In a powerful affirmation of her tireless advocacy for girls’ empowerment, Ambassador Rita Chika Ezenwa, the Founder and Executive Director of Nery Developmental Initiative (NDI), has been officially recognized as a Girls Speak Ambassador by the International Association of World Peace Advocates (IAWPA) in partnership with the United Nations.

The high-level event, themed around empowering 500 Girls and Women Speak Ambassadors, was held at the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja. It brought together female changemakers, diplomats, media partners, and development institutions, including the United Nations and UNESCO. Organized under the auspices of the International Association of World Peace Advocates (IAWPA), the conference celebrated female voices advocating for equity, dignity, and social transformation across Nigeria.

Amb. Rita Chika Ezenwa, who was among the select few honored, described the recognition as both humbling and inspiring. “This isn’t just a title—it’s a call to action,” she said. “For equity. For empowerment. For impact. Every voice matters, and every step forward is for every girl still waiting to be heard.”

A tireless humanitarian and ex-beauty queen, Ezenwa’s selection as Ambassador recognizes her work through NDI, which includes menstrual health advocacy, rights-based education campaigns, elder care programs, and humanitarian outreaches in underserved communities. Her initiatives, particularly focused on advancing girls’ education and gender equality, have earned her local and international recognition.

Speaking to attendees, she emphasized that the recognition was a renewed mandate to expand her advocacy, “not just for the spotlight, but for the countless girls and women whose realities remain unheard and unaddressed.”

The event featured a green carpet session, keynote presentations, and the official inauguration of the 500 Speak Ambassadors, who are expected to amplify the voices of girls and women across different regions.

With this appointment, Amb. Rita Chika Ezenwa joins a growing list of women leaders shaping policies and championing causes that impact the lives of millions. Her work with NDI is set to receive further momentum as she takes on this new role of national importance.