Nigerian women deserve to be empowered and encouraged to continue to contribute to national development, Group General Manager, Continental Hotel Group, Karl Hala, has said.
Hala spoke on Saturday in Abuja during a special reception to honour women to commemorate the 2025 International Women’s Day.
He said the event organised to celebrate women’s achievements was part of the Group’s dedication and commitment to fostering a culture of inclusivity and empowerment as well as promoting diversity, equity, and inclusiveness.
Expressing admiration for the women who attended the event, Hala acknowledged their outstanding contributions to national development across various sectors of the economy.
“Each of you in this room is a force to reckoned with,” he said. “You shape policies, drive economies, lead industries, and inspire generations—all while carrying yourselves with grace, resilience, and an undeniable touch of brilliance.”
Accelerating Action toward Gender Equity
Hala emphasized the importance of taking decisive actions toward gender equity, urging women to continue pushing boundaries and creating change.
“When women take the wheel, things move forward. You don’t wait for change; you make it happen,” he remarked.
Empowering Women, Enhancing Society
Hala encouraged women to keep striving for excellence and accelerate progress toward a more inclusive and equitable society.
He also called for collective support to uplift women and girls, ensuring they have access to opportunities, resources, and platforms to thrive. “Because when one woman moves forward, we all do,” he added.
Commitment to Gender Equity
Speaking on Continental Hotel Group’s commitment to gender equity, Hala assured that the company would continue to create an inclusive workplace for women.
“We have women in key leadership positions, including on our board of directors,” he noted. “Our policies actively support women’s career growth, including initiatives such as a nursery for working mothers.”
Supporting Women beyond International Women’s Day
Hala reiterated Continental Hotel Group’s commitment to supporting women far beyond International Women’s Day, pointing out that the company remains dedicated to providing women with the opportunities and support they need to succeed, because it believes women play a crucial role in shaping the future of the hospitality industry.
Praise for Continental Hotel Group’s Leadership
A financial wellness advocate, Violet Olalekan-Alabi commended the hotel group for its leadership in championing gender equity.
“It’s truly inspiring to see a hospitality giant like Continental Hotel Group taking deliberate steps to empower women and foster inclusivity,” she said.
A Call to Action
The event drew an array of guests, including government officials, business leaders, and prominent figures from both the public and private sectors, with several attendees praising the hospitality group for its dedication to creating a more inclusive industry and society.
“Continental Hotel Group has continued to champion gender equity and inclusiveness, by setting a shining example for other businesses to follow. By empowering women and providing them with opportunities and support, the company is helping to create a more inclusive and equitable society for all,” they said.
