The Lagos women under the aegis of the National Council of Women Societies of Nigeria (NCWS) Lagos branch gathered on Thursday, 28 March 2024 to celebrate themselves as the world celebrates International Women's Day on the 8th of March globally.

The women in their colorful green and white attire gathered at Solomon Compound, Olateju Street, Mushin to discuss issues bothering women and fraternize to join other women in the world to celebrate their month.

Addressing the gathering, the President of the National Council of Women's Society Nigeria,  Lagos branch, Alhaja Memunat Abake Ajao in her welcome address, said the Council was formed to promote the economic, social welfare, and progress of women, youth, people with disability and children, emphasizing education, skill, vocational and entrepreneurial education and employment, ensure that women are every opportunity to play their part as responsible members of the community and nation.

She added that the Council is to awaken and encourage the women to the realization of their responsibilities to the community and nation at large, to mobilise the women and facilitate their political and economic empowerment towards self-reliance, to promote women in politics and governance, foster cooperation with other national and international bodies with similar aims and objectives.

Speaking on the importance of the celebration, she said the United Nations Organisation set every March aside to celebrate women which is of importance as a reminder of women's role in society, which the Council hosted this year's celebration with the theme "Invest in women to accelerate progress".

The women reflected on the achievements and challenges faced by women globally and analyzed the immense benefits of investing and empowering women.

Lectures were delivered on the theme and gender-based violence and violence against children.

Speaking on the theme was Mrs Adebimpe Zacheus, representing the Honourable Commissioners for Information and Strategies, Lagos State, Mr Gbenga Omotosho,

She said it is a good thing for women to celebrate themselves and made it known that investing in women is not just the right thing to do but the smart thing to do.

"When you invest in women is investing in the future to unlock their potential as agents of change, drivers of economic growth." She said.

The women were also taking on health talks, teaching them how to increase their immune system and overall general well-being.

Some of the women who spoke with Mushines News said it is a good thing to celebrate our achievements at home, work, and social life as mothers and they can not avoid failing in their duty to the family, community, state, and nation at large.

Women from all walks of life were in attendance including the Council state executive members and local government chairpersons and coordinators and members.

Also in attendance was a retired Permanent Secretary in Lagos State, as well as government representatives from local to state.