Ahead of International Women’s Day on March 8, 2025, Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, has paid tribute to women globally, acknowledging their pivotal role as the founders of human civilization and the driving force behind social advancement.
Amb. Dunhai made the remarks at an event to mark International Women’s Day with the theme, “Her Story, Her Future”, organised by the Chinese Embassy Nigeria in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, on Friday in Abuja.
The theme of this year’s celebration, as designated by the United Nations, is “For an Equitable World: Rights, Equality, Empowerment”, reports Persecondnews.
According to the Ambassador, this year marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.
The declaration, he said, has served as a blueprint for advancing women’s rights and gender equality globally, guiding efforts towards women’s women’s empowerment worldwide.
Dunhai said: “Gender equality is a fundamental state policy in China. Since the founding of the People’s Republic of China 75 years ago, the Chinese government has placed great emphasis on gender equality and women’s empowerment.
“China has established a comprehensive legal system to protect women’s rights, comprising over 100 laws and regulations. The average life expectancy of Chinese women has reached nearly 81 years, and the gender gap in education has been essentially eliminated.
“Women account for nearly 45% of the total workforce, and in the internet sector, female entrepreneurs outnumber their male counterparts, making up 55% of the total.
“Over the past 30 years, we have witnessed remarkable achievements by women in political, economic, technological, and cultural fields across the world, as they have written a glorious chapter in History.
“Gender has never been a barrier for human exploration. Civilization, science and technology could always break down prejudices. When women enjoy equal education and fair resource access, they would be able to make history.”
In her goodwill message, Mrs. Olubunmi Olowookere, the Permanent Secretary, the Social Development Secretariat, Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), said the celebration honours not only women’s achievements but also the power of their stories in shaping the future.
According to her, the theme reminds us that every woman’s journey is a testament to resilience, courage, and the pursuit of dreams.
She said: “From history to the present, women have broken barriers, challenged norms, and paved the way for future generations.
“Their voices, struggles, and triumphs have transformed societies, enriched cultures, and inspired progress. As we honor the past, we must also commit to a future where every Woman has the opportunity to rise, lead, and thrive.
“A future where education, equality, and empowerment are not privileges but rights. A future where women’s contributions in every sphere science, business, arts, and leadership-are valued and celebrated.
“To all the women here today: your story matters. Your aspirations matter. Your future is bright and limitless. May we continue to uplift, support, and champion one another in the journey ahead.”
Also in her short goodwill message, the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Mrs. Hannatu Musa Musawa, said women need to be celebrated because they are the bearers of life, just as God is the ultimate creator of life.
Musawa, who was represented by the acting Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Mr. Raphael Oraeluno, said women have excelled in all works of life, including medicine, law, engineering, and others.
According to her, Nigerian women are keeping the flag flying high by occupying various positions both nationally and internationally.
She said: “When a woman is at the helm of affairs anywhere, there is always peace and tranquility, that is why we are clamoring for a woman president.”
A world renowned textile artist and owner of Nike Gallery, Chief Nike Davies-Okundaye disclosed that through her art, she has empowered her 14 fellow wives.
Okundaye said some women are yet to know how powerful they are, and what they can achieve when they are united.
She thanked the Chinese Embassy for hosting the event and advised Nigerian women to continue to fight for their betterment in the country.
Persecondnews also reports that the event featured performances including a capella ensemble “To Girls”, poetry recitation “To The Oak Tree” and “Ezigbo Nne (Good Mother)” performed by Capital Voice Abuja.
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