New Year 2026: Dr. Gloria Shoda Calls on Women in Nigeria, Africa, and the World to Rise, Lead, and Thrive

New Year 2026: Dr. Gloria Shoda Calls on Women in Nigeria, Africa, and the World to Rise, Lead, and Thrive

As the world ushers in the New Year 2026, Dr. Gloria Laraba Shoda, former President of the National Council for Women’s Societies (NCWS), Nigeria, President of the African Regional Council of Women (ARCW), and a Board Member of the International Council of Women (ICW), has extended a powerful New Year message to women in Nigeria, across Africa, and around the globe.

In her goodwill message, Dr. Shoda described the New Year as a moment of reflection, renewal, and responsibility, urging women to step boldly into leadership, purpose, and collective action.

“The beginning of a new year offers us the opportunity to reflect with gratitude on how far we have come, while embracing the courage and clarity required to shape a better future,” she said.

The beginning of a new year offers us the opportunity to reflect with gratitude on how far we have come, while embracing the courage and clarity required to shape a better future.

Dr. Shoda highlighted the critical role women continue to play in nation-building, peace, and sustainable development, noting that women remain the backbone of families, communities, institutions, and economies worldwide.

Calling on women to rise beyond limitations, she encouraged them to embrace education, economic empowerment, ethical leadership, and advocacy for social justice, while mentoring the next generation of girls to lead with confidence and integrity.

“As women, we must affirm our worth, raise our voices, and occupy our rightful spaces. When women rise, societies thrive,” she emphasized.

Drawing from her extensive leadership experience at national, continental, and global levels, Dr. Shoda reaffirmed her commitment to advancing women’s rights and strengthening collaboration across generations and borders.

She also expressed hope for peace, unity, and renewed opportunities in the New Year, particularly for women and young people facing social and economic challenges.

Dr. Shoda concluded by wishing women across the world a New Year filled with good health, fulfillment, renewed strength, and unwavering hope, urging them to make 2026 a year of impact, inclusion, and purposeful leadership.