Joel Ajayi
Ambassador of the Women of Liberty and Moral Integrity (WOLMI) to the United Nations, Prof. Victoria Ayishetu Enape, has called on governments, international organisations and private institutions to increase investments in women as a strategic pathway to sustainable global development.
Enape made the call in a statement marking the 2026 International Women’s Day, themed “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress.”
She said the celebration was not only a moment to recognise women’s achievements worldwide but also a reminder that the progress of humanity remained closely tied to the empowerment of women.
According to her, women across cultures and continents have demonstrated resilience, leadership and innovation in shaping societies, building institutions and nurturing future generations.
“Women have served as educators, entrepreneurs, policymakers, scientists, diplomats and peacebuilders across the world.
“Yet millions of women and girls still face structural barriers that limit their access to education, financial resources, leadership opportunities and economic participation,” she said.
Enape noted that investing in women was not merely a matter of social justice but a strategic investment capable of strengthening economies, improving family welfare and promoting global stability.
Citing data from global institutions such as the United Nations, World Bank and International Monetary Fund, she said empowering women had consistently proven to boost economic growth, build resilient communities and foster sustainable development.
She emphasised that women’s economic empowerment remained one of the most transformative pathways for advancing gender equality.
“When women have access to financial resources, entrepreneurial opportunities and professional networks, they become powerful drivers of economic transformation.
“Women-owned businesses create employment, stimulate innovation and contribute significantly to national productivity,” she said.
The envoy also stressed the importance of education in empowering women and girls, describing it as one of the most powerful investments nations could make for future development.
According to her, beyond traditional education, women must be equipped with digital skills, financial literacy, leadership training and access to technology to thrive in an increasingly innovation-driven global economy.
Enape further highlighted the need for greater participation of women in leadership and decision-making processes at all levels of governance.
She said inclusive leadership was essential in addressing global challenges such as economic inequality, climate change, peace and security.
“The challenges confronting humanity today require diverse perspectives and inclusive leadership.
“Women must therefore be fully represented in leadership positions from local communities to national governments and international institutions,” she said.
She reaffirmed her commitment, as WOLMI’s ambassador to the UN, to advancing initiatives that promote women’s leadership, economic empowerment and global collaboration through advocacy, partnerships and capacity-building programmes.
According to her, empowering women is a global development imperative that benefits entire societies.
“When women rise, nations prosper. When women lead, societies become more just and inclusive. And when women are empowered, the world becomes more peaceful and sustainable,” she said.
Enape called on governments, international organisations, civil society groups and private institutions to work together to create policies and opportunities that support women and girls globally.
She added that the vision of a world characterised by equality, opportunity and shared prosperity could only be achieved when women everywhere were empowered to lead, innovate and transform societies.
