The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has urged Nigerian women to unite their numerical strength, economic influence and grassroots networks to secure greater political representation and improved welfare ahead of the 2027 general elections.
She made the call in Abuja at the Women’s Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (WOWICAN) assembly, to mark the 50th anniversary of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).
She announced the government’s initiative to mobilise 10 million women into a formidable political force.
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“Through ‘The Power of 10 Million, we are organising, uniting and mobilising 10 million Nigerian women across every state, ward and community into an irresistible negotiation bloc,” she said.
Represented by the Chairperson of the Governing Board of the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development, Princess Jummai Idonije, the minister said women must move beyond seeking inclusion to strategically exercising their collective electoral influence.
“We are no longer asking for a seat at the table; we are demanding it with the weight of 10 million votes,” she declared.
She said the initiative would strengthen women’s capacity to negotiate improved healthcare, quality education, security, financial grants and equitable representation in governance.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim described the movement’s slogan, “One Voice. One Movement. One Choice. One Mandate,” as a framework for promoting solidarity and political participation among women.
She commended WOWICAN members for their contributions to families, churches and national development, noting that CAN’s five decades of progress could not be separated from women’s devotion, labour and leadership.
“The history of CAN over these 50 years cannot be written without the unwavering devotion, intercession, labour and leadership of Nigerian women,” she said.
On policy reforms, the minister said her ministry had reviewed more than 38 policies and standard operating procedures across its areas of responsibility.
She stated that efforts were underway to review the National Gender Policy and implement the third National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security.
She urged faith leaders and community stakeholders to participate actively in implementing the frameworks to ensure women and girls benefit from the policies.
The minister also highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of 2026 as the Year of Families and Social Development, describing it as an opportunity to prioritise family welfare, social protection, child security and women’s economic stability.
Acknowledging the contributions of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu through the Renewed Hope Initiative, she emphasised women’s importance to national development.
“Your choices matter. Your voices count. You are central to the scheme of things in Nigeria,” she said.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim urged participants to translate the anniversary celebration into action by spreading the message of unity and empowerment through their fellowships, markets and communities.
“Let us rise from this 50th Anniversary celebration not just inspired, but mobilised!” she added.
