NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
4 banks post 679.37 bn profit in Q1 2025, customers react over charges -NGX
Economy/Business

4 banks post 679.37 bn profit in Q1 2025, customers react over charges -NGX

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By Ginika Okoye
Four banks have posted N979.77 billion as Profit Before Tax (PBT) for the first quarter of 2025 ended March 31.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) correspondent, who monitored banks’ quarter I unaudited financial statements posted on the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) platform, reveals that all the banks recorded increase in their gross earnings.
The charges ranged from Teleco Fee, SMS Alert Charges, Value Added Tax (VAT) charges, Electronic Money Transfer and interests reduction, among others.
The figure represents a 120.8 per cent increase from the amount recorded during the corresponding period in 2024.
The banks analysed include Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO), Zenith Bank Plc, Fidelity Bank Plc and Access Holdings Plc.
GTCO posted a Profit Before Tax (PBT) of N300.4billion on the back of strong performance posted on the earnings of interest income which grew year-on-year by 41.1 per cent and fee income up by 41.2 per cent.
Zenith Bank recorded N949.86 billion in gross earnings in Q1 against N780.6 billion posted in the same quarter of 2024.
Zenith Bank’s Profit After Tax (PAT) rose from N258.3 billion in the first quarter of 2024 to N311.8 billion in same period of 2025.
Access Holdings Plc recorded N222.78 billion as Profit for the period against N202.74 billion recorded in same period of 2024.
Similarly, Fidelity Bank’s gross earnings grew from N192 billion in Q1 2024 to N315.4 billion in 2025 while the profit for the period also grew from N31.4 billion recorded in 2024 to N91.1 billion in same period of 2025.
Reacting to the development, some of the banks’ customers called on the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to look into undue transaction charges by banks.
Some of the customers who spoke to NAN described the charges as unfair and uncalled for.
Mr Okechukwu Unegbu, a former President of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) said that banks usually initiate all forms of charges at the expense of their customers.
Unegbu, who regretted that banks even charge electronic transfer levy on cheques, said it was about time customers held banks accountable.
“Banks charge all sorts even illegal charges and if customers complain they won’t respond because they feel that the money is not much,” he said.
Dr Anthony Nnadi, a customer of Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) and Access Holdings Plc said he received a message from the GTCO concerning a SMS alert charge increase.
Nnadi who said he had continuously received debit alerts from his banks on various transaction charges, regretted that customers bore the heat of recapitalisation.
He called on the CBN to review and monitor banks’ transaction charges with a view to bringing discipline in the system.
Mrs Catherine Omale, a Zenith Bank customer, appealed to the CBN to check the excesses of some banks, who were allegedly defrauding customers and posting huge profits. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Sadiya Hamza
Kogi : Organised Labour urges Ododo to address water scarcity, others
Metro

Kogi : Organised Labour urges Ododo to address water scarcity, others

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By Stephen Adeleye

The organised labour union in Kogi has urged Gov. Ahmed Ododo to address the perennial water scarcity in Lokoja by urgently restoring the Lokoja Greater Water Works to meet the ever-increasing demand.

The state Council Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Gabriel Amari, and that of Trade Union Congress (TUC), Ahmed Tijani, made the appeal during the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration on Thursday in Lokoja.

Amari, who spoke on behalf of workers said, “We wish to commend your effort in reviving the Old Lokoja Water Works within a record time.

“However, the scale of treatment and reticulation from the Old Lokoja Water Works cannot meet even one-tenth of the entire water demand in Lokoja metropolis.

“Sir, water scarcity adversely affects the productivity of workers. The daily search for water has pushed residents to rely on untreated sources, thereby exposing them to waterborne diseases and other health-related risks.

“Moreover, in their quest for water, the indiscriminate drilling of boreholes has depleted the basement aquifer to an alarming level, which poses a serious threat to future generations.

“To solve the perennial water scarcity in Lokoja, there is an urgent need to repair and restore the Lokoja Greater Water Works to meet the ever-increasing demand.

“Your Excellency, you are known as a jinx-breaker, and we believe you can finally break the infamous jinx of “water, water everywhere in Lokoja, but not a drop to drink.”

The workers also appealed to the governor to make efforts towards offsetting the accumulated gratuity to ameliorate the plight of the affected retirees in the state.

“We are not unmindful of the state government’s efforts in addressing critical areas that affect the retirees.

