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By Bianca Iboma -Emefu
At a time when conversations around gender equity and inclusion continue to shape national discourse, women across Nigeria have been urged to rise with courage, resilience, and purpose, taking their rightful place in leadership and community development.
This call resonated strongly at the Women in Rotary Conference and Exhibition held at the Rotary Centre in Ikeja GRA, Lagos, where about 100 women gathered to share experiences, celebrate progress, and chart a path for greater impact.
Anchored on the theme, “Influence, Innovation, and Impact,” the conference brought together thought leaders, policymakers, and professionals who challenged women to break barriers and assert their relevance in shaping society.
District 9111 Governor, Prince Henry Akinyele, set the tone with a powerful acknowledgment of women’s growing influence within Rotary and beyond. He recounted how a critical project, once on the brink of abandonment, was revived and successfully executed through the intervention of a woman leader.
“Women are a force to reckon with,” he said, urging participants to remain steadfast in leadership and continue driving impactful change.
He further emphasized the increasing role of women in Rotary, noting that their contributions have significantly strengthened humanitarian efforts across District 9111.
Chairperson of the conference, Omolara Akinsanya, highlighted the event’s focus on showcasing women’s talents while inspiring others to excel. She pointed to tangible outcomes from previous editions, including the empowerment of over 150 women in Ogun State with sewing, grinding machines, make up artistry kits and other vocational tools to promote self-reliance.
According to her, the initiative goes beyond dialogue, creating real opportunities for economic empowerment and skills development.
A defining moment of the conference came with the keynote address delivered by Nollywood actress, film maker and motivational speaker, Iyabo Ojo, whose message on resilience struck a deep chord with attendees.
Drawing from her personal journey, Ojo urged women to embrace persistence and self-belief, stressing that success is built on consistent effort.
“Rome was not built in a day,” she said. “Don’t look down on yourself. Believe in your strength, take risks, and know that you are beautiful. Loving yourself is very important.”
Her rallying call, “I will survive,” echoed through the hall, reinforcing the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges.
The event also marked Ojo’s induction into Rotary International, a milestone she described as a strategic step toward expanding her advocacy for women’s empowerment and humanitarian service. She commended Rotary as a platform that fosters collaboration, leadership, and meaningful social impact.
Former District 9110 Governor, Omotunde Lawson, reflected on the historical struggles women faced in gaining acceptance within Rotary, an organization once dominated by men.
“We have just started,” she said, urging women to be bold, visible, and unafraid to claim leadership positions. Her remarks drew applause, signaling a shared determination among participants to push boundaries.
Also lending her voice to the conversation, Motunrayo Adijat Adeleye, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation in Ogun State, underscored the importance of economic empowerment as a driver of national development.
“Empowering a woman is equivalent to building a nation,” she stated, emphasizing that women’s contributions extend far beyond the home and into the broader socio-economic fabric of the country.
Throughout the conference, speakers consistently highlighted resilience, confidence, and collaboration as essential tools for overcoming systemic challenges. Panel discussions further explored issues of inclusivity and accountability, reinforcing the need for deliberate action in advancing women’s leadership.
Awards were presented to outstanding members and speakers in recognition of their dedication to service and impact, adding a celebratory note to the gathering.
Beyond the speeches and accolades, the conference underscored a growing movement—one where women are no longer waiting for opportunities but actively creating them. From entrepreneurship to public service, participants demonstrated a shared commitment to redefining leadership and driving change.
As the event concluded, the message remained clear and urgent: women must continue to rise, support one another, and lead with purpose.
In a society where challenges persist, the Women in Rotary Conference served not just as a platform for dialogue, but as a catalyst for action—amplifying a collective voice that refuses to be silenced and a vision determined to shape a more inclusive future.
