Empowering women an economic, social necessity, says NSITF MD Faleye
By Eberechi Obinagwam
“Empowering women is not simply a moral obligation—it is an economic and social necessity.” These were the words of Barrister Oluwaseun Faleye, Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF).
Faleye made the statement during the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration organised by the Trade Union Congress (TUC) Women Commission in Abuja. He described this year’s theme, “Empowering Women: The Path to Equal Rights and Social Justice,” as both timely and significant.
He said: “When women are empowered with equal opportunities, fair wages, safe working conditions, and access to social protection, societies become stronger and economies grow more resilient.”
The NSITF boss commended the TUC Women Commission for its consistent championing of women’s causes within the labour movement and for creating a platform that amplifies the voices, concerns, and aspirations of women across workplaces and communities.
While acknowledging Nigerian women’s contributions to national development, he lamented persistent barriers limiting their access to opportunities and reaffirmed the NSITF’s commitment to promoting safe workplaces for women and all workers.
The MD urged stakeholders to commit to “building a future where every woman has the opportunity to work in a safe environment, earn a fair income, and participate fully in decision-making processes that shape our economy and society.”
In his address, the President-General of the Trade Union Congress, Comrade Festus Osifo, noted that “women remain pivotal contributors to our workplaces, our communities, and our nation’s progress.”
He decried ongoing inequalities facing women and revealed that the TUC had taken bold steps to address them and institutionalise gender inclusion.
Also speaking, Dr. Vanessa Phala Moyo, Country Director for the International Labour Organization (ILO), said International Women’s Day “offers the world an annual opportunity to recognise women’s achievements, confront persistent inequalities, and reaffirm our collective commitment to social justice.”
She highlighted “structural barriers that continue to hinder women’s full enjoyment of rights in the world of work,” describing them as a call to action.
Summing up, Comrade Esther Asabe Ahmadu, Chairperson of the TUC Nigeria Women Commission, added her voice to the call for women’s inclusion: “As we reflect on the struggles and triumphs of women across the globe, it is clear that while we have come a long way, there is still much work to be done to ensure that women are not only seen and heard but also empowered in every sphere of life.”
The occasion was attended by labour leaders, women leaders, representatives of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, and other stakeholders.
