The Wife of the Governor of Anambra State, Mrs Nonye Soludo has called for increased investment in Nigerian, African women and girls, urging governments, development partners, and institutions to promote inclusive policies that expand opportunities and remove barriers limiting their full participation in socio-economic development.
Mrs Soludo made the call in a statement commemorating the International Day of Women and Girls of African Descent, marked annually to celebrate the contributions, resilience, and achievements of women and girls of African descent across the world.
The 2026 commemoration is themed, “The Power of Representation: Women and Girls of African Descent Leading with Strength.”
In her message, Mrs Soludo said the theme underscores the importance of ensuring that women and girls are not only seen but are actively included in leadership, decision-making, and development processes.
She stressed that sustained investment in education, mentorship, entrepreneurship, healthcare, and leadership development remains critical to empowering women and girls, achieving sustainable development, and building stronger societies.
According to her, “meaningful representation goes beyond visibility, as it requires creating platforms where women and girls can influence policies, drive innovation, and inspire future generations.”
The Anambra First Lady said providing an enabling environment for girls to realise their full potential, would strengthen families, communities, and national development.
She noted that Nigerian women and girls continue to demonstrate resilience and excellence despite socio-economic challenges, making significant contributions across various sectors, including business, agriculture, education, healthcare, governance, and community development.
Mrs Soludo called for improved access to quality education, healthcare services, and economic opportunities, while advocating stronger protection against gender-based violence and all forms of discrimination.
She also encouraged young girls to remain focused, pursue their aspirations, and have confidence in their abilities.
Mrs Soludo further urged Africans on the continent and in the diaspora to preserve the continent’s rich cultural heritage while embracing innovation, inclusion, and sustainable development.
Describing African women as catalysts for progress, she said “they continue to contribute meaningfully as entrepreneurs, educators, innovators, peacebuilders, and community leaders.”
She called on governments, development agencies, and the private sector to implement policies and programmes that dismantle structural barriers and create greater opportunities for women and girls of African descent.
Mrs Soludo reaffirmed her commitment to advancing the welfare of women and children through the Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative, which promotes preventive healthcare, nutrition, environmental sustainability, and women’s empowerment.
She urged stakeholders to translate commitments into concrete actions that would improve the lives of Nigerian women and girls, as well as women across Africa.
The Anambra First Lady expressed confidence that stronger collaboration among governments, civil society organisations, traditional institutions, and the private sector would foster a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous future for the continent.
