Women in Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State on Thursday joined the rest of the world to celebrate the 2026 International Women’s Day, with a strong call for parents to prioritise the education of the girl-child.
The event was held in Isiokpo, the headquarters of Ikwerre Local Government Area.
Wife of the Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government Area, Christina Wobodo, urged parents to equip their children with education and basic skills that will help them develop confidence, knowledge and leadership capacity.
She was represented at the event by the Vice Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government Area, Ethel Ginika.
“Education helps women to become independent and contribute meaningfully to economic development.”
“We are celebrating the courage, resilience and brilliance of women across the world.”
“Women have continued to shift paradigms, lead industries and inspire generations.”
Wobodo explained that International Women’s Day is a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.
She said the celebration also serves as a call for accelerated action towards gender equality.
She stated that the theme for the 2026 celebration is “Rights, Justice, Action for All Women and Girls.”
She added that the concept “Give to Gain” encourages generosity and collaboration as important tools for achieving gender equality.
According to her, giving often leads to multiplication and greater opportunities for women in society.
In her remarks, the wife of the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Environmental Technology (FUET), Ogoni, Rivers State, Dr. Chinyere Mmom, stressed the need to educate young girls to promote innovation.
She said education would also enhance women’s participation in politics.
“When you give, you should also expect something in return.”
She appreciated Wobodo for organising an enlightenment talk show aimed at educating women in Ikwerre Local Government Area.
Also speaking, Woman Leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State, Mirian Ogbonna, advised women to demonstrate respect in their homes.
She said showing respect would help women earn recognition and rightful positions within their families.
She also commended women for their patience, noting that patience often produces positive results.
Highlights of the celebration included the distribution of food items, wrappers and cash to Renewed Hope women across the 13 wards of Ikwerre Local Government Area.
The celebration also featured the cutting of a birthday cake for Dr. Chinyere Mmom.