2026 IWD: SWAN Demands Rights, Justice, Action For Women

By Taiye Olayemi

The Society of Women Accountants of Nigeria (SWAN) has demanded for the protection of rights, justice and action for women, in commemoration of the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD).

Mrs Blessing Osakwe-Ogo, National Chairperson of SWAN, made the call during the Society’s 2026 IWD celebration and March physical meeting held in Lagos.

Osakwe-Ogo said that rights are not privileges granted at convenience, but entitlements inherent to every woman and girl.

“Every woman accountant has the right to opportunity, not as favour, not as a concession, but as a matter of competence and qualification.

“Rights to aspire to partnership, to sit confidently at executive and boardroom tables, and right to equal pay for equal value.

“When a woman’s rights are denied, humanity is diminished,” she said.

The SWAN chairperson also noted that justice went beyond writing books but rather dismantling systems that perpetuate discrimination, while ensuring that policies are not only gender-neutral on paper, but gender-responsive in impact.

“Justice in accounting profession means that performance speaks louder than stereotypes, ambition in a woman is not misinterpreted and leadership is not limited by outdated assumptions,” she said.

According to her, it is important to act by moving from conversation to commitment, as rights and justice are meaningless without action.

Osakwe-Ogo stated that the appropriateness of this year’s theme: “Give to Gain” could not be overemphasised, because it highlighted the power of reciprocity.

“In other words, when individuals, organisations and communities invest in women, opportunities expand, systems strengthen and societies thrive.

“Likewise, when women give their knowledge, mentorship, courage, and above all their voices, impact will multiply.

“The theme, “Give to Gain’’ again reminds us that true progress comes from what we contribute rather than what we accumulate,” she said.

The SWAN chairperson disclosed that SWAN, through her programmes, had given by touching lives, most especially, of the girl-child, the aged, orphans and the society at large.

Osakwe-Ogo noted that the society had gained fulfilment and unquantifiable joy by being able to contribute its little quota in building institutions, families, and societies that are stronger and more inclusive.

The SWAN 2026 IWD celebration featured a solidarity road walk around the ICAN office in Ebute-Meta and its environs, carrying placards with inscriptions like, “Lets support and advance women”, “Invest in women”, and “Accelerate growth.”

Some other placards had the inscriptions, “Inspire others and forge a better world”, “Every step forward for women is a step forward for all”, among others. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)