Four outstanding women have been honoured with the award of N2 million by the Lift Above Poverty Organisation as part of activities marking the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD).
The beneficiaries were recognised at the 14th edition of the LAPO Outstanding Women Leadership Award held in Benin City, Edo State, for distinguishing themselves in business, agriculture, professional service and lifetime achievement.
The award went to Amimashaun Aminat Aderayo from Oyo State, while Adebukola Esther Taiwo from Osun State clinched the farming category.
The professional award was presented to Nkechi Promise Ajunwa from Delta State, while the lifetime achievement award was conferred on Dr Nosakhare Ikpomwonsa Aladeselu, founding president of the African Women Empowerment Guild.
Speaking at the event, chairperson, LAPO Board of Directors, Dr Oyefemi Obazee, said the award was instituted to celebrate and encourage women who have demonstrated resilience and success through partnership with the organisation in promoting financial inclusion, agricultural development and socio-economic impact.
Obazee noted that the initiative aligned with the 2026 International Women’s Day themed: ‘Give to Gain’, adding that the organisation has consistently witnessed women transforming their lives and those of their families through determination and hard work.
Chairperson of the occasion and Chief Medical Director of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Professor Idia Ize-Iyamu, described women as critical drivers of societal progress, stressing that their resilience remains a stabilising force in Nigeria’s evolving economic landscape.
In her remarks, president of LAPO, Faith Osazuwa-Ojo, said the 2026 theme reflects the organisation’s commitment to ensuring that women are recognised, supported and celebrated as agents of change.
Also, Professor Lucy Okukpon commended women for their increasing contributions to global development, stressing that meaningful gains can only be achieved through purposeful giving and collective effort.