By Roy Ofori, Global Affairs Editor
As the global community prepares to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the World Day of Prayer in 2027, this year’s gathering in Hamburg under the theme “United in Prayer for Justice and Peace” placed a special focus on Nigerian women and served as a reminder that faith must inspire action.
The international movement has long recognized a simple truth: when women gain access to resources, knowledge, and decision-making spaces, entire societies benefit. No nation can truly flourish when half of its population is excluded from opportunity.
A powerful example of this vision in action is the work of the Women & Youth Empowerment and Health Initiative (WYEAHI) in Adamawa State, Nigeria. Through agricultural support, skills training, and access to essential tools, the initiative helps women build sustainable livelihoods while strengthening food security within their communities. Special attention is given to women with disabilities and single mothers. Additional training equips participants with knowledge of their rights and encourages them to participate actively in local decision-making processes.
Beyond economic empowerment, initiatives like this highlight the importance of partnerships that connect grassroots development with global solidarity.
For Nigerian diaspora leader Hon. Kenneth Gbandi, who joined the international prayer gathering in Hamburg, the message is clear: Nigeria must increasingly engage its diaspora as ambassadors and bridge-builders for development.
“The Nigerian diaspora possesses global networks, knowledge, and partnerships that can help connect local initiatives with international opportunities,” he noted. “When we empower women and strengthen collaboration between homeland and diaspora, we unlock a powerful engine for national development.”
As the World Day of Prayer approaches its centennial milestone, the message resonates across borders: prayer must be accompanied by purposeful action. Justice, peace, and sustainable development will only become reality when societies commit to empowering women and building inclusive pathways for all.
