformative influence of women, noting that their contributions continue to shape families, communities and nations. Drawing inspiration from an African proverb about the palm tree rising upward, he said women often uplift others through sacrifice, courage and generosity, adding that societies progress when women are empowered to lead and contribute meaningfully.
Speakers at the event also highlighted the importance of personal wellbeing, career visibility and financial empowerment as essential elements of sustainable success for women.
Chief Executive Officer of Oak and Teak Interiors, Morenike Molehin, urged women to embrace self-love and authenticity, explaining that meaningful contributions to society begin with self-awareness and confidence.
She encouraged women to maintain healthy boundaries, nurture their personal growth and ensure their voices and talents are visible.
Marketing communications professional, Jane Ezezobor, advised women to move beyond simply working hard to demonstrating measurable impact in their careers. She encouraged participants to document achievements, quantify their contributions and communicate their value clearly within their organisations.
Speaking on health and wellbeing, Chief Executive Officer of NEM Health Limited, Chidi Onyedika, emphasised that women must prioritise their physical, mental and reproductive health, noting that women often play a central role in sustaining families and communities.
He stressed that protecting women’s health is essential to maintaining the stability and productivity of society.
On financial empowerment, Chief Executive Officer of United Capital Asset Management Limited, Odiri Oginni, underscored the importance of financial independence for women. She urged participants to understand their personal balance sheets, track their net worth and adopt disciplined investment strategies that would enable them to build long-term wealth and financial resilience.
Ikeja Electric reiterated its commitment to strengthening initiatives that promote gender inclusion, professional development and mentorship within the organisation, while fostering a workplace culture where collaboration and equal opportunities drive sustainable growth.
