The recently appointed Minister of Women Affairs, Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has vowed to fight gender inequity and improve opportunities for women throughout Nigeria. Sulaiman-Ibrahim presented her ambition to attain gender parity and enhance the well-being of marginalised communities in her inauguration speech on Monday in Abuja.
She conveyed gratitude for the chance to spearhead efforts towards gender equality and appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering support for women’s empowerment. Addressing the ongoing obstacles women encounter in politics, business, work, and education, she said, “Today marks the beginning of a new era for every Nigerian woman, child, and vulnerable citizen.”
Women presently hold less than 22% of senior posts in the private sector and less than 5% of elective positions, according to Sulaiman-Ibrahim, who emphasised the glaring under-representation of women in leadership. She underlined that in order to bridge these disparities and encourage women to assume leadership positions, the ministry will put specific regulations into place.
Given that 41% of SMEs are owned by women, the minister emphasised the critical role that Nigerian women play in the country’s economy. She stated her intention to increase economic opportunities for women in all industries and to fortify support for female entrepreneurs.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim pledged that her term “will not be ‘business as usual,'” acknowledging the efforts of her predecessors and the ministry’s partners. Action will speak louder than words as we approach a new era. “This is your time,” she said, sending a strong message to Nigerian women.
We will work together to remove obstacles, support one another, and make sure your opinions are heard. A proactive, cooperative approach to promoting gender equality is indicated by the minister’s agenda, which calls on all relevant parties—including the government and civil society—to join the cause.