“We are also concerned about their fate in view of their plight having dedicated the greater part of their youthful years towards the development of the state, with nothing to fall back to after retirement, safe for hope.

The unions also drew the governor’s attention to the need for the implementation of outstanding promotion, in some cases up to six years with cash backing including incremental rates.

“This will usher in a more result-oriented civil service to effectively implement government planned policies and programmes,” he said.

The unions, however, praised the Ododo administration’s giant strides since assumption of office in all facets of the economy, ranging from infrastructural development, human capital development, agriculture and health sub-sector, amongst others.

The unions also commended the governor for prompt implementation of the new national minimum wage, timely and regular payment of salaries, pensions harmonisation, workers’ training and re-training, as well as appointment of labour leaders in his administration.

In his remarks, Ododo commended the organised labour for their unwavering commitment to the development of the state and the nation at large, saying they are the engine room of economic development.

The governor assured the union of his administration’s commitment to prioritise workers welfare.

This, he said, was a testament to the immediate implementation of the national minimum wage, prompt payment of salaries, as well as the one year tax free policy on the minimum wage.

Ododo noted that his administration, on assumption of office, had been releasing N100 million monthly for gratuity, saying N1.2 billion had been released in one year for payment of backlog of gratuity to give the much-needed relief to the retirees.

He promised to promptly review all the requests of the labour unions for consideration and implementation for the benefit of the people of Kogi. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maureen Ojinaka/ Isaac Ukpoju

Workers’ Day: NUJ calls for greater press freedom, better working conditions
Metro

Workers’ Day: NUJ calls for greater press freedom, better working conditions

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By Emmanuel Oloniruha

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has called for greater press freedom and better working conditions for journalists.

NUJ FCT Chairperson, Grace Ike, made the call during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at the Workers’ Day celebration in Abuja.
Ike emphasised that press freedom was a non-negotiable right, not a privilege, and commended journalists for their invaluable contributions to society.
She urged the government to prioritise press freedom and workers’ welfare, addressing challenges such as insecurity and economic hardship.
The NUJ FCT Chairperson tasked journalists to continue promoting ethical journalism, championing better working conditions, and holding leaders accountable.
She emphasised the media’s vital role in speaking out, defending press freedom, and protecting vulnerable voices.
Ike highlighted the struggles workers face due to the current economic situation, including rising costs of living, insecurity, and limited opportunities.
She called on all sectors to support workers by creating better working environments and urged workers to remain united and steadfast.
As the first woman to lead the NUJ FCT Council, Ike appealed for unity and action among workers, urging the government and employers to stand by workers and invest in their well-being.

“Workers’ Day is not just a time to honour the value of work, but also a time to recommit ourselves to protecting the civic space, where every voice matters, truth is defended, and rights are respected,” she said.

“Let’s not allow economic struggles to take away our rights or silence us. Instead, let our difficulties unite us in building a fairer Nigeria where every worker can thrive,” she said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maureen Ojinaka/Abiemwense Moru

Daniel, Akande, Tallen, others pay tributes to late Clark
Politics

Daniel, Akande, Tallen, others pay tributes to late Clark

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By Adeyemi Adeleye

Some eminent Nigerians on Thursday celebrated the life and achievements of Chief Edwin Clark, a prominent Niger Delta leader, who passed away on Feb. 17, aged 97.

Speaking at “A Day of Tributes”, organised in his honour in Lagos, they described Clark as a true nationalist, who dedicated his life to the service of humanity.

In his tribute, Sen. Gbenga Daniel, a former governor of Ogun, said Clark was a father, who provided direction for others, adding his legacies would endure for a long time.

According to Daniel, Clark’s dedication to equity earned him respect across Nigeria’s political spectrum.

“Chief Clark was a prominent Nigerian nationalist and Ijaw leader; a statesman whose career spanned over six decades.

“He was a staunch advocate of the rights of the Niger Delta people and a vocal promoter of national unity, justice and liberty.

“There is a whole lot we can say about him, and this is just the beginning. We can all agree that he was renowned for his unwavering commitment to the rights of the Niger Delta people,” he said.

In her tribute, Dr Nike Akande, a former Minister of Industry and immediate past president of Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, described Clark as a highly intelligent leader and a philanthropist par excellence.

She also commended Clark’s widow, Abisola, for being a pillar of support to the family.

“Chief Clark touched many lives in many positive ways, including mine. He had a lot of interest in the Nigerian project. He believed in Nigeria and talked about the country all the time,” she said.

