**Nigeria Celebrates International Women's Day: Leaders Emphasize Empowerment** Yesterday, prominent Nigerians from various backgrounds came together to mark International Women's Day, highlighting the crucial role women play in shaping the country's future. The celebration, which falls on March 8th every year, is a moment to acknowledge the strength, resilience, and achievements of women and girls across Nigeria and globally. At the forefront of the celebration was First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who stressed that empowering women is not a charitable act but a necessary investment in the nation's progress. In a message commemorating the day, Mrs. Tinubu emphasized that providing women with access to education, healthcare, economic opportunities, leadership platforms, and justice is crucial for building stronger families, more prosperous communities, and a more inclusive Nigeria. She stated, "Empowering women is not an act of charity; it's a collective investment in our future. When women rise, Nigeria rises!" This sentiment resonates deeply in a country where women continue to face numerous challenges, including limited access to education and economic opportunities. Other notable leaders who joined the celebration include Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and the Seadogs, a naval officers' association. Akpabio, in his message, praised Nigerian women for their resilience and contributions to nation-building, pledging that the National Assembly would continue to support policies that expand opportunities for women in economic and political spheres. Similarly, the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Group also marked the day, emphasizing its commitment to promoting gender equality and women's empowerment. The bank's efforts include initiatives such as the UBA Foundation's 'She Creates' program, which aims to support and empower women entrepreneurs in Africa. As Nigeria joins the global community in celebrating International Women's Day, it is heartening to see leaders and organizations prioritizing the empowerment of women. By investing in women's education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, Nigeria can unlock its full potential and create a more inclusive, prosperous, and stable future for all its citizens.