YWCA marks 120 years, seeks more support for women

L-R Mrs Wemino Akinola, Secretary, 120th Anniversary Committee, former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justive/Guest of Honour, Mrs Jumoke Anifowose, National President, Mrs Faith Chem Jadu, 3rd National Vice President, Mrs Adeola Olabode, Chairman, 130th Anniversary Planning Committee Mrs Hilda Nwanekwu, at the on-going 120th Anniversary celebration of Young Women Christian Association (YWCA) held at Akinde Conference Center, Bariga yesterday

The Young Women’s Christian Association of Nigeria has called for renewed commitment to women’s empowerment, leadership development and community service as it marked its 120th anniversary.

The celebration, held at the Archbishop Akinde Conference Centre in Bariga, Lagos, was themed “Empowering Women and Serving Our Communities” and brought together faith leaders, women’s rights advocates, dignitaries and members of the association to reflect on its contributions to women and girls over more than a century.

According to a statement made available to PUNCH Online on Saturday, the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, was represented at the event by Mrs Oyinda Ogunsanwo-Emmanuel, who commended the association for its longstanding work in promoting moral values, supporting women and girls, and strengthening communities.

She described the association’s 120-year history as evidence of the role of faith-driven service in 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.

The chairperson of the occasion, Justice Raliat Adebiyi, praised generations of YWCA leaders for their dedication, describing the association as an enduring platform for women’s advancement in Nigeria.

She said its commitment to leadership, education and social responsibility remained relevant despite changes in society.

“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,” Adebiyi said.

Delivering the keynote address, Professor Olugbemisola Ọmoegun urged women to embrace leadership opportunities while remaining committed to service and community development.

She said empowerment should go beyond advocacy to include practical efforts to improve access to education, economic opportunities and mentorship for younger women.

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“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,” Ọmoegun said.

The event also featured the presentation of Awards of Impact to women recognised for their contributions to society.

Among the honourees was Chief Mrs Olubisi Osinbajo, mother of former Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo. The family of Ajasin in Ondo State was represented by Mrs Jumoke Anifowose, while other women were recognised for their service, leadership and contributions to community development.

Presenting the awards, the National President of YWCA Nigeria, Mrs Faith Jadu, urged members to preserve the association’s values and build on the work of its founders and past leaders.

She described the anniversary as an opportunity to reflect on the organisation’s history and renew its commitment to its 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,” Jadu said.

She said the association would continue to develop women and girls to become leaders who contribute to society.

“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,” she added.

Founded in 1906, YWCA Nigeria has worked to promote the welfare of women and girls through education, skills development, leadership training and community outreach programmes.

The anniversary celebration ended with participants reaffirming their commitment to the association’s motto, “By love, serve one another”, and pledging to continue supporting women and transforming communities.