Stakeholders have called for increased inclusion of women in governance, politics and entrepreneurship, saying greater female participation is critical to empowerment and national development.
The call was made in Abuja on Sunday during an event to mark the fifth anniversary of Abuja Women Dance Sunday, where speakers stressed the need for women to take deliberate steps towards leadership across sectors.
Speaking at the event, the Queen of Orile Ilawo, Dr Omolara Fashola-Macgregor, said women had continued to demonstrate the capacity to lead effectively in both public and private institutions amid Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
She urged that more opportunities be created for women to assume leadership roles in all sectors of society.
Fashola-Macgregor said, “Starting from the home front, a woman is already a leader. She ensures the home is functional and leads naturally with efficiency and accountability.
“Women take responsibility and manage both people and resources effectively. They should come out more and engage in politics.
“As women, we can take on demanding responsibilities while still managing the home front and excelling in other roles. We must make ourselves visible and position ourselves for leadership.”
Also speaking, the President and Founder of the Pan African Young Women Development Initiative, Dr Jophia Gupar, urged women to remain resilient and confront life’s challenges positively.
Sharing her experience as a cancer survivor, she emphasised the importance of positivity and strong support systems.
She said, “When I wake up every day and see that I am alive, I am motivated to make the best use of the day.
“During my cancer journey, I realised the importance of having positive people around me. I believed I would survive, and I was constantly encouraged.
“I am happy that my story has inspired others to remain strong and hopeful.”
In her remarks, the Chief Executive Officer of Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry Emerging Market Hub and convener of Abuja Women Dance, Amb. Zainab Mohammed called for stronger efforts to close gender inequality gaps in Nigeria.
She stressed that increased women participation in governance remained critical to sustainable development and inclusive decision-making.
According to her, women are key drivers of development with the capacity to shape policies and initiatives that can move the country forward.
Similarly, former National President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, Evelyn Onyilo, urged women to intentionally prepare for leadership by building capacity and showing interest in politics.
She said, “Women will rescue this nation, but not without interest. We must prepare ourselves by attending leadership training, joining political parties and taking initiative.
“Women are natural leaders and must continue to build themselves across all sectors.”
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the event, which focused on women’s healthcare and wellness, featured free medical and mental health checks, exercise sessions, training, empowerment talks, dance activities and the cutting of the anniversary cake.
NAN
