At LAPO Leadership Award, UBTH CMD Tasks Women on Resilience, Determination

Prof. Ize-Iyamu                                  

Hendrix Oliomogbe 

The Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Prof. Idia Ize-Iyamu has called on Nigerian women to be resilient and determined in overcoming challenges and achieving success.

Prof. Ize-Iyamu lauded Lift Above Poverty (LAPO) for its commitment to women's empowerment through the LOWLA initiative over the past 14 years noted that LOWLA served as a clarion call to action, adding that a better society can be achieved when individuals support and uplift one another. 

At the 14th edition of the event, which commemorated the International Women's Day 2026 and recognized the achievements and contributions of women in various fields, the CMD who joined a diverse group of women to celebrate the award, said that as Nigerians navigate shifting economic tides, the resilience of women remained the most stable currency. 

He said: "When a woman rises, a family rises. When women lead, communities prosper. And when women are empowered, nations are transformed.

She continued: "I commend LAPO for sustaining this noble vision for fourteen years. This award is more than recognition - it is a call to action and a reminder that a better society is possible when we choose to uplift one another." 

With the theme, "Give to Gain," Mrs. Ize-Iyamu, who chaired the occasion, advised women to maintain discipline and remain focus in the pursuit of their goals. 

She commended women for their vision, value, action, and multiplying impact and advised them to pursue their dreams.

The event honored women in various careers with awards, including the LAPO Lifetime Achievement Award presented to Founding President of the African Women Empowerment Guild, Dr.(Mrs) Nosakhare Aladeselu. 

Nkechi Promise Ujunwa, Mrs. Adebukola Esther Taiwo, and Animashaun Aminat Aderayo received awards in the professional, farming, and business categories, respectively. 

Also present at the ceremony were , Dr. Godwin Ehigiamusoe, founder of LAPO and Microfinance Bank; President of LAPO, Barr.(Mrs.) Faith Negbe Osazuwa-Ojo; Chairperson of the Board of Directors LAPO, Dr.(Mrs) Oyefemi Obazee; Director of the Center for Gender Studies UNIBEN, Prof (Mrs) Lucy Adesomon Okukpon, amongst others.