Unilever Nigeria, the nation’s oldest manufacturing company, recently marked International Women’s Day 2026 with a celebration that combined professional development, wellness, and leadership empowerment. The event, themed “In Her Element,” took place at the company’s Ikeja headquarters on March 9 and aimed to showcase how intentional investment in women drives business performance and economic impact.
The hybrid celebration went beyond traditional observances, blending wellness activities, personal branding sessions, and interactive experiences designed to inspire confidence and reflection among women across the organization. Attendees enjoyed professional makeup and headshot sessions, massage treatments, henna artistry, and facial screenings; practical measures that reinforced self-expression, wellbeing, and the importance of nurturing the “whole person” at work.
A highlight of the day was a fireside chat featuring accomplished panellists, including Adenike Ogunlesi, founder of Ruff ‘n’ Tumble; Ife Durosinmi-Etti, founder of Herconomy; and award-winning filmmaker Jade Osiberu. The panel explored leadership, resilience, and legacy-building, offering insights into how women can scale impact while creating opportunities for others.
Ogunlesi encouraged women to invest deliberately in their growth, while Osiberu highlighted consistency and focus as key to longevity in competitive industries. Durosinmi-Etti reinforced the role of financial empowerment and mentorship in fostering sustainable female leadership.
The event also featured creative team-building sessions, including candle-making exercises symbolizing collaboration and innovation. These experiences aimed to strengthen unity among employees while fostering an environment where women feel valued, supported, and heard.
Speaking at the event, Tobi Adeniyi, managing director of Unilever Nigeria, noted that initiatives such as IWD celebrations and Shakti, a programme supporting underserved women in rural areas, reflect the company’s commitment to female inclusion, leadership, and growth. “Investing in women strengthens organisational performance, and the impact extends far beyond the workplace, uplifting families, communities, and the broader economy,” Adeniyi said.
