Pernod Ricard Nigeria Champions Gender Inclusion at International Women’s Day 2026 Event

Pernod Ricard Nigeria Champions Gender Inclusion at International Women’s Day 2026 Event

L-R: Abuchi Peter Ugwu, CEO, Chocolate City Group; Ibukun Aibee Abidoye, Executive Vice-President, Chocolate City Music; Tola Akerele, GM/CEO, National Theatre; Susan Anisa Younis, Founder, SAY Visionaries and Board Member, First Securities Brokers; Elizabeth Anthony, Head of Portfolio, Pernod Ricard Nigeria; and Joshua Ademuwagun, HR Director, Pernod Ricard Nigeria, during a masterclass event organised by Pernod Ricard Nigeria’s Women Network to mark the celebration of International Women’s Day 2026 on the 16th March 2026 at The Art Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos

LAGOS — Pernod Ricard Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to gender equity and inclusive leadership with the hosting of its 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD) event themed “Women Who Raise the Bar.”

The event, convened by the company’s Women Network, brought together female leaders and professionals across business, entrepreneurship, finance, and the creative industries to examine the evolving role of women as drivers of culture, innovation, and leadership.

Aligned with the global IWD theme, “Give to Gain,” discussions centred on how women contribute value through mentorship, access, creativity, and leadership, and how such contributions translate into broader societal and economic progress.

In his welcome address, Managing Director, Michael Ehindero, underscored the organisation’s belief that empowering women to lead and innovate remains critical to sustainable growth. He noted that inclusive leadership not only strengthens organisations but also enhances community development.

A major highlight of the event was a panel session featuring Susan Anisa Younis, Ibukun Abidoye, Abuchi Peter Ugwu, and Tola Akerele, who shared insights on personal growth, leadership, and the importance of shaping narratives within African and global contexts. The panellists emphasised the need for women to build values-driven enterprises, create opportunities, and actively influence cultural storytelling.

The programme also featured a keynote address by the Human Resources Director, Dr. Joshua Ademuwagun, who stressed the importance of creating enabling environments that allow women to thrive. He commended the achievements of women within Pernod Ricard and across its global operations, highlighting their contributions to the company’s continued success.

Participants engaged in conversations around mentorship, overcoming systemic barriers to leadership, and fostering collaboration among women. The discussions also encouraged young women to take intentional steps in designing their career paths and embracing leadership opportunities.

Speaking on the impact of the initiative, Corporate Affairs Manager, Nnenna Duru, described the programme as both reflective and empowering.

According to her, the event served as a reminder for women to be deliberate about supporting one another while confidently owning and celebrating their achievements.

Pernod Ricard Nigeria said the initiative reinforces its long-term commitment to inclusion and diversity, positioning the company as a promoter of women in leadership and a platform for meaningful dialogue at the intersection of culture and business.