President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to empowering Nigerian women, describing them as protectors of families, drivers of innovation, and catalysts for economic growth.
Speaking at the 9th Voice of Women Conference and Awards in Abuja, the President, represented by the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, praised Nigerian women for their resilience and impact.
“Your voices remain the heartbeat of our country—undaunted, unyielding, and rising to shape a future of equity and progress under the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said.
In his keynote address, Vice President Kashim Shettima, also represented by the Minister of Women Affairs, reiterated the administration’s resolve to unlock the full potential of Nigerian women as family builders and leaders of enterprise.
“Nigerian women and the power of collective action is both timely and timeless, reminding us that women are the backbone of our nation’s resilience and the vanguard of its future,” he noted.
Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim further emphasised that the Reserved Seat Bill is not an act of benevolence but one of justice and strategic necessity.
“By guaranteeing space for women in government, we align with global best practices, ensure a more inclusive democracy, and unlock the full potential of half of Nigeria’s population,” she said.
In her welcome address, Toun Sonaiya, Founder and Convener of the Voice of Women Conference and Awards, urged grassroots women to support women in politics through collective action.
“Your collective votes can move us from passive participants to becoming a decisive force in governance. To be an urban and elite woman, you must be deliberate in bridging the gap,” Sonaiya emphasised.
The event attracted dignitaries from within and outside Nigeria, including Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, former Deputy President of South Africa and former Executive Director of UN Women.
During a fireside chat, Mlambo-Ngcuka stressed the importance of male support in advancing women’s participation in politics and governance.
“Men are important in shaping our careers. I was mentored and sponsored by men, and also supported by women. It mattered because men were already making an impact,” she said.
Ngcuka further highlighted that girls’ education remains critical to building a viable and sustainable society.
The conference also featured an awards segment where individuals and organisations were honoured for outstanding contributions to women’s empowerment and leadership.
PIAK