UBTH CMD Celebrates Women’s Achievements at LAPO Awards Ceremony

By Rosemary Okoduwa

The Chief Medical Director of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Prof. Idia Ize-Iyamu, on Thursday joined distinguished women from across sectors to celebrate excellence and resilience at the 14th edition of the LAPO Outstanding Women Leadership Award (LOWLA).

The event, organised by the Lift Above Poverty Organisation (LAPO), formed part of activities marking International Women’s Day 2026, spotlighting the achievements and contributions of women in leadership, enterprise, and community development.

The chairman of the occasion, Prof. Ize-Iyamu urged women to remain disciplined and focused in pursuing their aspirations, stressing that resilience and determination are critical to overcoming life’s challenges. She noted that in the face of economic uncertainties, women continue to serve as pillars of stability in families and society.

“As we navigate shifting economic tides, the resilience of our women remains our most stable currency. When a woman rises, a family rises. When women lead, communities prosper. And when women are empowered, nations are transformed,” she said.

She commended LAPO for sustaining the initiative over the past 14 years, describing LOWLA as more than a recognition platform but a movement that inspires collective responsibility in building a better society.

Highlight of the event was the presentation of the LAPO Lifetime Achievement Award to Dr. Nosakhare Aladeselu, founding president of the African Women Empowerment Guild, other awardees included Nkechi Promise Ujunwa, Adebukola Esther Taiwo, and Animashaun Aminat Aderayo, who were recognised across professional, farming, and business categories.

Dignitaries at the event included Dr. Godwin Ehigiamusoe, founder of LAPO and LAPO Microfinance Bank; Faith Negbe Osazuwa-Ojo, President of LAPO; Oyefemi Obazee, Chairperson of the Board of Directors; and Lucy Adesomon Okukpon, Director of the Centre for Gender Studies, University of Benin.