By Victor Okoye
Dame Julie Donli, Executive Chairman of the Roost Foundation, has called for collective action to eliminate gender bias and harmful practices against women and girls.
Donli made the call on Tuesday in Abuja to mark the 2026 celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD), observed globally on March 8.
She congratulated women and girls, urging them to remain hopeful and resilient while pursuing opportunities for growth and success.
“I extend my warmest wishes to all women this month. May March bring fresh opportunities, renewed energy and possibilities for growth and joy,” she said.
Donli urged Nigerians to use the occasion to speak out against gender bias and discrimination in all spheres of society.
“Let us make this year’s Women’s Day remarkable by raising our voices against gender bias, discrimination and harmful practices affecting women and girls,” she said.
She identified female genital mutilation, child marriage, age manipulation in sports and other abuses as issues requiring urgent attention.
“Silence strengthens injustice. We must confront female genital mutilation, child marriage and all forms of abuse against women and girls,” she said.
She expressed optimism about building a more inclusive and equitable society where women and girls can thrive.
“I am excited about the possibility of a society free from sexual and gender bias, where women and girls can thrive without fear or limitation,” she said.
Donli also disclosed that the Roost Foundation presented a paper at an Abuja event marking International Women’s Day.
According to her, the paper highlighted the organisation’s work in combating human trafficking and gender-based violence.
She said the presentation focused on strengthening collaboration among stakeholders to protect vulnerable women and girls and promote gender justice.
Donli was also honoured with an Award of Excellence as one of the 50 Most Outstanding Women for her contributions to combating human trafficking and gender-based violence.
As part of activities marking the 2026 IWD, the Roost Foundation, in collaboration with Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG), donated textbooks and learning materials to Government Girls Secondary School, Dutse, and Urban Development Secondary School, Owerri.
Donli said the initiative aimed to improve access to educational resources and support academic excellence among female students.
According to her, the donation reflects the foundation’s commitment to empowering girls through quality education and access to learning tools.
“Education remains a powerful instrument for shaping the future of young girls and preparing them to contribute meaningfully to national development,” she said.
Donli noted that books open doors to knowledge, innovation and opportunities for young learners.
“Books open doors to knowledge and opportunities. Every girl deserves the chance to learn, dream and succeed,” she said.
She added that the Educate to Empower Project was part of the foundation’s mission to promote literacy, leadership and confidence among young female and male students.
“Our goal is to ensure girls in public schools are not left behind in accessing quality learning materials,” Donli said.
“We appreciate NLNG for partnering with us to strengthen the educational foundation for our girls,” she added.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the donated materials include textbooks, reference books and other resources for science and general studies. (NAN)
Edited by Tosin Kolade
