International Recognition Honours Her Leadership, Advocacy for Women and Humanitarian Impact
By Joy Omagha Idam
The Standup for Women Society (SWS) has celebrated its Founder and National President, Barrister Deborah Ijadele-Adetona, following her recognition as a “Global Woman of Influence” at a prestigious award ceremony held in Singapore on September 19, 2026.
The recognition has been described by the National Executive Council, state chapters and members of SWS across Nigeria and the Diaspora as a significant acknowledgement of Ijadele-Adetona’s years of leadership, advocacy and commitment to women, girls and vulnerable members of society.
In a congratulatory statement issued on Sunday by the Office of the Deputy Director-General, Media, Publicity and Communication, SWS National Headquarters, the organisation described its National President as an “Amazon,” “Mother” and “Visionary Leader,” whose work has continued to attract attention beyond Nigeria.
The statement, signed by Ladi Dinci Emmanuel, Deputy Director-General, Media, Publicity and Communication, SWS, said the global recognition was a testament to the passion, sacrifices and leadership demonstrated by Ijadele-Adetona in advancing the cause of women.
According to the organisation, the award reflects the impact of her efforts in building SWS into a movement committed to restoring hope, dignity and opportunities to women and girls.
“Your life daily inspires us to be bold, to be compassionate, to stand for justice, and to be a voice for the vulnerable women and girls in our society and the nation at large,” the statement noted.
SWS further credited its National President with nurturing the organisation from an idea into what it described as a formidable and impactful platform for women, with activities extending across Nigeria and into the Diaspora.
The society said the international honour had also provided an opportunity for its members to celebrate the broader values of service, advocacy and leadership which they associate with the organisation’s work.
The congratulatory message stated that Ijadele-Adetona’s recognition had brought pride to members of SWS and, in their words, represented another moment of international visibility for Nigerian women making contributions to society.
“Ma, you have made Nigeria proud. You have made every SWS woman proud. You have made womanhood proud,” the organisation stated.
The society expressed optimism that the Singapore recognition would mark the beginning of further international opportunities for its National President to contribute to humanitarian and women-focused causes.
It also offered prayers for greater opportunities and continued impact as Ijadele-Adetona advances her advocacy and leadership work.
The statement concluded with a message from the entire SWS family:
“Congratulations, Our Global Icon!”
The recognition comes as SWS continues its activities around women’s empowerment, advocacy, social responsibility and the protection of vulnerable women and girls.
For the organisation’s members, the Singapore honour represents not only a personal milestone for their National President but also a moment of celebration for the women and communities connected to the SWS movement.
Signed:
Ladi Dinci Emmanuel
Deputy Director-General, Media, Publicity & Communication
Standup for Women Society (SWS)
For and on behalf of all SWS Members
20th September, 2026