By Victor Okoye
Abuja, March 9, 2026 (NAN) Dame Julie Donli, OON, 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 in a statement on Monday in Abuja to mark the 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 2026 bring fresh opportunities, renewed energy, and countless 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 listed practices such as female genital mutilation, child marriage, age manipulation in sports, and other forms of abuse as issues requiring urgent attention.
“Silence only strengthens injustice. We must confront female genital mutilation, child marriage, and every form of abuse against women and girls,” she said.
The Roost Foundation Executive Chairman also expressed optimism about building a more inclusive and equitable society.
“I am excited about the possibilities of a sexual and gender-bias-free society where women and girls can thrive without fear or limitation,” she said.
Donli further disclosed that the Roost Foundation also presented a paper at an event held in Abuja to commemorate International Women’s Day, highlighting the organisation’s work in combating human trafficking and gender-based violence.
According to her, the presentation focused on strengthening collaboration among stakeholders to protect vulnerable women and girls and promote gender justice.
NAN also reports that Donli was honoured with an Award of Excellence at the event as one of the 50 Most Outstanding Women recognised for their contributions to fighting 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 School textbooks and learning materials to Government Girls Secondary School, Dutse and Urban development secondary school Owerri
Donli said the initiative aimed to strengthen 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 is a powerful instrument for shaping the future of young girls and equipping 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. We believe every girl deserves the chance to learn, dream, and succeed,” she said.
She added that project Educate to empower was part of the foundation’s broader mission to promote literacy, leadership, and confidence among young female and male students.
“Our goal is to ensure that girls in public schools are not left behind in accessing quality learning materials,” Donli said.
“We are grateful to NLNG for partnering with us to build a stronger educational foundation for our girls,” she added.
NAN reports that the donated materials include textbooks, reference books, and other educational resources for science and general studies. (NAN)