Pernod Ricard Marks IWD 2026 with “Women Who Raise the Bar”

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.

By Ayomide Otitoju

Pernod Ricard Nigeria has marked International Women’s Day 2026 with a curated engagement themed “Women Who Raise the Bar,” highlighting the role of women in shaping culture, leadership, and innovation across industries.

The event, organised by the company’s Women Network, brought together professionals from business, finance, entrepreneurship, and the creative sector to explore the impact of women’s contributions in driving progress. It aligned with the global theme “Give to Gain,” emphasising how value creation through mentorship, leadership, and creativity fosters collective growth.

In his opening remarks, Managing Director Michael Ehindero underscored the company’s commitment to inclusive leadership, noting that empowering women to lead and influence strengthens both organisations and communities.

A panel session featuring Susan Anisa Younis, Ibukun Abidoye, Abuchi Peter Ugwu, and Tola Akerele provided insights into leadership, storytelling, and building value-driven enterprises, with discussions centred on women’s roles in shaping narratives and expanding opportunities across sectors.

The programme also included a keynote address by Human Resources Director Joshua Ademuwagun, who highlighted the importance of fostering environments where women can thrive and commended the contributions of female professionals within the organisation and globally.

Discussions further examined mentorship, structural barriers to leadership, and the importance of collaboration among women, while encouraging younger professionals to take intentional steps in defining their career paths.

Reflecting on the initiative, Corporate Affairs Manager Nnenna Duru described the programme as both impactful and reflective, noting its emphasis on supporting and celebrating women’s achievements.

Pernod Ricard Nigeria stated that the initiative reinforces its ongoing commitment to gender inclusion, positioning the company as a promoter of women in leadership and a platform for conversations at the intersection of culture and business.