Lagos Women Dance Group Recommits To Empowerment, Fitness

Lagos Women Dance (LWD) initiative has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering women through fitness and wellness, as it marks its seventh year with a celebration that blends sports, health and economic support.

The event, staged in Lagos to coincide with International Women’s Day, saw women from across professions take part in fitness dance routines designed to combat stress and improve health outcomes.

The organisers said the programme has empowered more than 8,000 women since its inception, with this year’s edition awarding business grants to three female entrepreneurs.

Convener, LWD, Angela‑Tony Iji said the initiative was created to help women balance health with the demands of work and family. “Fitness is not just about the body; it’s about longevity and balance. If you make all the money without good health, how are you going to enjoy it?” she asked.

Dance, particularly fitness dance, has been said to reduce risks of depression, obesity and cardiac arrest. LWD’s slogan, “Stress out from fitness to business,” reflects its focus on physical, emotional and financial well‑being.

Founder of the Association of Women in Fashion Tech, Dr Bukola Ajani, linked wellness to stronger business performance. “A healthy business cannot be built by an exhausted entrepreneur. Women often carry multiple responsibilities: Business, family and community leadership. This makes it even more important to protect physical and mental health.

“Future ready women must learn to manage their time, reduce burnout, build sustainable systems and prioritise wellness. A clear mind and healthy body allow women to make stronger business decisions and lead sustainable enterprises,” she said.

Speaking on diversifying business, Ajani said, “In today’s economy, depending on just one income source is risky. Women who want to be future-ready should focus on diversifying how they earn.

“This doesn’t necessarily require launching multiple businesses, it’s about finding ways to expand and add value to the work you already do. So, future ready women must embrace collaboration and learning. No one builds economic power alone. Networking, associations, cooperatives and mentorship programmes will create opportunities and help scale businesses faster.”