ABUJA- Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Minister of Women Affairs, has partnered with the NGO Women in Philanthropy and Impact Africa (WIPIA) to explore initiatives aimed at empowering 100 million Nigerian women.
Mr Jonathan Eze, Special Adviser on Media & Publicity to the Minister, made this known in a statement, following a high-level strategic brunch in Lagos organised by WIPIA in honour of the minister.
According to the minister, the brunch was designed as an intimate yet catalytic engagement focused on accountability, connection, and collective action.
“The gathering 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,” she said.
The Minister emphasised the need for shared-value partnerships, not just funding.
“We are seeking not only financial support, but also expertise, platforms, mentorship, and time.
“You, our partners in the private sector, are critical to helping us scale impact, reduce inequalities, and unlock the immense potential of Nigerian women,” she said.
Referencing World Bank data, Sulaiman-Ibrahim noted that closing gender gaps could unlock 9.3 billion dollars annually for Nigeria, and 28 trillion dollars globally, highlighting the importance of unified and deliberate efforts.
She also announced the upcoming inauguration of a 30th-anniversary coffee-table publication, which would document the journey and milestones of Nigerian women.
“The book will spotlight trailblasing private sector champions who have meaningfully supported the ministry’s efforts.
“Being featured is more than visibility, it is a symbol of shared legacy and national transformation,” she added.
The minister expressed her appreciation to Dr Anino Emuwa of WIPIA and her team, as well as Chinny Okoye, SA Strategic Partnerships; Mrs Kunbi Uzochukwu; and other gender equity champions working toward a Nigeria where no woman, child, or family would be left behind.
Several key initiatives were also showcased during the brunch, including: The Happy Woman App, a digital platform offering real-time access to services and opportunities. Nigeria for Women Project, a large-scale economic empowerment programme for rural women.
Others are MOWA x SARA Accelerator in collaboration with Wema Bank focused on advancing women’s protection, development, and inclusion. (NAN)
