IWD 2026: Arise Women Founder, Siju Iluyomade Urges Women To Support Others

The Convener, Arise Women Foundation, Dr Siju Iluyomade has tasked Nigerian women to be intentional in uplifting and empowering each other, adding that this was what her Foundation has been known for over the last 17 years, during which it has championed the cause of women and the poor in the society.

In her statement while commemorating the 2026 International Women’s Day, she stated, “This year, the theme of International Women’s Day is ‘Give To Gain’, which emphasises the importance of spreading love through giving women and less privileged fosters a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment”

The delectable lawyer of over 30 years experience, has always being a compassionate woman leading thousands of women across the country and beyond, through her Foundation.

While encouraging women in the spirit of this year’s edition of International Women’s Day, Dr Siju said, “Women must be determined to exemplify attributes that gives without expecting in return, your gain is divine and it will come to you without asking.”

In her words, “When we empower others to understand and value women’s inclusion, we forge a better world, and when women themselves are inspired to be included, there’s a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment. Collectively, let’s forge a more inclusive world for women by giving”.

In her word of exhortation, Dr. Siju added that “the strength that nurtures, the wisdom that builds, and the courage that transforms communities. Today and always, I honour the resilience, brilliance, and grace of every woman who continues to rise and uplift others”.

Dr Siju, who is also the Founder, Handmaidens Women in Leadership Series (WiLs), has hosted Arise Women Conference in the past 17 years with the coming together of notable and inspiring women from across the globe.

Organisers say the event has also empowered over 100,000 women in the last 10 years in various skill acquisition programmes.

The group has also built boreholes, a hospital for free baby delivery, schools, computer centres in Dafara, a remote part of Abuja suburb, and many other interventions.

“Arise Women is now synonymous to food basket popularly called Arise Pink Buckets, through which various foods like rice, beans, groundnut oil, tomato paste among others are shared to underprivileged individuals in many parts of the country,” she said.