The hall reverberated with chants of “Great ITF Women! Great—women are great, no controversy!” as members of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) Women Committee gathered to celebrate this year’s International Women’s Day, themed “Give to Gain.”
Delivering his remarks, President-General of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, Comrade Francis Bunu Abi, expressed pride in the union’s strides in gender inclusion. He noted that under his leadership, the union produced its first female Deputy President-General, who also serves as Chairperson of ITF Women.
He emphasized that the Maritime Workers Union has consistently set the pace for others, pledging continued institutional support for women within the union.
“I am proud of what we have achieved. We will always stand by our women and provide support whenever needed,” he assured.
Guest speaker and resource person, Mr. John Fagbemi, called on organizations to provide equal opportunities for women, stressing that empowering women is not an act of charity but a strategic investment.
“Women are not second fiddles. They bring unique perspectives that drive growth, innovation, and development,” he said.
Fagbemi described women as agents of positive change, capable of illuminating challenges and unlocking opportunities when adequately trained. He urged women to assert their place in workplaces and society, while also emphasizing the importance of continuous self-development. He further tasked the ITF Women Committee to intensify efforts in empowerment, training, and mentorship, while encouraging unity and the dismantling of cultural barriers that hinder progress.
In her presentation, Sister Safiya Araga celebrated the resilience, strength, and contributions of women across all spheres of life.
“Today, we celebrate the strength, wisdom, love, and resilience of women across the world. From mothers nurturing life to leaders shaping the future, every woman carries a light that inspires generations,” she said.
She highlighted key issues affecting women, including gender-based violence, child protection, access to quality healthcare, and the need for sustained advocacy for women’s rights. Araga reiterated that the “Give to Gain” theme underscores the importance of collaboration, mutual support, and shared growth, while calling for expanded access to education and empowerment opportunities for women.
Also delivering a solidarity message, the General Secretary of the Association of Nigerian Aviation Professionals, Comrade AbdulRasaq Saidu, urged women to learn from one another and cultivate values such as diligence, discipline, and hard work. He commended the orderly conduct of the gathering, drawing parallels with global best practices.
Saidu stressed the importance of respecting constituted authority and expressed confidence in women’s capacity to excel in governance. However, he criticized labour unions for straying from their core mandates, warning against undue political interference.
“It is time for Nigerian workers to rise. We have given our service; now it is time to reap the gains,” he declared.
Adding her voice, Vice President of ITF, Omolabake Adelakun, challenged women to move beyond symbolic participation in union activities. She urged them to actively engage in ITF Women meetings and apply the knowledge gained to their personal and professional lives.
“Do not be ceremonial comrades. Attend meetings, learn, and make practical use of what you have learned,” she said, while also encouraging women to continue celebrating their achievements and supporting one another.
The event also featured a series of activities, including a minute’s silence in honour of a deceased member, recognition of a retired veteran, goodwill messages, and a lively dance competition. The highlight came when Tope Sowemimo of the Railway Workers Union captivated the audience with energetic modern dance steps, leaving attendees in fits of laughter and admiration.
Earlier, Chairperson of the Nigerian Women’s Wing of ITF and Vice President-General of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, Comrade Funmi Fasan, expressed deep satisfaction with the turnout and impact of the event.
“I feel fulfilled seeing our women happy. Bringing women together is not always easy, but today has shown what is possible. This gathering reinforces that women are not second fiddles, they are vital both in the union and in their workplaces,” she said.
Fasan acknowledged challenges among women, particularly issues of rivalry and lack of mutual support, noting that education and awareness remain key to overcoming such barriers.
“When women are properly informed and empowered, they begin to support one another and grow together,” she added.
Reflecting on her leadership as Chairperson of the ITF Women Committee, a position she assumed in January 2025 during the 7th Quadrennial Delegates Conference, Fasan said significant progress has been made within two years. She highlighted increased female participation, improved awareness of rights, and ongoing interventions in workplace-related gender issues, though she declined to disclose specific cases currently under review.
The celebration concluded on a high note, reinforcing calls for gender equality, stronger collaboration, and sustained investment in women as catalysts for growth within Nigeria’s transport sector and beyond.
