Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, the recently appointed Minister of Women Affairs, has vowed to prioritize gender equality and expand opportunities for women across Nigeria. In her inaugural speech on Monday in Abuja, Sulaiman-Ibrahim outlined her ambitious vision to tackle gender inequality and improve conditions for vulnerable groups, signaling a determined start to her tenure.
Focus on Empowerment and Economic Advancement
Sulaiman-Ibrahim expressed deep gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to women’s empowerment and emphasized that her appointment marks the start of a transformative era for Nigerian women and vulnerable citizens. She highlighted the enduring challenges women face in politics, business, employment, and education, stressing the need for targeted policies to promote gender equity and increase female representation in leadership roles.
The minister pointed to Nigeria’s low representation of women in governance, noting that less than 5% of elective positions are held by women, with only 22% occupying senior roles in the private sector. To address this, she announced plans for comprehensive policies aimed at bridging these gaps and fostering pathways for women to assume leadership roles.
Empowering Female Entrepreneurs
Sulaiman-Ibrahim praised the vital role of Nigerian women in the economy, noting that women own 41% of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the country. She emphasized her commitment to empowering female entrepreneurs, expanding access to economic resources, and creating opportunities for women to thrive across sectors.
A Collaborative Approach for Change
Acknowledging the efforts of her predecessors, Sulaiman-Ibrahim pledged that her leadership would bring about a decisive shift. “We are entering a new era where action will speak louder than words,” she stated, urging all stakeholders—including government bodies and civil society organizations—to unite in the mission to achieve gender equality.
In her concluding message to Nigerian women, the minister declared, “This is your time. Together, we will break down barriers, lift each other up, and ensure that your voices are heard.”
Her inaugural speech underscores a commitment to proactive and inclusive strategies, setting a hopeful tone for women’s empowerment initiatives under her leadership.
