Women at NRCRI Drive Innovation and Resilience During 2026 International Women's Day Celebration
The National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI) in Umudike, Abia State, recently marked the 2026 International Women's Day (IWD) with a powerful event themed "Give to Gain." This celebration brought into sharp focus the immense capacity and resilience of women within the institute, aligning with global efforts to honor women's social, economic, cultural, and political achievements. The occasion served as a reaffirmation of NRCRI's commitment to advancing gender equality and creating robust opportunities for women and girls to thrive in the agricultural sector.
Leadership Emphasizes Women's Central Role in Agricultural Innovation
In her welcome address, Dr. Ejechi Mercy, Head of the Gender and Agriculture Unit, explained that the theme "Give to Gain" perfectly mirrors the core mandate of NRCRI, particularly in root and tuber crops research. "As an institute, we give through research, improved crop varieties, and best agronomic practices that enable crops to reach their full production potential. We also provide extension advisory services. In return, we gain food security, economic prosperity for farmers, and a resilient agricultural system," she stated.
Dr. Ejechi further elaborated that this philosophy dispels the fear that empowering women might come at the expense of others. "When women gain, families gain, communities gain, and the institute moves closer to achieving its mandate of food security," she added, underscoring the ripple effect of women's empowerment.
Executive Director Highlights Strategic Investment in Women
Professor Chiedozie Egesi, the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of NRCRI, described the celebration as a vital opportunity to recognize women as a central force behind the institute's strength and impact. "Today, we gather not just to celebrate a day, but to acknowledge a force that is central to the strength, relevance, and impact of our institute. The women of NRCRI are not just contributors; they are catalysts, drivers of innovation, and key players in Nigeria's food and nutrition security," he proclaimed.
Professor Egesi noted that women constitute approximately 60 percent of the institute's workforce and reaffirmed management's unwavering commitment to supporting their growth and advancement. He emphasized that investing in women is a strategic decision with far-reaching benefits. "When we invest in women, we are making a high-yield investment, not a concession. We are deliberate about creating an enabling environment where women do not just participate but lead and excel," he asserted.
He also reiterated the institute's zero-tolerance policy for gender-based violence, harassment, and discrimination, while encouraging female staff to take on leadership roles, mentor others, and continue excelling in their respective fields.
Other Leaders Echo Support for Women's Contributions
Dr. Benjamin Okoye, Director of the NRCRI Extension Programme and Chairman of the occasion, described women as critical drivers of innovation in agriculture, contributing significantly to food security, poverty reduction, and wealth creation. Similarly, Dr. Tessy Madu, Director of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, and Gender Focal Lead, stated that the event was organized to celebrate the strength, resilience, and contributions of women within the institute. "The theme 'Give to Gain' reminds us that when we invest in women, everyone benefits. We must continue to push boundaries, achieve excellence, and build a better future," she remarked.
Health Lecture and Panel Discussion Add Depth to Celebrations
The event featured a lecture titled "Taking Care of Our Eyes in the Proper Way," delivered by Dr. Chioma Uchendu, a Consultant Ophthalmologist at the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia. Dr. Uchendu emphasized the importance of regular comprehensive eye examinations and cautioned against seeking care from unqualified practitioners. "A comprehensive eye examination can detect more than 100 medical conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke risk, high blood pressure, and cancer, often providing early warning signs," she explained.
She cited alarming data from the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, noting that globally, about 43 million people are living with blindness, while 295 million have moderate to severe visual impairment. In Nigeria, the National Blindness and Visual Impairment Survey estimates that 1.13 million people aged 40 and above are blind, with an additional 3.4 million suffering from moderate or severe visual impairment. She highlighted that approximately 84 percent of blindness cases are preventable or treatable, often referred to as "needless blindness."
The celebration also included motivational testimonies and a panel discussion that highlighted the need for women to support one another, promote gender balance, and mentor the next generation. Dr. Mrs. Chinyere Anaedu, a retired Director of the institute, served as the Mother of the Day, adding a touch of honor and legacy to the proceedings.
Overall, the 2026 International Women's Day at NRCRI was a resounding success, showcasing how women are pivotal to innovation and resilience in agricultural research, while also addressing broader health and empowerment issues that affect their well-being and productivity.
