The 18th edition of the ARISE Women’s Conference ended on a high note at the Grand Ballroom of the Lagos Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, amidst glitz, glamour and resounding impact.
Convened by Dr. Siju Iluyomade, this year’s edition themed *“IMPACT – Monumental, Unstoppable, Transformational”* brought together first ladies, top corporate executives, prominent Nigerian women and notable personalities to discuss female empowerment, human upliftment and sustainable community development.
Thousands of women, all adorned in the signature free *ARISE Ankara*, filled the ballroom for a day of high-powered keynote speeches, networking and soul-lifting gospel music.
*Speakers Inspire*
Prof. Rufus Ojewola, a prostate health expert from the University of Lagos, enlightened participants on risk factors and the need for middle-aged men to know their prostate status.
Dr. Annette Akinsette, National Director of the Sickle Cell Centre, spoke on managing sickle cell disorder, assuring participants that with early detection and proper medical care, the condition can be effectively managed.
Flutterwave co-founder, Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, delivered an inspiring session on setting children up for destiny, while NBA President, Oyinkansola Badejo-Okunsanya, shared her personal story of resilience and motivation.
Other distinguished speakers included Dr. Adedayo Benjamin-Laniyi, DG/CEO, Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development, who represented the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim; Pastor Odo Otu, representing the First Lady of Cross River State, Mrs. Eyoanwan-Itam Bassey Otu; Mrs. Oluwabukola Mayungbo, representing the wife of the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat; and Mr. Osaro Eghobamien, SAN.
*Gospel Vibes and Humanitarian Honour*
The atmosphere came alive with electrifying performances from gospel stars *Alaseyori, Tosin Alao and Dare Justified*.
A major highlight was the presentation of a prestigious humanitarian award to Dr. Siju Iluyomade by the Women’s Wing of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), in recognition of her impactful life and commitment to empowering the less privileged through the ARISE platform.
*Pink Buckets and Wellness Walk*
In keeping with tradition, thousands of less-privileged women left the venue with the signature *Arise Pink Bucket* containing foodstuffs and household essentials.
The conference was preceded by the popular *ARISE Walk for Life* on Saturday, October 31, which saw participants walk across the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge and other parts of Victoria Island to promote fitness, wellness and preventive healthcare.
Beyond the two-day celebration, the ARISE movement continues its year-round impact through free medical services at the ARISE Medical Centre in Abuja and various skill acquisition programmes for women across the country.
