By Charles Okonji
Describing the role women play in national building and wealth creation, the Managing Director, Chief Executive of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Barrister Oluwaseun Falaye, has stated is more than moral obligation, but has economic and social necessity.
Faleye who was the Special Guest of Honour, stated this at the 2026 International Women Day (IWD) organized by the Trade Union Congress Women Commission in Abuja, Wednesday.
Accordingtohim; “When women are empowered with equal opportunities, fair wages, safe working conditions, and access to social protection, societies become more stronger and economies grow more resilient.
He acknowledged women for consistency in championing the “cause of women within the labour movement and creating a platform that amplifies the voices, concerns, and aspirations of women across our workplaces and communities.”
Cherring the contributions of Nigerian women to national development, he lamented that many women still faced barriers limiting their access to opportunities.
The NSITF Chief Executive pledged affirmed continued commitment to promoting safe workplace for women and all workers.
He called on stakeholders to be commitment to “building a future where every woman has opportunity to work in a safe environment, earn a fair income, and participate fully in decision-making processes that shaped our economy and society.”
Earlier in his address, the President-General of the Trade Union Congress, Comrade Festus Osifo, noted that “Women remain pivotal contributors to our workplaces, our communities, and our nation’s progress.”
He rued the inequalities facing women even as he revealed that the TUC had taken bold steps to end inequalities and institutionalize gender inclusion.
Also speaking at the event, Dr. Vanessa Phala Moyo, Country Director for International Labour Organization (ILO) stated that “International Women Day offers the world an annual opportunity to recognise women’s achievements, confront persistent inequalities, and reaffirm our collective commitment to social justice.”
She called attention to “structural barriers that continue to hinder women’s full enjoyment of rights in the world of work”, which she said, should be a call to action.
On her part, Comrade Esther Saabe Ahmadu, Chairperson, TUC Nigeria Women Commission added her voice to the call for women inclusion, saying “as we reflect on the struggles and triumph of women across the globe, it is clear that while we have come a long way, there is still much to be done to ensure that women are not only seen and heard but also empowered in every sphere of life.”
The occasion had in attendance labour leaders, women leaders, representatives of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment and other stakeholders.
