Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, the new Minister of Women Affairs, says her tenure will not be business as usual as there will be more actions, policies and programmes to promote justice, equality and progress for Nigerian women.
Suleiman-Ibrahim, made this pledge, on the occasion of her assumption of Office on Monday in Abuja.
She said, “My tenure as Minister of Women Affairs will not be business as usual. We are entering a new era, where action will speak louder than words, policy will translate into practice and our efforts will reflect the urgent call for justice, equality, and
progress.
” It is indeed Women O’clock in Nigeria. I am calling on all hands to be on deck to support this movement of equity and progress,” she said.
The minister, expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for the appointment and commitment to uplifting the lives of women, children and vulnerable groups, she however noted challenges affecting them.
“I am very aware, that despite Ngeria’s nearly equal male and female population, statistics reveal that job placements, appointments, and elective positions
remain significantly skewed in favour of men.
“Currently, women hold less than 5 per cent of elective positions nationwide and occupy less than 22 per cent of senior leadership roles in the private sector.
“We are committed to intensifying efforts to close this gender
inclusivity gap by fostering equal opportunities for both men and women.
“Our mission will be driven by policies that support women’s advancement through education, vocational training, and professional and leadership development.
“Only with these targeted actions can we build a fairer and more balanced workforce landscape in Nigeria,” she said.
The new minster, while acknowledging the efforts of her predecessors, vowed to build upon the foundation laid by them in championing women’s issues.
According to her, women’s voices will be amplified, increase representation in governance, as well as advocate for laws that empower women and ensure their rights are protected,access to justice for survivors of Gender Based Violence.
She added that they will expand access to social services and strengthen partnership with stakeholders, especially NGOs and CSOs.
Mrs Moji Makanjuola, a veteran journalist and development advocate said: “that your office will live up to the expectation that has brought everyone here.
“It is high expectations, but we know that with God on your side and Nigerian women rightly behind you, you are made to succeed.”
Geraldine Ita-Etuk, Acting National President, National Council for Women Societies (NCWS), represented by Edna Azura, Second Assistant Secretary, assured her of their supports towards achieving her mandates.
“We promise to pay all allegiance to you and to work assiduously so that we lift Nigeria to another level as women. We are happy to have you,” she said.
Also, Saudatu Mahdi, Secretary General, Women’s Rights Advancement & Protection Alternative (WRAPA), said:”When you call on Nigerian women, be sure you have succeeded. When you ignore Nigerian women, definitely there will be problems.
“We pledge our loyalty to this ministry. We deal with the institution, not the individuals. But the individuals make the institution. So we look forward to making this gender ministry what it should be.” She said.
