IWD 2026: Chima Anyaso’s ‘Give to Gain’ Empowerment Transforming Women’s Lives in Abia
“Dr. Chimaobi Desmond Anyaso’s “Give to Gain” philosophy focuses on empowering women through financial support, healthcare outreach, education and small-business grants. His initiatives across Bende Federal Constituency in Abia State have supported thousands of women, petty traders, widows and families, demonstrating how community-driven philanthropy can strengthen local economies and social welfare.”
“Across communities in Abia State, hundreds of women are rewriting their stories — moving from economic struggle to opportunity. For many widows, petty traders and rural mothers, the support they received from philanthropist Dr. Chimaobi Desmond Anyaso has become more than financial assistance; it represents hope, dignity and a pathway to stability. As the world marks International Women’s Day 2026, his growing empowerment initiatives are drawing attention as a practical example of how the theme “Give to Gain” can transform lives at the grassroots.”
International Women’s Day (IWD), observed globally on March 8, celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women while highlighting the ongoing struggle for gender equality, reproductive rights and the elimination of discrimination and violence against women.
The 2026 International Women’s Day theme, “Give to Gain,” promotes generosity, collaboration and shared progress. The campaign underscores the idea that investing in people and communities ultimately produces collective prosperity and sustainable development.
For many observers in Abia State, this philosophy closely reflects the leadership approach of Dr. Chimaobi Desmond Anyaso, widely known as “Ofuji Ndi Igbo.”
An Abia-born entrepreneur, industrialist and philanthropist, Dr. Anyaso has earned recognition for combining business success with strong social impact. Beyond his ventures in real estate development and the hospitality and entertainment industry, he has built a reputation for community-focused philanthropy.
His contributions to social development have earned him several honours, including the Forbes-rated African Achievers Award for Community Development, the Democracy Youth Icon of the Year Award (2017) and recognition by Vanguard and Champion Newspapers as one of Nigeria’s Top 20 Business Professionals in 2023.
In the same year, Champion Newspapers named him Entrepreneur of the Year, while Vanguard Newspaper honoured him as Real Estate Icon of the Year 2024.
Most recently, on March 1, 2026, Dr. Anyaso received the Silverbird Trailblazer Award 2025, further affirming his growing influence in business, youth development and philanthropy.
These recognitions reflect his longstanding commitment to improving lives and strengthening communities.
Empowering Women at the Grassroots
Across Bende Federal Constituency, Dr. Anyaso’s empowerment initiatives have supported thousands of people, particularly women and vulnerable groups.
Through youth empowerment programmes, skills acquisition initiatives, scholarships, welfare interventions and community development projects, beneficiaries have included widows, market women, farmers, students, elderly citizens and children from disadvantaged homes.
Over the years, he has also sponsored periodic free medical outreaches, delivering essential healthcare services to rural communities.
Many of the beneficiaries are women who otherwise have limited access to quality healthcare, making the interventions critical to improving grassroots health outcomes.
COVID-19 Intervention
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Anyaso — through the Chima Anyaso Foundation — distributed food items and medical supplies across Abia State to support vulnerable families affected by lockdown measures.
The intervention provided relief for many households grappling with the economic impact of the global health crisis.
Investing in Education
Education has remained a central pillar of his philanthropic work.
Through personal initiatives and foundation programmes, Dr. Anyaso has funded scholarships for numerous students while also establishing the Ahuoma Anyaso Educational Foundation, a school designed to provide free access to quality education for children.
The institution has reportedly supported over 5,000 pupils, many of whom might otherwise have lacked access to formal education.
Economic Empowerment for Women
Dr. Anyaso’s initiatives also extend to grassroots economic development.
He has provided grants to farmers, petty traders and small business owners to support their livelihoods.
On February 6, 2026, he launched the “Ofuji Bende Women Petty Traders Cash Support Initiative,” through which more than 100 women received ₦200,000 each to strengthen their businesses and support their families.
Observers say the initiative is helping stimulate small-scale commerce while contributing to sustainable local economic growth.
“When Women Are Empowered, Communities Thrive”
Speaking during the 2026 conference of the Catholic Women Organisation (CWO) held at Mater Dei Cathedral, Umuahia, on February 14, Dr. Anyaso emphasised the importance of empowering women.
“When women are empowered, communities thrive,” he said.
He also commended women for their resilience, sacrifices and contributions to family life, the Church and society.
Beyond Politics: A People-Centred Approach
In the political sphere, Dr. Anyaso has repeatedly emphasised the need to bridge the gap between politics and governance.
His approach prioritises tangible results and people-centred leadership focused on improving lives rather than pursuing political rhetoric.
For many residents of Abia State, his initiatives reflect the true essence of the “Give to Gain” philosophy — the belief that genuine generosity and service to humanity ultimately create lasting social impact.
As the world celebrates International Women’s Day 2026, the message resonates strongly: empowering women strengthens families, communities and entire economies.
For thousands of women across Bende Federal Constituency, that impact is already becoming a reality.
