Barrister Falilat Oluwatoyin Orire, Country Representative of the African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) and Deputy Registrar of the Court of Appeal, Ilorin Division, has called on members to actively resist the intentional disenfranchisement of African women across all spheres of society.

Her remarks, delivered on the sidelines of 2025 Africa Women's Day commemorations in Ilorin, Kwara State, underscored this year's theme: "Advancing Social and Economic Justice for African Women Reparationism."

Barrister Orire stated: "This year's celebrations align with AWLA's mission to secure justice for all. We must confront systemic barriers that exclude African women from political, economic, and social participation. Each year, we honour women's pivotal role in Africa's liberation and their ongoing struggle to elevate the continent's social and economic status."

The event highlighted AWLA's commitment to dismantling structural inequalities and advancing reparative justice for women through legal advocacy and policy reform.

"Africa's Women's Day was proclaimed as a day to be commemorated during the first conference of the Pan-African Women's Organization (PAWO) which was held in July 1962 in Dar es Salaam Tanganyika (now known as Tanzania).

"Today, we mark the significant role of African women in the evolution of a strong Pan-African identity, with shared values, objectives and vision for the future, as well as women being key contributors towards achieving Africa's inclusive growth and sustainable development agenda for a prosperous and peaceful Africa".

Orire added: "International African Women's Day reminds us of the contribution of African women and that they continue to be agents of change and progress.

"It is therefore an invitation to redouble our efforts to promote the empowerment and better future for all".

She therefore said, "AWLA Nigeria recognises and honours the crucial role of women in the history and development of Africa, we contribute together to build a world that is more just, egalitarian and respectful".