To commemorate International Women’s Day, the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), through the Senator Oluremi Tinubu Gender Centre of Excellence, on 11 March 2026 organised a series of activities in Plateau State aimed at promoting gender inclusion, leadership development, and women’s empowerment.
The programme commenced with a school outreach in the Kuru community where sanitary towels were donated to four secondary schools. The initiative was designed to support young girls and promote awareness on menstrual hygiene. Female participants of the Senior Executive Course (SEC) 48, 2026 were part of the outreach team and actively participated in the distribution of the items while interacting with the students.
The visiting team included the Director-General of the National Institute, Prof. Ayo Omotayo, represented by the Director of Studies, Barr. Nima Salman Mann, mni; the Deputy Director of the Senator Oluremi Tinubu Gender Centre of Excellence, Hon. Maryamu Laka Madami, mni; directing staff of the Institute; as well as the female participants of SEC 48 who were actively involved in the outreach activities.
Following the outreach, the Institute hosted a Leadership Dialogue and Policy Roundtable which brought together stakeholders to reflect on the role of women in leadership and national development.
The keynote speaker, Toyin Sanni, delivered a keynote address titled “Give and Gain: Investing in Women for National Gains,” where she emphasised the importance of empowering women as a strategic pathway to sustainable national development.
The event also featured the recognition of women champions of change whose contributions continue to inspire transformation within their communities.
This year’s theme, “Give and Gain,” highlights the reciprocal value of investing in others through shared knowledge, structured mentorship, collaborative partnerships, and institutional support systems. It underscores the idea that when individuals and institutions intentionally provide opportunities, guidance, and platforms for growth, the gains extend beyond individuals to strengthen leadership, improve governance, and advance national development.
