By Tochukwu Bliss, Abuja
Rather than wait endlessly for change to happen, Nigerian women have been challenged to grab the reins and make the change.
The Group General Manager, Continental Hotels, Karl Hala, gave the charge on Saturday, at a special reception for women from all walks of life hosted by the hotel in celebration of this year’s International Women’s Day (IWD).
Mr. Hala insisted that women can bring about their desired change because: “You shape policies, drive economies, lead industries, inspire generations—and still, you do it all with elegance, charm, and a touch of magic.”
Against this backdrop, he said the theme for this year’s IWD celebration: ‘Accelerate Action,’ could not be more fitting. “Because let’s be honest—when women take the wheel, things move forward. You don’t wait for change; you make it happen.
“Whether it’s in boardrooms, government halls, creative spaces, or homes—you define progress, not just for women but for Nigeria as a whole.”
He emphasized the importance of accelerating action for women, in line with the theme of the celebration, adding: “When women take the wheel, things move forward.”
The hospitality expert however, charged them to also carry other women along, saying: “But as we accelerate, let’s also uplift. Let’s ensure every woman and girl has the right to dream, the power to act, and the platform to rise. Because when one woman moves forward, we all do.”
Mr. Hala also informed that the Continental Hotels is not just celebrating the women present at the event, but also applauding achievements, while empowering them through enhanced hospitality.
But as we accelerate, let’s also uplift. Let’s ensure every woman and girl has the right to dream, the power to act, and the platform to rise. Because when one woman moves forward, we all do.
He also urged all women to continually keep accelerating action for a more inclusive and equitable future, while emphasizing Continental Hotel’s commitment to gender equality in its operations.
“We have women in key leadership positions, including on our board of directors. Additionally, we have implemented policies and programs to support women’s growth and development, including a nursery for working mothers,” he said.
He noted that with its commitment to gender equity and inclusiveness, Continental Hotel Group, a five-star hospitality giant with operations in Abuja and Lagos, is setting a shining example for other businesses to follow.
“We believe that women have a vital role to play in shaping the hospitality industry. We are committed to providing them with the opportunities and support they need to succeed.”