Also speaking, Dame Pauline Tallen, a former Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development said: “He (Clark) was the spokesperson for the marginalised; he fought for justice. We share in his loss.

“He served well, lived well fighting for the truth. He spoke truth to power. We are not mourning him, we are celebrating him because he was a great man.

“We thank God for his life, we believe he is resting with the Lord.”

Elder Solomon Asemota, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, who spoke on behalf of the Patriots, a group of eminent Nigerians, said that Clark did a lot for the country.

“E.K. Clark was a democrat; he believed in democracy. He was a great politician. He understood human nature,” Asemota said.

Sen. Azuta Mbata, President-General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, in his goodwill message, said that Clark was passionate about true federalism and the marginalised in the society.

Mbata, who was represented by Mr Emeka Ugwu-Oju, said that the group would always remember Clark for all he stood for.

A Niger Delta Leader, Chief Joseph Eva, who applauded Clark’s commitment to the development of Nigeria, said that his followers would not do anything contrary to what he stood for.

He described Clark as a great defender of the Niger Delta as well as the country’s unity.

“The Niger Delta will not do anything to break this country but unite it; this is what Clark stood for.

“We cannot do anything rather than to work for the unity of this country. We shall continue to miss this great nationalist,” he said.

Delivering a lecture on true federalism and resource control in Nigeria, a member of the Patriots, Chief Fafaa Princewill, said the country’s governance structure was faulty.

Princewill, who noted that the country’s problems were beyond corruption, bad governance and incompetence, called for a total overhaul of the nation’s constitution.

“If things are not working, then we have to go back to the rules.

“Pa Clark lived and touched many lives, and we will not deviate from what he stood and died for,” he said.

In his sermon, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, the Senior Pastor of the Trinity Church, noted that Clark served his generation well, saying his name would never be forgotten.

Ighodalo said: “Do your best for what you can do while you are able to do it like Clark did.

“Our leaders must learn to serve us and live for the people like Clark,” Ighodalo said.

Clark’s widow, Abisola, while commending the organisers of the programme for honouring her deceased husband, said Clark lived for the progress of Nigeria and would forever be missed. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Buhari Bolaji

May Day: Oyebanji pledges commitment to workers’ welfare
General News

May Day: Oyebanji pledges commitment to workers’ welfare

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By Bolanle Lawal

Gov. Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has pledged the commitment of his administration to prioritising workers’ welfare in the state.

The governor made the pledge on Thursday in Ado-Ekiti, while speaking at the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration.

Oyebanji said he had always made issues of workers’ welfare a top priority of his government, saying the tempo would continue throughout his tenure.

He commended the workers in the state for their support for his administration, saying their commitment to friendly dialogues had enabled his government to act promptly on issues.

The governor also promised to do all within his powers to continually restore the workers’ dignity and pride, through the provision of civil space in the state.

The State NLC Chairman, Kolapo Olatunde, while commending Oyebanji for running a worker-friendly administration, called for consolidated security architecture in order to protect life and property.

“The security situation in the country calls for sincere prayers, and consolidated security architecture that will bring turnaround approach that will bring positive results, in order to safeguard lives and property of hapless Nigerians.

“The persistent incidences of kidnapping, heart-wrenching killing of farmers by armed herdsmen and heartless killings in some parts of Benue and Plateau States are condemnable.

“We, therefore, call on the security apparatus in Nigeria and across the states of the federation to rise to this challenge and take decisive action that will stem the tide.

“This is our clarion call; our farmlands must be safe, our people must be able to go about their lawful businesses without fear; workers in Nigeria especially in the troubling areas should leave home for work and be sure of returning safely to their families,” he pleaded.

On his part, the State TUC Chairman, Sola Adigun, also expressed displeasure at the workers’ inability to hold political leaders accountable, “as a result of the threats targeted at civil space by certain leaders.”

Adigun noted that this infringement on civic freedom had further made workers vulnerable to attacks, while non-state actors, whose interests remained shadowy, interfere in workers’ struggles.

“Perhaps, even more worrying is the systematic shrinking of the civic space. Our right to organise, to protest peacefully, to speak without fear, and to hold our leaders accountable is increasingly under attack.

“Trade union activities are frequently disrupted by security agencies, while non-state actors-whose interests remain shadowy-interfere in workers’ struggles.

“And this assault on civic freedoms is happening precisely at a time when the voices of the people are needed more than ever to demand change.

