By Chioma James
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter of the Standup for Women Society (SWS) on Sunday joined the global community to commemorate International Women’s Day (IWD) 2026 with a solidarity walk in Abuja, highlighting the need for stronger support systems for women and girls.
The event, held under the theme “Give to Gain,” brought together members of the organisation and partners who marched to raise awareness on gender equality, empowerment, and inclusive development.
Speaking during the event, the Chairperson of SWS FCT Chapter, Lib Mina Daniels, commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory for the ongoing infrastructural development across the territory, noting that the visible improvements in road networks and other key infrastructure have significantly enhanced mobility and development within the FCT.
Daniels urged the Minister to sustain the pace of development while doing even more to improve the welfare of residents.
She also appreciated members of the Chapter for their impressive turnout at the solidarity walk, describing their participation as a reflection of their commitment to advancing the rights and wellbeing of women and girls.
The Chairperson further acknowledged the support of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) for partnering with the Chapter to successfully commemorate the day.
According to her, preparations are already underway for the organisation’s upcoming international conference, and she encouraged members and interested participants to register early in order to take advantage of the opportunity.
Also speaking with journalists at the event, the Secretary of the Chapter, Lib Princess Joy Idam, called on the Federal Government to make sanitary pads readily available in schools across the country.
She explained that such a policy would help keep girls in school, reduce absenteeism, and improve their academic performance.
Idam also urged the Federal Government to introduce more support programmes for widows and vulnerable women through the provision of small grants to help them sustain their families and reduce economic pressures that often lead to conflicts in homes.
In her remarks, the Chairperson of the Kogi State Chapter of SWS, who joined the solidarity walk, commended the Kogi State Governor for implementing progressive gender inclusion policies in the state.
She highlighted the policy that ensures all Vice Chairpersons of Local Government Councils in the state are women, adding that the State House of Assembly also currently has a female Deputy Speaker.
She described the initiative as a significant step toward strengthening women’s participation in leadership and governance.
Delivering the vote of thanks, the Vice Chairperson of the FCT Chapter, Lib Lydia Samson, called on men to stop bullying and harassing women in workplaces.
She stressed that harassment of women in any form is unacceptable and urged society to promote respect, dignity, and equal opportunities for women.
The event ended with renewed calls for collective action toward empowering women and girls in line with the 2026 International Women’s Day theme, “Give to Gain.”