GIVE TO GAIN SUMMIT 2026
The National Council of Women’s Societies (NCWS), Nigeria, participated in the Give to Gain Summit 2026 held at the State House Banquet Hall, Aso Rock, Abuja, as part of activities marking the 2026 International Women’s Day. Organised by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, the Summit brought together key stakeholders under the global theme, “Right, Justice, Action for All Women and Girls.” The NCWS delegation was led by the National President, Princess Edna D.D. Azura (Kwatam Mutaku), who was present to represent Nigerian women, reaffirming the Council’s role as the umbrella body for women’s organisations and its commitment to advancing the welfare and rights of women and girls nationwide.
The event witnessed the presence of high-level dignitaries from government, development organisations, and the private sector. Although Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Special Guest of Honour, was unavoidably absent, she was represented by the Wife of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, who delivered the keynote address. The message emphasised the Federal Government’s commitment to gender equality, women’s empowerment, and inclusive development. Notable attendees included the Honourable Minister for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, and the Honourable Minister of State for Education, Dr. Suwaiba Said Ahmad, alongside representatives of key institutions such as SEC, NGX Group, UN Women, UNFPA, and other partners.
A major highlight of the Summit was the official flag-off of the Give to Gain Empowerment Initiative, conducted by the representative of the First Lady. The initiative aims to provide targeted support and economic opportunities to vulnerable women and girls across Nigeria, aligning with the Renewed Hope Agenda. The ceremony included symbolic presentations and exhibition tours, demonstrating practical steps being taken to ensure that empowerment initiatives reach women at the grassroots level.
The Summit also featured impactful testimonials from beneficiaries of programmes such as the Nigeria for Women Scale-Up Project and the Renewed Hope WAVE Programme 774, showcasing real-life transformations in livelihoods and economic independence. Panel discussions further explored critical issues including women in leadership, economic participation, and access to the capital market, while a digital inclusion session highlighted the importance of technology and innovation in expanding opportunities for women. The event concluded with the Women’s Money Show, which provided practical insights into financial literacy, wealth creation, and networking opportunities for participants.
In conclusion, the Give to Gain Summit 2026 served as a strategic platform for reinforcing national commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment. The presence and participation of the NCWS National President, Princess Edna D.D. Azura (Kwatam Mutaku), underscored the Council’s leadership role in advocating for Nigerian women. The outcomes of the Summit highlight the importance of sustained collaboration, effective implementation of empowerment programmes, and continued advocacy to ensure meaningful and lasting impact for women and girls across the country.
Princess Edna D. D. Azura (Kwatam Mutaku),
National President,
National Council of Women Societies (NCWS), Nigeria.
