The Federal Government is set to empower over 5 million women across Nigeria through a financial capacity-building and entrepreneurship support program under the Nigerian Women Project, according to the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim.
Speaking at the 2025 Pre-5th Colloquium of the Pan-African Africa Young Women, themed “Women Entrepreneurs as a Catalyst for Sustainable Development and Economic Growth”, Suleiman-Ibrahim (represented by her Special Assistant, Mrs. Ola Erinfolami) highlighted key initiatives including:
- Expansion of financial and entrepreneurship support across all 36 states and the FCT
- Campaign to end energy poverty among women through solar home systems and tech skills
- Advocacy for gender-responsive legislation, including special seat reservations
- Emphasis on breaking structural barriers and empowering women as leaders and change agents
She stressed that African transformation is impossible without women’s full leadership and participation.
Other speakers echoed this view:
- IGP Kayode Egbetokun, represented by ACP Zainab Bello, emphasized women’s role in promoting peace.
- Dr. Temitope Enitan-Ogunwusi, wife of the Ooni of Ife, urged women to cultivate self-love and confidence.
- Dr. Jophia Gupar, founder of the Pan-African Africa Young Women, noted that the colloquium now spans 27 African countries and aims to enhance women-led businesses.
- Princess Edna Azura, President of NCWS, praised the initiative as a realization of the founding mothers’ vision.
The event drew stakeholders from government agencies, civil society, and the private sector, focusing discussions on agribusiness, women’s empowerment, food security, and mindset rebranding.
