By Patricia Amogu
The organisers of the WOW Africa Women’s Summit and Excellence Leadership Awards have honoured outstanding African women who distinguished themselves in leadership, entrepreneurship, humanitarian service, and public service.
The event, held on Thursday night in Abuja, united African women leaders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to discuss strategies for advancing gender equality and inclusive leadership in its first edition.
In her opening remarks, Founder of WOW Africa, Ginika Tor, described the initiative as a platform created to showcase the transformative power of women and their invaluable contributions to every sector of the society.
She explained that the vision for WOW Africa was conceived in 2018 after she participated in a leadership programme that inspired her to create a platform capable of driving lasting social impact.
“Our vision is to break barriers, strengthen collaboration among African women and inspire transformative leadership across the continent.’’
She said the successful hosting of the summit reflected the growing need for platforms that empower women, foster collaboration and create opportunities for future generations of female leaders.
Speaking on the issue of xenophobia, particularly attacks on foreign nationals in South Africa, Tor called for greater unity among Africans, urging governments and citizens across the continent to reject discrimination and embrace peaceful co-existence.
She stressed that Africans must see one another as partners rather than rivals, noting that unity remained essential to achieving the continent’s development aspirations.
Tor urged governments, private sector organisations and development partners to move beyond symbolic celebrations of women by implementing policies, expanding access to funding, mentorship, education and leadership opportunities that would enable women to realise their full potential.
“Africa’s future will be shaped by women who dare to rise, dare to lead and dare to transform their communities,” she said.
A panel session titled “Raising Future Leaders: Empowering Young Women for Global Impact’’ featured accomplished women from public service, entrepreneurship, humanitarian work, youth development, and public policy.
The panelists underscored the importance of mentoring young women, equipping them with practical skills and building their confidence to compete successfully on the global stage.
Mrs Suzan Kiridi- Lokpobiri, Wife of the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil) and Founder of the Reaching Every Adult and Child Foundation, shared her personal journey of resilience and perseverance.
She recalled how she abandoned her childhood ambition of becoming a banker after marriage but later discovered her passion for business, humanitarian service and politics.
Lokpobiri encouraged women aspiring to political leadership not to be discouraged by setbacks, recalling her own unsuccessful attempts to secure elective office despite emerging victorious in party primaries.
“If you want to succeed in politics, you must keep pushing, remain focused and never give up. One day, your opportunity will come,” she said.
On her part, Wife of the former governor of Imo, Dr Nneoma Okorocha, called for greater support for women, describing them as the foundation of every family and society.
She said empowering women ultimately strengthened families, communities and nations, urging women to recognise their worth and continue supporting one another.
The speakers commended WOW Africa for creating a movement that goes beyond dialogue by inspiring action, amplifying women’s voices and opening doors for the next generation of female leaders across Africa.
The summit concluded with the presentation of the WOW Africa Excellence Leadership Awards and certificates to outstanding women who have made remarkable contributions in leadership, entrepreneurship, humanitarian service, public service and community development.
The highlights of the event included awards, dancing, and a musical performance by Joy “Jodie” Eseoghene, the renowned “Kuchi Kuchi” crooner.(NAN)
Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo
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