NDCCITMA celebrates International Women’s Day in Port Harcourt
The Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines and Agriculture (NDCCITMA) marked the 2026 International Women’s Day with the theme “Give to Gain” and sub-theme “Empowering Niger Delta Women through Digital Literacy and Access to Global Market” in Port Harcourt.
Addressing participants at the event, the President of the Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (PHCCIMA), Chinyere Nwoga, charged women to take responsibility for their growth by equipping themselves with the right skills and positioning for leadership. She emphasized that progress should not be built on competition with men but on collaboration, describing men as important partners in advancement.
She urged women to move beyond waiting for opportunities or quotas, and instead prepare themselves through continuous learning, strategic networking, and active participation. Nwoga also encouraged women to confidently project their value, seek mentorship, remain united, and actively engage in professional bodies, noting that unity strengthens influence while division weakens it. She further stressed the importance of self-belief, urging women to affirm their worth regardless of external validation.
The event, held on March 20, 2026, at the conference hall of the Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce, commenced with a welcome address, introduction of the NDCCITMA Women Committee, and acknowledgment of dignitaries.
Members of the committee include Dr. Chinyere Nwoga, Mrs. Affi Isreal Ibanga, Dr. Patricia Ogbonanya, Mrs. Patricia Ihunze, Ada Iroemeh C. Jovita, and Dr. Lynn Ujiagbe.
The first presentation was delivered by Tobore Olumoje on “Empowering Niger Delta Women through Digital Literacy,” where she highlighted collaboration, opportunity-sharing, and knowledge exchange as essential pillars for sustainable women’s empowerment.
The second presentation was delivered by Engr. Dr. Emeka Unachukwu, former PHCCIMA President and founder of Develope U, on “Rights, Justice, Action for All Women and Girls.” She emphasized the need to dismantle gender stereotypes that limit opportunities, waste potential, and hinder societal progress, noting that overcoming these barriers benefits all.
Barr. Cordelia Uwuma Eke, the first female Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Rivers State (Port Harcourt Branch), delivered the third presentation on “Legal Compliance, Leadership and Mentorship in Business.” She described legal compliance as a critical tool for business growth, enabling expansion, access to funding, protection of assets, and long-term sustainability.
The event also featured interactive sessions where participants introduced themselves and their businesses, fostering networking and collaboration.
A major highlight of the celebration was the exhibition of women-led innovations, businesses, and crafts, alongside networking sessions that encouraged partnerships and recognized outstanding contributors in the region.
NDCCITMA reiterated its commitment to advocating for members, strengthening networks, and promoting inclusive prosperity, while the planning chair emphasized that women must earn leadership positions through merit and competence.
As part of its support initiatives, NDCCITMA provided financial assistance to five women to boost their businesses.
In her remarks, Chairman of the Organizing Committee, Mrs. Affi Ibanga, stated that economically empowered women uplift families, communities, and the entire Niger Delta, adding that the event not only celebrated achievements but also set the stage for practical steps toward greater inclusion and shared success.
Dignitaries present included the General Manager of RSTV, Ambassador Paul Damgbor, Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Architects, Rivers State Chapter, Tosan Omatsone, as well as key stakeholders of the NDCCITMA board and members of PHCCIMA, among others.
