From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
In a powerful message at a strategic brunch hosted by Women in Philanthropy and Impact Africa (WIPIA) in Lagos, Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, emphasised the urgent need for collective action to empower Nigerian women. The event brought together private sector leaders and philanthropists to discuss public-private partnerships and the Ministry’s ambitious 10-million-women empowerment mandate.
In a statement issued by her media aide, Jonathan Eze, the Minister shared a deeply personal moment that redirected her career path, highlighting her commitment to ensuring Nigerian women and children have access to dignity and opportunities.
“That moment ignited a resolve in me—to ensure that every Nigerian woman and child has access to the opportunities, dignity, and care they deserve,” she said.
She underscored the importance of shared value partnerships beyond funding, including expertise and mentorship, to unlock the potential of Nigerian women. Citing World Bank data, she noted that closing gender gaps could unlock $9.3 billion annually for Nigeria and $28 trillion globally, emphasizing the need for unified effort.
“We are seeking shared value partnerships—not just funding, but expertise, platforms, mentorship, and time,” she emphasized. “You, our partners in the private sector, are critical to helping us scale impact, reduce inequalities, and unlock the immense potential of Nigerian women.”
The Minister also announced the upcoming launch of a 30th anniversary coffee-table publication to chronicle the journey and milestones of Nigerian women, highlighting trailblazing private sector champions who have supported the Ministry’s efforts.
“This is not just a moment—it’s a movement,” Sulaiman-Ibrahim concluded. “A Nigeria where women and girls thrive is within reach—but it requires collective action. It is WOMAN O’CLOCK, and the time is now.”
The event, hosted by Anino Emuwa, convened private sector leaders, philanthropists, and development actors for a purpose-driven conversation on advancing the Ministry’s 10-million-women empowerment mandate and exploring the critical role of public-private partnerships in national transformation.
Guests in attendance included: Erelu Abiola Dosunmu, HRH Erelu Dr. Chevalier Abiola Dosumu Erelu Kuti IV of Lagos, Yeye Oodua of Ile Ife, Ahunna Eziakonwa (UN Assistant Secretary-General and UNDP Director for Africa),Bola Shagaya (Founder/CEO, Bolmus Group International), Ernest Ndukwe (Chair, MTN Nigeria), Bola Adesola (Chair, Ecobank Nigeria), Kemi Ibru Da Silva (Founder, WARIF), Claire Omatseye (Founder/MD, JNC International), Uju Ifejika (Chairperson/CEO, Brittania-U Nigeria Limited), Mark Okoye, CEO, South East Development Commission
Yetunde Oni (CEO, Union Bank), CEO, Kunbi Uzochukwu, MD, Delborough Lagos, Uche Pedro (Founder, BellaNaija), Mabel Makun and Dr Princess Oghene among others.