By Ozioruva Aliu

BENIN CITY – AS part of a activities to mark the 2025 International Women Day (IWD), the Lift Above Poverty Organization (LAPO) has honoured the immediate past Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin, Pro. Lilian Salami and others to mark its Lifetime Achievement Award.

Others honoured were Hajia Saidatu Bello from Gusau, Zamfara State who began cooking business at the age of 15; in the Business category is Mrs Adora Ubochi who hails from Obi-Ngwa Local Government Area of Abia State and Mrs Isoken Uyi, a recipient in the Farming Category as a dedicated poultry farmer, specializing in broiler production, turkey Farming and fish production, including stockfish.

Speaking at the ceremony, Chairman, Board of Directors, LAPO, Dr. Osarenren Emokpae 2said since its inception in 2013, the annual award as become a beacon of inspiration, celebrating Nigerian women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and impact in Business, Farming, and Professional Careers.

According to him, “The theme of this year’s award, Breaking Barriers: Accelerating Equity, resonates deeply with the global call for gender inclusiveness and fairness. Despite historical challenges and entrenched cultural norms, Nigerian women have continued to rise, proving their competence, resilience, and invaluable contributions to national development.

“We have seen the emergence of trailblazers such as Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organisation; Prof. Lilian Imuetinyan Salami, the immediate past Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin who is one of the awardees of this edition, and many other accomplished women who continue to inspire new generations.

“Today’s event is a reminder that progress is not automatic. It requires collective action, policy reform, and continuous advocacy to dismantle the barriers that still hinder women from fully realizing their potential. We must work towards a society where women’s leadership is not the exception but the norm, where women’s achievements are celebrated, and where their contributions are recognized as integral to national prosperity.”

Also in her comments, President/COO of LAPO, Mrs. Faith Osazuwa-Ojo, said the event serves as a platform to recognise and celebrate the remarkable achievements of women who have defied limitations, shattered barriers and made significant contributions to societal progress.

Highlights of the occasion was the presentation of awards and cash gift of N500,000 each to the recipients.