The Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) of Nigeria has celebrated its 120th anniversary with a call for greater commitment to women’s empowerment leadership development and community service.
The celebration held at Archbishop Akinde Conference Cente: ‘Empowering Women and Serving Our Communities’ The conference brought together distinguished personalities faith leaders women advocates and members of the association to reflect on the organisation’s rich history and its contributions to nation-building over the last 120 years.
Lagos State Governor’s wife Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu was represented by Mrs. Oyinda Ogunsanwo-Emmanue who hailed the YWCA for its enduring legacy of impacting lives promoting moral values and advancing the cause of women and girls across Nigeria.
She noted that the YWCA’s journey for over a century and two decades stands as a testament to the power of faith-driven service and community development.
‘For 120 years the YWCA has remained a beacon of hope empowering women nurturing young girls and strengthening communities across our nation. As we celebrate this milestone we must continue to build societies where women are equipped with the skills opportunities and support needed to thrive and contribute meaningfully to national development’ she said.
Chairperson of the occasion Hon. Justice Raliat Bukola Adebiyi an eminent jurist and administrator praised generations of YWCA leaders for their dedication and sacrifice describing the organisation as one of the most enduring platforms for women’s advancement in Nigeria.
According to her the association’s commitment to fostering leadership education and social responsibility among women has remained relevant in an ever-changing world.
‘The story of YWCA is the story of resilience compassion and purposeful service. Its legacy reminds us that we have a responsibility to connect generations for sustainable development by empowering women and girls to reach their full potential’ Justice Adebiyi stated.
The keynote address was delivered by Professor Olugbemisola Mopelola ?moegun who challenged women to embrace leadership opportunities while remaining committed to service and community transformation.
She emphasized that empowering women goes beyond advocacy and must translate into practical actions that expand access to education economic opportunities and mentorship for younger generations.
‘Empowerment is not merely about occupying positions of influence; it is about creating pathways for others to rise. The next generation of women must inherit stronger institutions greater opportunities and a culture of service that places humanity at its centre’ Professor ?moegun said.
The celebration also featured the presentation of ‘Awards of Impact’ to distinguished women whose lives and contributions have positively influenced society.
Among the honourees was Chief Mrs. Olubisi Osinbajo mother of Nigeria’s former Vice President Professor Yemi Osinbajo the family of Ajasin in Ondo State represented by Mrs Jumoke Anifowose alongside other eminent women recognized for their exceptional service leadership and contributions to community development.
Leading the awards presentation National President of YWCA Nigeria Mrs. Faith Jadu charged members to preserve the association’s enduring values and continue building on the foundation laid by its pioneers.
Reflecting on the significance of the anniversary she described the celebration as a moment of gratitude reflection and renewed commitment to the YWCA’s mission.
‘As we celebrate 120 years we are not just looking back with gratitude; we are looking forward with responsibility. Nigeria needs what YWCA carries women of integrity women of skill women of faith who will lead in the home the church the marketplace and in the nation’ Mrs. Jadu said.
She further urged members to remain steadfast in advancing the association’s vision of developing women and girls to become transformative leaders.
‘Our commitment remains unshaken. We must continue to develop women and girls who are valued protected educated skilled and empowered to lead. The next chapter of YWCA’s history depends on our willingness to rekindle our passion and strengthen our commitment to service.’
Founded in 1906 the YWCA of Nigeria has played a pivotal role in promoting the welfare of women and girls through education skills development leadership training and community outreach programmes.
The anniversary celebration which attracted dignitaries from across the country served not only as a commemoration of the association’s past achievements but also as a platform for charting a new course for future generations.
As the event concluded participants renewed their commitment to the YWCA motto ‘By love serve one another’ pledging to continue empowering women and transforming communities across Nigeria.