By Paul Chimodo
Every year on International Women’s Day, the world pauses to celebrate the achievements, resilience, and invaluable contributions of women to society. It is a day dedicated not only to recognition but also to reflection, reflection on the progress made and the responsibilities that come with empowerment.
Across the globe, women have demonstrated extraordinary capacity to shape economies, nurture communities, and build nations. From boardrooms to classrooms, from laboratories to farms, women continue to prove that when given opportunities, they do not merely participate in development; they drive it.
The theme for this year’s celebration, “Give to Gain,” carries a powerful message. It reminds us that the path to progress, whether personal or collective, often begins with the willingness to contribute. Giving here does not simply refer to material generosity; it encompasses dedication, integrity, sacrifice, compassion, and the commitment to uplift others.
In many parts of the world, this philosophy has been embraced as a guiding principle. Women are investing in their communities, mentoring younger generations, supporting families, and building sustainable systems that benefit society as a whole. The idea is simple but profound: the more a society invests in genuine values and collective progress, the more it ultimately gains.
When we narrow the lens to Nigeria, the story of women remains both inspiring and complex.
Nigeria is blessed with remarkable women whose contributions continue to shape the country in profound ways. Across politics, business, education, healthcare, and social development, Nigerian women have shown strength, brilliance, and resilience. Many of them carry the burdens of family, career, and community service simultaneously, often with little recognition.
There are countless Nigerian women who embody the spirit of “Give to Gain.” These are the mothers who sacrifice daily to ensure their children receive education and moral guidance. These are the entrepreneurs who create jobs despite harsh economic realities. These are the professionals who mentor younger women, opening doors that were once closed.
Some women have also been pillars of support to men, families, and communities. They provide emotional stability, encouragement, and partnership in ways that often go unnoticed. Their strength is quiet but powerful. Their generosity of spirit reflects the true essence of womanhood.
However, honesty demands that we examine the other side of the coin.
In recent years, a troubling trend has emerged within segments of Nigerian society, an increasing shift toward materialism, entitlement, and transactional relationships. For some, the concept of “gain” has been interpreted without the preceding “give.”
Instead of partnership, there is exploitation. Instead of support, there is manipulation. Instead of building together, there is a growing culture of taking without contributing.
This attitude has manifested in various ways: unrealistic expectations in relationships, the glorification of quick wealth without effort, and a social media culture that celebrates luxury without acknowledging the discipline and sacrifice required to attain it. In some cases, values such as patience, loyalty, and mutual respect are gradually being replaced by opportunism.
It would be unfair to generalize all Nigerian women within this pattern, but it would also be irresponsible to ignore the growing influence of such tendencies. A society thrives when its moral compass remains balanced, and when both men and women embrace responsibility alongside opportunity.
The message of “Give to Gain” should therefore serve as a moment of reflection.
True empowerment is not measured only by what one can receive, but by what one is willing to contribute. Respect, loyalty, kindness, diligence, and integrity are forms of giving that ultimately yield the greatest rewards.
For Nigerian women, the path forward lies in strengthening the values that have long defined the best of their legacy, resilience, compassion, discipline, and partnership. Empowerment should never become a license for entitlement, but rather a platform for greater responsibility and impact.
The younger generation must also be guided carefully. Social media trends should not replace timeless virtues. Success should not be measured solely by wealth or appearance, but by character, purpose, and contribution to society.
As Nigeria continues its journey toward development, women will remain central to that progress. But progress requires balance, between rights and responsibilities, ambition and humility, independence and partnership.
The spirit of International Women’s Day reminds us that when women thrive, societies thrive. Yet the theme “Give to Gain” calls for something deeper, a return to the principle that meaningful rewards are built on meaningful contributions.
If Nigerian women continue to embrace the values of generosity, integrity, and partnership, the gains, both personal and national, will be immeasurable.
In the end, the truth remains simple and timeless: the greatest gains in life often come from what we are willing to give.
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