By Moses Okorie
The Association of Corporate Online Editors (ACOE) has congratulated Nigerian women on the occasion of the 2026 International Day of Women and Girls of African Descent, commending their resilience, achievements, and invaluable contributions to national development.
The Chairman of the association, Sola Akingboye, conveyed the goodwill message in a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja to mark the global observance celebrated annually on July 25.
Akingboye described the day as a significant occasion set aside by the international community to recognise the remarkable contributions of women and girls of African descent in shaping societies, promoting peace, driving economic growth, and preserving the continent’s rich cultural heritage.
According to him, Nigerian women have continued to distinguish themselves in governance, business, education, healthcare, technology, agriculture, media, sports, and other sectors despite numerous social and economic challenges.
He noted that their determination, hard work, and commitment have remained instrumental in advancing the country’s development and strengthening democratic values.
The ACOE chairman urged governments at all levels, private institutions, civil society organisations, and development partners to intensify efforts toward creating an enabling environment where women and girls can thrive without discrimination or barriers.
He stressed the need for sustained investment in education, healthcare, entrepreneurship, leadership development, and digital inclusion to empower women and girls to realise their full potential.
Akingboye also called for stronger measures to eliminate gender-based violence, harmful cultural practices, and all forms of discrimination that continue to hinder the progress of women and girls across the country.
He encouraged Nigerian women, particularly young girls, to remain focused on education, innovation, and skills acquisition, describing them as critical tools for personal growth and national transformation.
According to him, the future of Nigeria depends largely on the ability of women and girls to participate meaningfully in governance, economic development, and nation-building.
The ACOE chairman reaffirmed the association’s commitment to promoting responsible journalism and using digital media platforms to amplify stories that celebrate excellence, advocate gender equality, and inspire positive social change.
He added that the media has a crucial role to play in projecting the achievements of women while challenging stereotypes and promoting narratives that encourage inclusion and equal opportunities.
Akingboye congratulated Nigerian women once again on the commemoration of the 2026 International Day of Women and Girls of African Descent and urged them to remain steadfast in their pursuit of excellence, assuring them that their contributions remain indispensable to Nigeria’s sustainable development and Africa’s collective progress.