Wikimedia Nigeria, in collaboration with the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Lagos State Chapter, and other stakeholders, commemorated International Women’s Day (IWD) on March 11, 2025, in Victoria Island, Lagos, with a symposium and press conference aimed at promoting women’s visibility and leadership.
The event, themed “Accelerate: Women’s Leadership and Digital Empowerment,” sought to amplify the voices of underrepresented women and encourage their participation in nation-building through storytelling and digital engagement.
Mr. Olaniyan Olushola, President of Wikimedia Nigeria, emphasized the organisation’s mission of promoting the visibility of Nigerian women by documenting their stories and highlighting their achievements. “Investing in women’s stories is crucial. By putting their journeys from grass to grace in the form of journals, we can inspire future generations,” Olushola stated.
Addressing the audience, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Atanda, Senior Special Assistant on Establishments and Training to the Governor of Lagos State, stressed the importance of ensuring economic inclusion and financial equity for women. She urged women to acquire 21st-century skills, excel in their chosen fields, and support each other’s growth.
Ayokanmi Oyeyemi, Programme Director of Wikimedia Nigeria, noted that only about twenty percent of women are represented on Wikipedia. He called for increased efforts to bridge this gap by encouraging women to share their inspiring stories on the platform. “This gathering offers a valuable opportunity for influential women to advocate for broader representation, which is critical for national development,” Oyeyemi said.
On March 6th and 7th, 2025, Wikimedia Nigeria trained female journalists on skills to enhance their digital visibility, including creating and editing content on Wikipedia via Wikidata.
Speaking on the role of the media in reshaping narratives about women, Dr. Adeola Ekine, Chairperson of NAWOJ Lagos State Chapter, represented by Olawunmi Shittu, reiterated the association’s dedication to promoting women’s welfare, advocating against sexual and domestic violence, and sensitizing the public on health issues. She added that NAWOJ continues to train members on professional ethics and effective use of digital platforms to amplify women’s stories.
Mrs. Aiki Odiawa of Women Radio called for greater political inclusion, highlighting that less than thirty percent of political office holders in Nigeria are women. She encouraged grassroots mobilization to boost women’s participation in the electoral process.
Gender advocate Mrs. Korede Demola-Adeniyi emphasized the need for financial empowerment, mentorship, and sponsorship of young women to achieve self-sufficiency and professional excellence.
Also present, Mr. Frederick Ahsberg, Head of Political Affairs at the Swedish Embassy, Abuja, stressed the importance of partnerships to amplify women’s voices and drive change.
The event also featured contributions from Dr. Nkiru Balonwu, Founder of Africa Soft Power Group, and Mrs. Omolayo Ogunsiji, Executive Director of Wikimedia Nigeria, both of whom reiterated the importance of representing women not only on Wikipedia but across all sectors of society.
The symposium concluded with a renewed commitment to advancing women’s leadership, digital empowerment, and broader visibility to foster national growth.
