The Ondo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to women’s empowerment and inclusive development as the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Seun Bosede Osamaye, unveiled a robust lineup of activities for the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration.

Speaking during a media parley held on Wednesday, April 16, 2026, at the Skill Acquisition Complex of the Ministry in Akure, Dr. Osamaye described this year’s celebration as impactful, inclusive, and action-driven, with a strong focus on sustainable empowerment for women across the state.

Addressing members of the press, development partners, stakeholders, and women leaders, the Commissioner emphasized the vital role of the media in promoting awareness, transparency, and public engagement in governance and social development.

She noted that the parley was not only meant to provide information about the upcoming event but also to foster dialogue, collaboration, and collective action ahead of the main celebration.

According to her, International Women’s Day remains a global platform for advocating women’s rights, inclusion, and advancement, stressing that it goes beyond celebration and serves as a call for deliberate actions toward gender equality.

Dr. Osamaye highlighted the theme for this year’s celebration, “Give to Gain,” explaining that it underscores the importance of intentional investment in women.

She said when women are provided with opportunities, resources, and support, the entire society benefits through economic growth, social stability, and sustainable development.

A major highlight of the 2026 celebration, she revealed, is the empowerment of 1,200 women across Ondo State, surpassing last year’s figure of 1,000 beneficiaries.

She described the increase as a clear reflection of the commitment of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa under the “O’Datiwa O’Dirorun” OUR EASE policy agenda to continuously expand opportunities for women.

The empowerment programme, she explained, has been carefully designed to cut across all categories of women in society, including market women, professional women, women in agriculture, female students, entrepreneurs, artisans, women in leadership, youth groups, vulnerable women, as well as members of civil society and faith-based organizations.

Dr. Osamaye further announced that this year’s programme will feature a keynote address and a high-level panel discussion themed “Breaking the Ceiling: Women as Pillars of Ondo State Development.”
The session, she said, will bring together policymakers, thought leaders, and accomplished women to discuss practical strategies for overcoming barriers and enhancing women’s participation in leadership, governance, and economic development.

Another major highlight of the celebration is the official launch of the Ondo State O’Datiwa Women Cooperative Multipurpose Society, which she described as a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening the economic foundation of women across the state.

According to the Commissioner, the cooperative society is designed to provide women with access to financial inclusion, credit facilities, business support, capacity building, and wealth creation opportunities.

She noted that the initiative marks a shift from short-term interventions to a more structured and sustainable economic empowerment framework.

The Commissioner also announced the presentation of the Ondo State Female Iconic Awards, where five exceptional women will be honoured for their outstanding achievements, resilience, and contributions to the growth and development of the state.

She said the awards are intended not only to celebrate excellence but also to inspire young women and girls to aspire to leadership and contribute meaningfully to society.

Dr. Osamaye called on the media and all stakeholders to partner with the ministry in amplifying the impact of the initiatives and mobilizing public support for women’s advancement.

She described the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration as more than an event, but a movement and a renewed commitment to building a society where every woman and girl can thrive.

The main event is scheduled to hold on Tuesday, April 21, 2026.

The Commissioner concluded by stressing that empowering women is not a favour but a necessity for sustainable development, noting that when women thrive, families prosper, communities grow stronger, and the state advances.