A governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prince Kola Asatola Asanike, has described women as pillars of society whose roles in nation building cannot be ignored.
Asanike made the remark in a statement issued in Ibadan to commemorate the 2026 International Women’s Day.
He said that from the beginning of human society, women have played prominent roles in building homes, communities and nations.
According to him, the success of any man, family or nation cannot be achieved without the support and contributions of women.
He added that the importance of women’s roles in society informed the call by the United Nations (UN) for greater affirmation of women and the promotion of gender equality.
“There is virtually no role being played by men today that women are not equally performing, if not better,” he said.
The APC governorship aspirant stressed that women should be encouraged to take more active roles in governance and leadership, noting that they have continued to excel in positions of authority across the world.
International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on March 8, commemorates women’s struggle for equality, liberation and recognition. The day also highlights issues such as gender equality and reproductive rights. The celebration originated from labour movements in Europe and North America in the early 20th century.
Speaking further, Asanike noted that Nigeria has produced several courageous women who fought for social justice and the advancement of women’s rights.
He called on the younger generation of women to emulate prominent figures such as the late Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, Iyalode Efunsetan Aniwura and Madam Tinubu, whom he said played significant roles in advancing the status of women in their time.
The APC chieftain also condemned domestic violence against women, stressing that the time has come for societies across the world to eradicate the practice and accord women the respect they deserve both at home and in public life.
He further called for an end to discrimination against women, particularly in Africa, including Nigeria.
Asanike also raised concerns over underage marriage in some parts of the country, describing it as a form of child abuse that must be addressed.
While congratulating women on the occasion of International Women’s Day, he urged young girls to shun criminal activities and advised parents to closely monitor their female children.
He also encouraged parents to prioritise the education of their daughters, noting that proper education would enable them to compete favourably with their male counterparts and contribute meaningfully to national development.