…The nation’s economy benefits when women work – Gender advocate
‘…We’re often the glue that holds families together, provide emotional support, others’
…Wives also help pay rents, school fees, contribute to their husbands’ businesses – Mrs. Chinasaokwu
…Women have risen to the task of bread-winning in most families – Mr. Ibe
The International Women’s Day (IWD), celebrated every March 8, affords women the opportunity to share their experiences and to be better appreciated, with many Nigerian women revealing how they are contributing to family growth, nation-building, upbringing of children, amid challenges; PAUL OKAH reports.
Historical perspective
The International Women’s Day (IWD) has a rich history that spans over a century. The first National Woman’s Day was observed in the United States on February 28, 1909, inspired by a protest by women garment workers in New York City on March 8, 1857.
The idea of an IWD was first proposed by Clara Zetkin, a German Socialist, in 1910 at the second International Conference of Working Women in Copenhagen. Zetkin suggested that every year, in every country, there should be a celebration on the same day – a Women’s Day – to press for women’s demands.
The first IWD was celebrated on March 19, 1911, in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland, with over one million people attending rallies to campaign for women’s rights, including suffrage, better pay, and improved working conditions.
In 1917, Russian women began a strike for “Bread and Peace” on the last Sunday of February, which led to the Russian Revolution and the granting of women’s suffrage. The date of the strike, February 23 on the Julian calendar, became March 8 on the Gregorian calendar, which is now celebrated as International Women’s Day worldwide.
The United Nations began celebrating IWD in 1975, declaring March 8 as the UN Day for Women’s Rights and World Peace. Today, IWD is celebrated in many countries, with events, rallies and campaigns to promote women’s rights, equality and empowerment.
Invaluable contributions
Speaking with Blueprint Weekend, a 300-level Psychology student in Ebonyi State University, Chukwu Miracle, said women deserve to be celebrated every day because of their unwavering strength.
She said, “As we navigate the complexities of modern life, it’s easy to overlook the countless contributions women make to our families, communities and society as a whole. However, it’s essential that we take a step back and acknowledge the invaluable role women play in shaping our world. While International Women’s Day provides opportunities to specifically honour women’s achievements, it’s essential that we celebrate women every day. By doing so, we’re recognising the invaluable role they play in our lives, families, communities and society as a whole.
“Women are often the glue that holds families together. They provide emotional support, care for children and elderly relatives and manage the household. These selfless acts of love and devotion are frequently overlooked, but they are the foundation upon which strong, healthy families are built. Women have made ground-breaking contributions to various fields, from science and technology to art and politics. Women have faced countless challenges throughout history, from fighting for equal rights to overcoming discrimination and marginalisation.”
Gender advocate’s charge
In her opinion, a State Validator, Ebonyi GBV Situation Room, Mrs. Uche-Oko Cecilia Chinasaokwu, advised every woman to work and not rely entirely on a man for survival for different reasons, saying “when women work, they invest in their families and communities, creating a ripple effect that leads to national economic growth.”
“Over the centuries, cultures placed the financial responsibility of a household solely on men, while women were expected to oversee and maintain domestic responsibilities. However, the economic landscape in Nigeria has changed drastically, making it increasingly difficult for a single-income household to meet the demands of modern life. A woman should work not just for financial reasons, but also for personal growth, security, and empowerment. The benefits of female employment extend beyond the home, influencing national economies and creating stronger communities.
“The rising cost of living in Nigeria, especially in urban areas like Lagos, Abuja, Enugu, Abakaliki, and Port Harcourt, means that families struggle when only one partner earns an income. Many Nigerian women have found themselves abandoned by their husbands or widowed at an early age without any means of survival. The story of Nnedimma, a well-known tailor from Enugu, is an example. After her husband mysteriously passed away, she was left with five children to raise. But because she had her own tailoring business, she was able to provide for her family without relying on extended family members,” she said.
Continuing, she said, “A working woman helps alleviate the financial burdens on her husband, reducing stress in the home. For instance, in many Nigerian middle-class families, wives who work as nurses, teachers, or traders help to pay rents, school fees, and even contribute to their husbands’ businesses. This financial partnership fosters cooperation in the marriage and prevents unnecessary strain that can lead to domestic conflicts.
