As we celebrate International Women’s Month, it is essential to recognize the formidable contributions of women to national development and various sectors worldwide. The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), although established in 1960 as an apex chamber of commerce for both men and women in Nigeria, made a significant stride in 2005 with the formation of the NACCIMA Business Women Group (NAWORG). This move was a testament to the organization’s commitment to enhancing the status and inclusion of women within its ranks.
NACCIMA has seen remarkable leadership from women, with late Iyalode Alaba Lawson, MFR, FIoD, and Hajia Saratu Iya Aliyu, OON, both ascending to the prestigious office as 19th and 20th Presidents of NACCIMA. Their tenure exemplified the impact women can make in the highest echelons of management and decision-making.
In a groundbreaking initiative, the Women’s Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture was incorporated, further cementing the role of women in these critical sectors. Ms. Weyinmi Eribo, as the pioneer Director-General, represents an important milestone in the journey toward gender parity and women’s empowerment in commerce and industry.
Globally, women have shattered glass ceilings and achieved extraordinary milestones. In the sphere of international trade, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala made history as the first woman and the first African to lead the World Trade Organization (WTO), highlighting the increasing influence of women in global economic governance.
As a strong women’s right advocate, Funmi Ransome Kuti advocated for women’s rights, demanding better representation of women in local governing bodies and an end to unfair taxes on market women.
In the creative sector, Nike Davies-Okundaye, one of Nigeria’s most popular batik and Adire artists and the founder of the Nike Art Galleries in Oshogbo, Ogidi, Abuja and Lagos has put Nigerian art on the world map.
In the realm of science and technology, women inventors have made groundbreaking advancements. From the development of Kevlar by Stephanie Kwolek to the contributions of Ada Lovelace in computing, women have been pivotal in shaping the modern world. The realm of education has seen women rise to the challenge, with more girls having access to education and women attaining higher levels of academic achievement than ever before.
The sports industry has also witnessed the incredible prowess of women athletes, breaking records and inspiring millions. Figures like Serena Williams in tennis, Simone Biles in gymnastics, and Katie Ledecky in swimming and our very own Asisat Oshoala in soccer have redefined excellence in their respective sports.
As we salute the women of NACCIMA and those around the world for their contributions to various fields, we must continue to support and empower all women to reach their full potential. Through their resilience and ingenuity, women have demonstrated that they are indispensable in driving progress and innovation across the globe.
Let us all commit to fostering an environment that nurtures the talents of women, celebrates their achievements, and advocates for their equal rights and opportunities in all spheres of life.