“To reclaim the civic space in this era of economic hardship, we must act-strategically and courageously,” he stated. (NAN)(www.nannews.com)

Edited by Tayo Ikujuni

Nigeria must intensify strategies to achieve sustainable devt – Gbajabiamila
General News

Nigeria must intensify strategies to achieve sustainable devt – Gbajabiamila

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By Salif Atojoko

The Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, says Nigeria must intensify its internal strategies to achieve sustainable development with shrinking global multilateral cooperation.

Gbajabiamila said this during the official validation of the 2025 Voluntary National Review (VNR), the inauguration of Nigeria SDGs Progress Report 2024 and unveiling of Inclusive Data Charter (IDC) Action Plan, on Wednesday in Abuja.

“In a shrinking multilateral space, we must look inwards for sustainable solutions to our economic, social and environmental challenges,” he stated.

Gbajabiamila underscored the vital role of the SDGs as a strategic framework to guide these efforts.

He noted that Nigeria’s commitment – demonstrated by the successful conduct of VNRs in 2017, 2020, and now 2025 – reflected the government’s resolve to meet the 2030 target.

He commended Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, for her tireless leadership in coordinating the process.

He explained that the 2025 VNR followed six regional consultations held in March 2025 across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

He said exercise assessed progress, identified gaps, and gathered input for the upcoming High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) at the United Nations in July.

He explained that the consultations underscored the importance of inclusive, participatory, and evidence-based approaches to fast tracking the implementation of SDG.

Gbajabiamila also called on ministries, departments, agencies, development partners, the private sector, academia and civil society to deepen collaboration and mobilise resources to ensure no one was left behind in Nigeria’s sustainable development journey.

He reiterated the Tinubu administration’s unwavering commitment to the SDGs, describing sustainable development as a cardinal objective within the Renewed Hope Agenda.

He conveyed President Tinubu’s best wishes, noting his strong interest in achieving the SDGs.

“When world leaders adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, they envisioned a just and truly egalitarian society where no one is left behind.

“Achieving the SDGs will mean ending poverty and hunger, safeguarding our ecosystem and ensuring our people live in peace and prosperity by 2030 and beyond,” Gbajabiamila said.

In her welcome address, Orelope-Adefulire told stakeholders that the national validation workshop reinforced Nigeria’s deepening commitment to the 2030 Agenda.

She noted that nearly a decade after the adoption of the SDGs at the 70th UN General Assembly, Nigeria continued to demonstrate resolve in achieving them.

She referenced the 2024 United Nations SDGs Report, which showed that only 17 per cent of global targets were on track, with developing countries and the poorest populations bearing the greatest burdens.

“Lack of progress towards the SDGs is universal, but developing countries and the world’s poorest people are bearing the brunt,” she remarked.

Orelope-Adefulire described the VNR process as a critical component of the HLPF review mechanism, offering transparency and accountability at the national level.

She noted that Nigeria’s 2025 VNR was the product of extensive consultations across all six geopolitical zones.

She said the consultations included targeted engagements with persons with disabilities, youth and children.

“This national validation workshop not only reaffirms our commitment to the 2030 Agenda but also demonstrates our resolve to ground implementation in inclusive, evidence based, and participatory principles,” she said.

She urged participants to critically assess the VNR’s findings and recommendations to ensure a robust final report.

The Nigeria SDGs Progress Report 2024, unveiled at the workshop, provided a detailed goal-by-goal analysis of achievements and setbacks, while offering strategic recommendations for policymakers at all levels.

Orelope-Adefulire also announced the inauguration of Nigeria’s Inclusive Data Charter Action Plan 2024, developed in partnership with the National Bureau of Statistics and Sightsavers Nigeria.

“Our commitment to leaving no one behind must be data driven and evidence based,” she said.

She added that the IDC Plan reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to disaggregated and inclusive data systems as the foundation of accountable development.

She praised the Multi-Stakeholder Core Working Group for its coordination of the VNR process, acknowledging its diverse membership spanning government agencies, the UN system, civil society, academia, and the disability community.

She also thanked Sightsavers Nigeria for its support in ensuring the active participation of persons with disabilities.

Mr Mohamed Fall, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Nigeria, delivered a goodwill message in which he commended the Federal Government for its inclusive approach to the VNR and reiterated the UN’s ongoing technical and financial support.

