By Nnasom David

Stakeholders in women’s growth, rights and empowerment have called for continued resilience to surmount systemic barriers that have stopped women from achieving their full potentials, praising their ability, creativity and courage to make a difference in the society

Speaking at a gathering, Rise With Elegance in Abuja, the Chief Executive Officer of Dee Utensils, HRM (Amb)
Lois Andrew Ihwo called on women to embrace resilience and pursue financial independence with purpose, declaring that “women must hustle not out of desperation, but out of vision.”

While lauding the evolving roles of women in nation-building, she tasked them on resilience, strategy, and innovation.

According to her, resilience goes beyond merely enduring hardship. She said, “It is about rising through challenges with strength and dignity.”

Amb. Ihwo noted that women have historically borne the weight of families, businesses, and communities, often with minimal recognition.

She urged participants to approach their ambitions with clarity and integrity, stressing that financial independence is both a tool for empowerment and a form of preparation for the future.

“When a woman is resilient, she becomes unstoppable. She becomes a builder of legacies, a pillar in her home, and a force in her industry,” Ihwo added.

Also speaking, the convener of Rise With Elegance, Jennifer Ibrahim, reflected on her personal experiences growing up around hardworking women, noting that her upbringing shaped her belief in the balance between ambition and family life.

She said, “I grew up watching strength in motion,” Ibrahim said. “My grandmother worked. My mother worked. I saw women who nurtured their homes without abandoning their dreams.”

She maintained that motherhood and career ambitions are not mutually exclusive, but can coexist harmoniously when approached with intention.

According to her, children raised by purpose-driven mothers often grow up imbibing resilience, courage, and vision.

Ibrahim further highlighted the importance of community among women, noting that many are increasingly refusing to choose between building a career and raising a family.

“My message to you all is clear: chase your career, build your vision, and nurture your home. Do it with elegance and intention, knowing you are not alone,” she said.

Others who spoke include, Chinyere Jimifuna, Amb. Ruby Ross Maribao, Fina Onu, Stella Onwochei, Joan Ulaeto and others.