The Nigerian Government has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing women’s empowerment, inclusive governance, and social protection through the Renewed Hope Agenda, positioning Nigeria as a continental example of inclusive development.
The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahi made the declaration at the Women Empowerment Programme held at the Olowu Palace, Owu Kingdom, Ogun State in Southwest Nigeria on Wednesday.
“The Renewed Hope Agenda of our dear President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is more than a policy; it is a promise. A promise that women will no longer stand at the margins, that children will no longer be left voiceless, that families will be strengthened, and that the vulnerable will be carried along as Nigeria rises to greatness,” Sulaiman-Ibrahi said.
The Minister praised Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, and the First Lady, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, for their leadership and what she described as “steadfast commitment to pro-women policies.”
“Ogun State has distinguished itself as a shining model, particularly in the implementation of the Nigeria for Women Programme… Your leadership has shown that where there is political will, transformation is inevitable,” the Minister explained.
She further commended the Deputy Governor, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, and the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Motunrayo Adijat Adeleye, stressing that their “dedication and vision are shaping programmes that resonate with the dreams and aspirations of women, children, and families across this state.”
Royal Palace as Catalyst for Progress
Turning to the traditional ruler, Saka Matemilola, Oluyalo Otileta VII, the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, the Minister applauded his role in blending heritage with empowerment.
She said; “By blending heritage with empowerment, you have demonstrated that culture can be a powerful ally of progress. This palace has become a beacon of inclusion and advancement for women.”
Renewed Hope Interventions and CEDAW City Status
The Minister highlighted the Federal Ministry’s Renewed Hope Social Impact Intervention Programmes–774, designed to reach all local governments nationwide.
She observed that “here in Owu Kingdom, the Olowu’s project is a powerful demonstration that traditional institutions can manifest their commitment to women in practical ways.”
Sulaiman-Ibrahi also disclosed that Ogun State had been adopted as one of seven CEDAW Cities on the margins of the 2025 CSW69 Session, describing the honour as “a model of how international commitments can be translated into local realities; empowering women, uplifting families, and strengthening communities.”
Lówù Hope Initiative Launched
The Minister expressed delight at the launch of the Lówù Hope Initiative, calling it a community-driven empowerment platform designed to provide women with access to capital, vocational skills, agricultural support, and digital literacy.
On behalf of the Ministry, she pledged concrete support saying; “We will empower three farmer women in this community under the WAVE Project. We also stand firmly behind the Women Empowerment Fund being launched today under the Lówù Hope Initiative, a wellspring through which women will gain access to capital, skills, digital literacy, and resilience.”
The Minister stressed that initiatives such as the Lówù Hope Fund would not only expand women’s economic opportunities but also strengthen households and stimulate local economies across Ogun State.
Call to Action
Sulaiman-Ibrahim urged replication of the initiative nationwide, declaring: “May this initiative ripple across Nigeria, urging other traditional institutions to follow suit and create enduring legacies for women. For when we empower women, we empower families; when we lift mothers, we lift nations; and when we restore dignity, we restore humanity.”
The event attracted top state officials, traditional leaders, partners, women leaders, and beneficiaries who described the initiative as a timely intervention to boost women’s economic independence and dignity.
PIAK