Ikeja Electric Marks International Women's Day 2026 with 'Give to Gain' Theme, Urges Empowerment Through Mentorship and Generosity

 Ikeja Electric Marks International Women's Day 2026 with 'Give to Gain' Theme, Urges Empowerment Through Mentorship and Generosity

Ikeja Electric (IE), one of Nigeria's leading electricity distribution companies, joined the global observance of International Women's Day (IWD) 2026 by hosting a hybrid event that celebrated women's contributions while inspiring greater inclusion, mentorship, and collective growth.

Held under the theme Give to Gain, the celebration emphasized how generosity, collaboration, and uplifting others drive lasting progress for individuals, workplaces, and communities. The event brought together female staff affectionately called "electricity Amazons" along with distinguished speakers who shared personal stories, professional insights, and calls to action.

In her opening address, IE's Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Folake Soetan, commended the resilience and impact of the company's women and challenged attendees to embrace the transformative power of giving. She reflected on how opportunities once extended to them should now be passed forward.

"At different points in our lives, someone gave so that we could gain," Mrs. Soetan said. "The question we must ask ourselves today is: are we doing the same for others? There is no real power in holding on to opportunities. The women who build things that last do not do so by keeping everything to themselves—they grow by sharing credit, sponsoring others, and creating room for more people to succeed. Legacy is not what you get; it is what you give and what continues to grow long after you have stepped back."

Board Chairman Dr. Kola Adesina delivered a goodwill message, invoking an African proverb about the palm tree that rises by lifting itself upward. He praised women's multifaceted roles in sustaining families, communities, and nations through resilience and leadership.

"Every act of generosity, every sacrifice, and every courageous step lifts not just the individual woman but the many lives connected to her," Dr. Adesina stated. "When women give knowledge, societies gain enlightenment; when women give passion, humanity gains healing; and when women give leadership, the future gains direction. When women rise, humanity rises with them."

A lineup of accomplished guest speakers reinforced the day's messages. Mrs. Morenike Molehin, CEO of Oak and Teak Interiors, stressed self-love and authenticity as prerequisites for effective giving. "You cannot pour into others from a place of emptiness," she noted, urging women to prioritize their wellbeing, set boundaries, and pursue visibility to amplify their impact.

Marketing communications expert Mrs. Jane Ezezobor advised women to shift from mere effort to demonstrable, quantifiable impact in their careers. She encouraged clear communication of achievements and building internal advocates to support advancement. "Leadership is not simply about being present or working hard; it is about creating impact and improving the system for those who come after you," she said.

Dr. Chidi Onyedika, CEO of NEM Health Limited, focused on women's health as a cornerstone of societal stability. He reminded participants that caring for others must not come at the expense of personal physical, mental, and reproductive wellbeing. "Protecting the health of women is not optional—it is essential. When women are healthy, they preserve the strength and energy that keep families and societies running."

Dr. Odiri Oginni, CEO of United Capital Asset Management Limited, highlighted financial independence, urging women to track their net worth, manage finances actively, and invest deliberately. "Financial independence begins with awareness," she said. "True freedom comes from building wealth through disciplined investing and financial resilience. As the saying goes, a woman's best protection is a little money of her own."

The event wrapped up with Ikeja Electric reaffirming its dedication to gender-inclusive policies, ongoing professional development for women, and a workplace culture rooted in collaboration and equity. Company officials expressed optimism that such initiatives will continue fostering sustainable growth and empowerment across the organization and beyond.