“With less than five years remaining, the SDGs are globally off track. But Nigeria’s participatory approach gives us hope that the course can still be corrected,” he stated.

Fall highlighted Nigeria’s role among the 39 countries presenting VNRs at the 2025 HLPF, offering a platform to showcase transformative and science-based strategies.

He urged the workshop to produce actionable recommendations to address challenges such as poverty, inequality and climate change.

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) echoed similar sentiments.

Represented by Mr Eghosa Omoigui, Assistant Director, Mr Abdulateef Shittu, NGF Director General, cited subnational progress from Kwara, Lagos, Gombe and Edo states as proof of local innovation driving change.

“Resource gaps, data limitations, and climate impacts test our resilience, but they sharpen our resolve to act smarter and leave no one behind,” he said.

He added that the NGF was committed to supporting states in localising the SDGs through innovation, partnerships and knowledge sharing.

He urged participants to transform the validation process into a renewed commitment to the 2030 Agenda, stressing, “Nigeria’s story is one of resilience, partnership, and the promise of delivering on sustainable development.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Nigeria to host 2025 Chovken African regional championship — ICF
Sports

Nigeria to host 2025 Chovken African regional championship — ICF

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Priscilla Osaje

Alhaji Nura Kangiwa, Chairman of the African Region of the International Chovken Federation (ICF), has announced that Nigeria will host the 2025 Chovken African Regional Championship.
Kangiwa revealed the development during a visit by the executive members of the Nigeria Chovken Association to the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Alhaji Shehu Dikko.The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Chovken is an exciting and accessible equestrian team sport with historical roots and a strong resemblance to the more widely known game of polo.

The sport features two teams of four horse riders who aim to score goals by driving a small leather ball into the opponent’s goal using curved wooden mallets.

A standard Chovken match consists of two 15-minute halves.

Recently, UNESCO added Chovken to its prestigious list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Kangiwa assured that top Chovken teams from across Africa, including Egypt, Morocco, Kenya, and other leading nations, would participate in the championship in Nigeria.

He emphasised that hosting the tournament would not only generate significant international publicity for the country but also boost public interest in Nigerian equestrian sports.

NAN recalls that Nigeria finished third at the maiden International Chovken Championship held in Baku, Azerbaijan, in 2024.

The tournament featured teams from 10 countries – Azerbaijan, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Kuwait, Poland, Germany, Kazakhstan, Morocco, Malta, and Nigeria. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa
Workers’ Day: CSO urges workers collective action against corruption
General News

Workers’ Day: CSO urges workers collective action against corruption

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By Ikenna Osuoha

A Civil Society Organization (CSO), Initiative for Leadership Development and Change (ILDC), has urged workers to unite against all forms of corruption for national progress.

Chief Ugochukwu Nnam, President of the CSO, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in commemoration of Workers’ Day in Abuja on Thursday.

While congratulating workers on May Day, Nnam said that trade unions and civil servants could play a crucial role in advocating for anti-corruption policies.

‘This is possible by supporting workers who report corruption.

“Refusing to pay bribes, resisting demands for bribes, even when facing pressure, can help disrupt corrupt practices,” he said.

Nnam, who commended workers for their dedication to the development of Nigeria, said that workers play a crucial role in fighting corruption through reporting unethical behaviour.

He advised workers to be active in the fight against corruption by implementing robust whistleblower protections, and promoting transparency and accountability within their organisations and communities.

According to him, these efforts can help create a culture of integrity and discourage corrupt practices.

The ILDC president who commended President Tinubu for his commitment in addressing the plight of workers, urged workers to continue to support him.

He acknowledged the present economic challenges, expressing hope that it would soon be over.

Nnam said that the future of workers and Nigerians generally was bright with ongoing economic reforms of the federal government.

He urged Nigerians not to give up in their selfless service to national progress as there’s light at the end of the tunnel. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

Public health physicians to adopt, invest in 222 PHCs across Nigeria
Health

Public health physicians to adopt, invest in 222 PHCs across Nigeria

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By Folasade Akpan

The Association of Public Health Physicians of Nigeria (APHPN) says it will adopt 222 Primary Health Care (PHC) facilities across the country to improve their functionality and service delivery.

Its President, Dr Terfa Kene, disclosed this in Abuja at a news conference introducing the association’s new leadership and outlining its goals.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the new executive council of the association was elected on March 13 during its annual conference in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Kene noted that investment in PHCs by government, individuals, and communities had steadily declined over the years in spite of continued advocacy.

