Minister advocates stronger female voices in governance
By Daniel Obaje
The Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has called for increased commitment and action from Nigerian women towards inclusive governance, economic participation, and national development.
She made the call at a One-Day Women’s Town Hall Meeting and Citizens Engagement on Wednesday in Abuja.
Speaking under the theme “Accelerating Women’s Voices in National Development”, Sulaiman-Ibrahim urged women to take ownership of their roles in society and work collectively to achieve meaningful change.
“The reason why we are here is because we want what is best for ourselves, for the Nigerian women, for our community, for our families.”
The Minister underscored the importance of the proposed special reserve seats bill at the National Assembly, which aims to ensure fair representation of women in governance.
She highlighted how women must be strategic, united and forward-thinking in their pursuit of political and economic empowerment.
“We are the voting strength of this country; we and our children.
“That gives us the permission to negotiate for anything because we will stick to our words, we have to be masters in negotiating.
“We have to strengthen our mechanisms. We have to mentor ourselves. Days are gone when five women come out for one seat and split the votes.”
Mrs Hauwa Ibrahim, wife of the Ona of Abaji and President of the FCT Traditional Rulers Wives Association, praised the collaborative and inclusive tone of the engagement, emphasising the importance of women working together to create sustainable change.
“She does not just talk about policies, she invites others to be part of the solution. When you collaborate, it doesn’t go to waste.
“She encourages women to come into policy-making spaces, not just for show but to really impact government decisions and activities.”
She noted that the Minister’s efforts resonate with traditional institutions and women leaders across the country, stating that collaboration and shared responsibility are key to progress.
Dr Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, Mandate Secretary of the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, expressed optimism about the progress made under the current administration and the opportunities ahead for women in the Federal Capital Territory.
“Standing here today as the pioneer Mandate Secretary for FCT, I want to begin by echoing the Minister’s call to action. Every woman has an important role to play, and it is clear that we all have work to do.
“For some time we operated quietly behind the scenes, but now is the time to take bold actions and show results.”
Benjamins-Laniyi commended the minister’s leadership and inspiring vision that encourages all women to unite and work toward shared goals.
Mrs Ruth Agbo, President of the Association of Women in Trade and Agriculture (AWITA), commended the resilience and determination of Nigerian women, stating that they are poised to drive agricultural productivity and trade growth.
She, however, emphasised the need for equipment and support to enable women to fully realise this potential.
“In the coming years, Nigeria will have surplus because the women are ready to go to the farm and the traders are ready to trade. The women are ready to farm and make good input to the country.
“We are only pleading that we need equipment that will make us work.
“We are calling on stakeholders to provide the necessary tools and resources to enable women to fully contribute to national development.”
The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, Dr Maryam Keshinro, said the engagement has shown a firm resolve and dedication by women in the country to take their destinies in their hands.
Keshinro said that the ideas and commitments discussed would translate into concrete actions, propelling Nigerian women to new heights of influence and impact.(NAN)
Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz
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