Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The federal government has renewed its pledge to safeguard women’s and girls’ rights, promising to expand their influence in Nigeria’s leadership and development sectors.
Speaking at the annual Renewed Women’s Voice and Leadership (RWVL) planning meeting, organized by ActionAid Nigeria in partnership with Global Affairs Canada, Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, emphasized that the government will intensify collaborative efforts to ensure women gain greater access to leadership roles, productive assets, and socio-economic opportunities.
Represented by Ebele Obiefuna, the Minister lauded ActionAid’s role in strengthening women’s organizations and driving empowerment programs nationwide. “We value this partnership and reaffirm our commitment to initiatives that create lasting impact for women across Nigeria,” she said.
Highlighting government support, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning Abubakar Bagudu, represented by Mrs. Tonia Okangbe, assured participants that ministries would back programs advancing women’s leadership and rights.
ActionAid Nigeria Country Director, Dr. Andrew Mamedu, revealed that RWVL is entering its second phase, building on successes that have strengthened women’s political participation, advocacy, and socio-economic influence.
He stressed the initiative is designed to ensure that women’s voices are not only heard but shape decision-making processes at all levels.
“This is about more than programmes,” Mamedu said. “It’s about creating a future where women’s leadership is visible, respected, and transformative for communities across Nigeria.”
The meeting signals a renewed focus on closing gender gaps in leadership, empowering women economically, and ensuring that their contributions to governance and society are recognized and amplified.