“While the government has made some efforts, they are still insufficient, given the size of our population.

“We have decided to adopt a minimum of 222 PHCs (six per state) and invest time and resources to enhance their functionality.

“This includes providing essential services and infrastructure such as renewable energy, particularly solar power.”

To fund the initiative, Kene said the association would explore crowdfunding, philanthropy, and grants.

He explained that APHPN would work through its members across the states to provide medical outreach, supervision, and telehealth services in the adopted PHCs.

As part of its broader vision, the association plans to inaugurate a virtual learning platform, the APHPN Virtual School, with operational studios in Delta State and the Federal Capital Territory.

According to Kene, the initiative will serve as a source of verified public health knowledge and data, targeting both professionals and the general public.

“We also intend to engage our colleagues in the diaspora to reverse the effects of brain drain through knowledge sharing and skills transfer,” he added.

To this end, the association has established the APHPN Consultancy Services Limited (ACOSEL), which will offer national and international public health consultancy services to relevant institutions.

Recognising the key role of local governments in primary healthcare delivery, Kene said the association would also work to build the capacity of local government chairpersons.

He, however, regretted that only 40 per cent of local government areas have medical officers of health.

“We plan to partner with local governments to provide information, training, and engagement on the importance of primary health care.

“Our members will be linked to specific PHCs to carry out outreach activities at least twice a year, especially around World Health Day and World Heart Day,” he said.

Also speaking, the association’s Secretary-General, Dr Augustine Ajogwu, emphasised the importance of PHCs in epidemic prevention and response, noting that outbreaks begin and end in communities.

“Effective disease surveillance must be rooted in the community. Without strong surveillance structures tied to PHCs, it’s impossible to break the chain of infection,” he said.

He called for the deployment of Medical Officers of Health in all LGAs to monitor and supervise PHC activities, stressing that the World Health Organisation recommends having a PHC in every ward.

Ajogwu also called for sustained advocacy and structural reforms to ensure better health outcomes for Nigerians. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Oluwafunke Ishola

Gender inclusion key to trade policy – Minister
General News

Gender inclusion key to trade policy – Minister

289 total views today

 

By Rukayat Moisemhe

 

Dr Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, has stated the reason for mainstreaming gender inclusion in industrial and trade policy.

 

Oduwole made this known on Thursday in Lagos at The Covenant Nation Platform Africa Women in Leadership and Women in Business Conference.

 

The minister noted that women, when equipped with the tools, networks and opportunities, do not just participate; they lead, grow, and multiply value.

 

She added that women in leadership positions are more likely to prioritise collaboration, invest in social infrastructure, and lead with empathy and inclusion.

 

Oduwole noted that companies with more women in leadership outperform their peers and countries with more inclusive policies grow faster and more equitably.

 

“Leadership is not a gendered gift, but the absence of women in leadership is a loss, not just for women, but for society.

 

“That is why I have mainstreamed gender inclusion in industrial and trade policy.

 

“Whether we are designing Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) support funds, shaping trade facilitation strategies, or negotiating under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), we must ask: where are the women? This is because that is smart economics.

 

“The business of the future is female and Africa’s future will be driven by women in business,” she said.

 

Oduwole stated that while women account for nearly 60 per cent of Africa’s self-employed population, they face systemic barriers in accessing finance, markets and formal structures.

 

According to her, as Africa rethinks, the continent must begin to reimagine an economy that truly works for women.

 

She said the continent must be guided by a system where startup capital does not require collateral women are statistically less likely to own, and where policies are not gender-blind but gender-intentional.

 

“It must be supported by a system where leadership is not something women have to prove they are worthy of, but something we collectively cultivate, mentor and support at every level,” she said.

 

Oduwole said that her leadership journey had been shaped by a deep commitment to driving transformative change and impact within Nigeria’s economic growth.

 

She noted that her strong foundation in financial systems and business strategy provided a clear lens into how capital moved and how economic structures shaped national development.

 

“Together, these experiences have shaped my approach to leadership; rooted in evidence, equity, and a belief in Africa’s capacity to compete and thrive globally.

 

“I hope my leadership legacy reflects the power of systemic change, and I want to be remembered for caring enough to sacrifice many things to build a more resilient, equitable and sustainable business environment in Nigeria and Africa,” she said.

 

Oduwole also advised women to henceforth mentor with intention, collaborate across borders and lead with purpose. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

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