“Having said that, children learn from what they see. Nigerian daughters who grow up seeing their mothers work develop the mindset that women should be financially independent. In contrast, girls raised in households where the mother is entirely dependent on the father may grow up believing that a woman’s role is only in the kitchen. A good example is that of Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the current director-general of the World Trade Organization (WTO). Her mother was an academic and entrepreneur who taught her the importance of education and financial independence. Today, she is a global leader inspiring young Nigerian girls to aim high.
“The Nigerian economy benefits when women work. A 2020 study by McKinsey & Company showed that increasing women’s workforce participation in Nigeria could boost the country’s GDP significantly. When women work, they invest in their families and communities, creating a ripple effect that leads to national economic growth. Working women strengthen their families, contribute to national development, and serve as role models for future generations.”
Similarly, a civil servant, Oluwakemisola Mary, said women have been socialised to rely on men for financial support, but that the mind-set is outdated and detrimental to their personal growth, self-esteem and overall wellbeing.
“Financial security reduces stress and anxiety, allowing a woman to live a healthier and happy life. When a woman has a career, she sets a positive example for her children, especially her daughters. She shows them that women can be strong, independent and successful.
“It is essential for women to have their own careers for financial security and stability. This promotes personal growth, empowerment and social justice. Men should also support women for financial independence and encourage them to pursue their dreams and ambitions. We can create a more equitable and just society where women have the freedom to choose their own paths,” she said.
Sacrifices for marriages to work
On his part, a scholar in Lagos state, Mr. Ganiyu Olasile, said women deserve to be celebrated for the efforts they make in the growth of families and the nation.
He said, “In the intricate tapestry of marriage, where love, commitment, and shared dreams intertwine, women often play a pivotal, yet often unacknowledged role in ensuring the smooth functioning and growth of their unions. While societal narratives often focus on the romantic aspects of marriage, the reality is that women make countless sacrifices, both big and small, that go largely unnoticed but are crucial to the success of their relationships. These sacrifices, though often subtle and unheralded, are the silent threads that bind the fabric of their marriages together.
“While it is essential to acknowledge the sacrifices women make in marriage, it’s crucial to remember that these contributions are not one-sided. By recognising and appreciating the often-unsung efforts of women, we can foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for the intricate dance of partnership.”
Similarly, an ICT consultant, Mr. John Ibe, said many marriages and homes would have gone bankrupt save for the resourcefulness of women in the family.
He said, “It will be a great injustice to turn a blind eye to the numerous sacrifices and contributions of women in families and societies all over the world, particularly in Africa. Most women in marriage suffer unimaginable situations in most marriages – abuses, and domestic violence.
“Women have risen to the task of bread-winning in most families, in response to the harsh economic downturn, accidents, death and other disasters that befall mankind.
“This has been the saving grace of many homes and children who would hitherto be languishing in penury and hunger, illiteracy and homelessness for want of food, education and shelter. For the new generation of women to fall into the stock of women to be continuously celebrated by generations unborn, they need to go back to the drawing board of marriage. Couples need to understand marriage from its original meaning and intent.”
Also, a secondary school teacher in Abuja, Aisha Yusuf, said her involvement in community development initiatives has contributed to the growth of students, especially women, communities and Nigeria as a country.
She said, “Growing up, I learned the importance of family and the value of teamwork. My parents instilled in me the notion that family comes first, and that every member, regardless of gender or position, plays a vital role in the family’s success. This lesson has guided me throughout my life and influenced my approach to teaching and community development.
“As a teacher, I strive to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment that fosters growth and development in my pupils. I believe that education is the key to unlocking individual potential and driving societal progress. By empowering young minds, I am contributing to the growth of my community and, by extension, Nigeria.
“Beyond the classroom, I am committed to supporting my family and community. I believe that women, in particular, play a critical role in nurturing and sustaining their families. As a woman, I take pride in being a source of comfort, guidance, and inspiration to my loved ones. By doing so, I am helping to build a stronger, more resilient family unit that can, in turn, contribute to the growth and development of our nation.
“In addition to my teaching and family responsibilities, I am also actively engaged in community development initiatives. I participate in local programmes that promote education, health care, and economic empowerment, particularly for women and girls. Through my teaching, community work, and family responsibilities, I am proud to be contributing to the growth and development of my family and Nigeria.”