Industrialist makes case for empowering women for leadership, STEM
By Rukayat Moisemhe
An industrialist, Mrs Funlayo Bakare-Okeowo, has outlined key action plans to support women in leadership, business, and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.
Bakare-Okeowo, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of FAE Envelopes Ltd., have the outline at the Lagos Business School (LBS) 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) event on Saturday.
She emphasised the need for women to access continuous leadership development and professional growth opportunities to thrive in their careers.
According to her, these opportunities include formal training programmes, leadership workshops, and executive coaching.
She highlighted female leaders like Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Mo Abudu, and Dr Lisa Su as proof that women can lead industries to new heights.
The industrialist stressed that investing in women’s economic empowerment fosters gender equality, poverty eradication, and inclusive economic growth.
She noted that women contribute significantly to economies—whether in business, farming, entrepreneurship, employment, or unpaid care work at home.
“One major way to support women in STEM is by establishing strong mentorship programmes offering guidance, support, and networking opportunities to advance their careers,” she said.
She explained that pairing women with experienced mentors builds confidence and provides access to vital industry knowledge.
“Both formal and informal mentorship opportunities are valuable. Formal programmes offer structured meetings and goals, while informal mentoring occurs through casual conversations and peer interactions,” she added.
Bakare-Okeowo also advocated for gender-responsive infrastructure to meet the needs of women and girls, enabling inclusive and sustainable development.
She said infrastructure systems such as energy, transport, water, sanitation, schools, housing, hospitals, waste management, and digital communications could empower women.
She called for greater participation of women and girls in sports and creative arts, urging targeted efforts to create an inclusive and supportive environment.
“A Nigeria where women and girls thrive is a Nigeria that prospers.
“Empowering women and girls is not just a moral imperative; it is a catalyst for Nigeria’s economic growth, social development, and national progress,” she stated. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng).
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo
Published By
- Agriculture and Environment Desk Editor, Website Content Manager.
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