As an event organizer in Nigeria, making sure all guests feel comfortable is key but women, especially, face unique challenges that you shouldn’t overlook. Whether it’s a wedding, concert, seminar, or corporate event, here are down-to-earth tips to ensure your female guests feel safe, respected, and catered for.

1. Clean and Accessible Restrooms (Very Important!)

This might seem basic, but in Nigeria, many events still struggle with neat, female-friendly toilets. Provide enough restrooms, ensure they’re clean, have water, tissue, soap, and very importantly sanitary bins or disposal bags. If possible, get a female attendant to maintain them during the event.

✅ Pro Tip: For outdoor or open-space events, rent mobile toilets that are well-maintained. Women won’t want to stay long if the toilets are a mess.

2. Create a Safe and Secure Environment

Security is a big deal, especially for women attending events late in the day. Make sure your event venue is well-lit, properly guarded, and has clear emergency exits. Female guests should not feel unsafe moving around the venue.

✅ Pro Tip: Hire professional female security officers to help monitor female only areas and offer support.

3. Provide Seating and Rest Zones

In Nigerian events, it’s common to stand a lot from long queues to endless dancing. But not every female guest will be comfortable standing or walking around for long. Pregnant women, nursing mothers, or elderly women especially need comfy spaces to rest.

✅ Pro Tip: Designate chill zones with soft chairs and fans, especially for outdoor events. Add mirrors and tissues to help women freshen up.

4. Offer Female-Centric Essentials

Sometimes, it’s the small things that show thoughtfulness. Offer complimentary items like:

Sanitary pads or tampons in the bathroom

Safety pins, wipes, or even hairbands

Shawls or wraps for cold indoor halls

✅ Pro Tip: You can even create a mini “Ladies’ Care Corner” at your event.

5. Dress Code Clarity & Respect

If your event has a dress code, be clear about it and ensure it’s respectful. Some women may prefer modest wear or might be uncomfortable with revealing styles.

✅ Pro Tip: Avoid policing women’s clothing at the gate. If you must have a dress policy, communicate it before the event via invites or online.

6. Design Inclusive Programs

Let’s be real many Nigerian events are male-dominated in speech, music, or hosting. Ensure your event content speaks to women too.

✅ Pro Tip: Involve female MCs, speakers, or DJs. Choose themes and music that represent all genders.

7. Support for Mothers

If your event allows kids or expects mothers, provide a designated breastfeeding or baby care space. This can be a quiet corner with a chair, fan, and privacy.

✅ Pro Tip: For long conferences or church programs, this gesture is highly appreciated.

8. Transportation and Parking Safety

Think about how your female guests will get home especially at night. Provide secure parking, clear signage, and consider partnering with ride-hailing services like Bolt or Uber for discounted rides.

✅ Pro Tip: Have bouncers or security personnel patrol the parking lot for added safety.

Conclusion

A truly successful event doesn’t just impress it cares. When your female guests feel safe, comfortable, and considered, they’re more likely to stay longer, engage fully, and even recommend your event to others. As an event organizer in Naija, these small touches make all the difference.