In light of the ongoing challenges encountered by countless Nigerians, Women in Management, Business, and Public Service (WIMBIZ) has encouraged women to empower themselves for self-reliance by seizing any available opportunities instead of waiting for those that may not materialise.
Speaking at the WIMBIZ International Women’s Day programme, the executive director, WIMBIZ Hansatu Adegbite underscores the importance of leveraging the unique attributes of women, such as their empathy and dedication to nation-building, to steer the nation towards economic prosperity.
She noted that Nigeria has prolonged battle with poverty under predominantly male leadership since gaining independence.
In light of the prevailing challenges, she encourages individuals to seize opportunities amidst adversity, stressing the significance of grassroots initiatives and self-reliance.
She said, “Recent reports from the National Bureau of Statistics reveal that a staggering 65% of Nigerians are categorised as multidimensional poor, equating to approximately 133 million individuals. This concerning statistic disproportionately affects women, underscoring the urgent need for gender-specific strategies to alleviate poverty.”
On the occasion of International Women’s Day on March 8, 2024, Hansatu highlights the theme of “Inspire inclusion” as a driving force behind the empowerment of women and the advancement of national development.
With a steadfast commitment to promoting gender equality for over two decades, she asserts that the representation of women in leadership positions is not only a matter of parity but also a fundamental catalyst for socio-economic advancement.
“International Women’s Day serves as a moment to reflect on advancements in human rights and gender equality policies, while also envisioning a brighter future for generations to come. March 8th is designated as a global celebration of women, with a commitment to enhancing the success of female entrepreneurs and increasing the representation of women in leadership roles across corporate and public sectors
“Through amplifying the voices and contributions of women, WINBIZ envisions a future where gender parity serves as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s developmental trajectory,” she said.
As Nigeria grapples with the imperative to uplift its most vulnerable populations, WINBIZ’s advocacy for women’s leadership emerges as a beacon of optimism, offering a pathway towards a more equitable and prosperous society.
