By Amb. Prof. Mrs Victoria Ayishetu Enape
Distinguished delegates, respected leaders, esteemed colleagues, and extraordinary women from across the world,Today, as we celebrate more than a day on the calendar, we celebrate the strength, resilience, intelligence, and leadership of women who continue to shape the destiny of our world.
Across continents and cultures, women have risen above barriers, transformed communities, built institutions, and nurtured generations. From the classrooms of our schools to the chambers of global leadership, women continue to prove that when given opportunity, they do not only succeed, they transform societies. International Women’s Day is therefore not only a celebration of women’s achievements; it is also a global call to action, a reminder that the progress of humanity is inseparable from the empowerment of women.
And this is why the theme for International Women’s Day 2026 “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress” resonates so deeply with our shared vision for the future. Because when we invest in women, we invest in stronger economies. When we invest in women, we invest in healthier families.
And when we invest in women, we invest in a more peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable world.
Distinguished delegates, leaders of global institutions, representatives of governments, members of civil society, and women from across the world, It is a great honour to address this distinguished gathering on the occasion of International Women’s Day 2026, a day set aside by the global community to celebrate the achievements of women and to renew our collective commitment to advancing gender equality and human dignity.
Today, we gather under the powerful theme “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress.” This theme speaks not only to the aspirations of women across the world but also to the future of global development itself. It reminds us that investing in women is not merely an act of social justice; it is one of the most strategic investments societies can make for sustainable progress, economic growth, and global stability.
Throughout history, women have demonstrated extraordinary resilience and leadership in shaping societies. Women nurture families, build communities, drive innovation, lead institutions, and contribute significantly to economic development. Across continents and cultures, women have served as educators, entrepreneurs, policymakers, scientists, diplomats, and peacebuilders. Yet despite these remarkable contributions, millions of women and girls around the world continue to face structural barriers that limit their opportunities and prevent them from realizing their full potential. Inequalities in education, access to financial resources, leadership representation, and economic participation remain persistent challenges that require sustained global attention.
The message of this year’s International Women’s Day is clear: when we invest in women, we invest in the future of humanity.
Evidence from global institutions such as the United Nations, the World Bank, and the International Monetary Fund consistently demonstrates that empowering women leads to stronger economies, healthier families, more resilient communities, and more stable nations.
Economic empowerment remains one of the most transformative pathways for advancing women’s rights and opportunities. When women have access to financial resources, entrepreneurial opportunities, and professional networks, they become powerful drivers of economic transformation. Women-owned businesses generate employment, stimulate innovation, and contribute significantly to national productivity.
Furthermore, studies show that women reinvest a greater proportion of their income into their families and communities, particularly in education, healthcare, and social welfare. In this way, empowering women creates a ripple effect that benefits entire societies.
Education also remains a critical pillar in advancing women’s empowerment. Educating girls is one of the most powerful investments any nation can make. When girls receive quality education, they gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to pursue careers, lead institutions, and contribute to the development of their nations.
However, in today’s rapidly evolving global economy, education must extend beyond traditional learning. Women must be equipped with digital skills, financial literacy, leadership training, and access to technology so they can thrive in a world increasingly shaped by innovation and technological advancement.
Equally important is the participation of women in leadership and decision-making processes. The global challenges confronting humanity, from economic inequality and climate change to peace and security require inclusive leadership and diverse perspectives.
Women must therefore be fully represented at every level of governance, from local communities to national governments and international institutions. Inclusive leadership strengthens democratic institutions, improves policy outcomes, and ensures that development strategies reflect the needs of the entire population.
As Ambassador of WOLMI to the United Nations, I remain deeply committed to advancing initiatives that promote women’s leadership, economic empowerment, education, and global collaboration. Through partnerships, advocacy, and capacity-building initiatives, we continue to support programs that empower women to participate meaningfully in shaping the future of their societies.
The empowerment of women is not simply a women’s issue; it is a global development imperative. When women rise, nations prosper. When women lead, societies become more just and inclusive. And when women are empowered, the world becomes more peaceful and sustainable.
On this International Women’s Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to building a world where every woman and every girl, regardless of geography, culture, or circumstance, has the opportunity to pursue her aspirations and contribute to the advancement of humanity.
Let us work together with governments, international organizations, private institutions, and civil society to create policies, institutions, and opportunities that truly invest in women and accelerate global progress.
The future we envision a world of equality, opportunity, and shared prosperity, can only be achieved when women everywhere are empowered to lead, innovate, and transform our societies.
Together, let us continue the journey toward a world where gender equality is not an aspiration but a lived reality for every woman and every girl.
Happy International Women’s Day to women across the globe.
Thank you.
Amb. Prof. Mrs Victoria Ayishetu Enape is the Ambassador of WOLMI to the United Nations, a Professor of Accounting and Finance
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