The recent inauguration of Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim as Nigeria’s new Minister of Women Affairs marks a decisive shift in the nation’s approach to gender equality. In a powerful inaugural speech, Sulaiman-Ibrahim underscored her readiness to champion women’s empowerment and addressing longstanding social, economic, and political disparities faced by Nigerian women. With a bold declaration, she stated, “It is indeed Women O’clock in Nigeria,” signaling her dedication to translating policy into tangible progress for women across the country.
Speaking passionately, Sulaiman-Ibrahim described women as the “heartbeat of the nation,” essential to Nigeria’s development and prosperity. Her appointment, supported by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, aligns with the administration’s focus on uplifting vulnerable groups and bridging gender gaps in various sectors. The Minister highlighted the enduring barriers faced by women in business, politics, education, and sports, describing these inequalities as contrary to Nigeria’s core principles and emphasizing the urgent need to address them.
Throughout her address, Sulaiman-Ibrahim stressed that the challenges women face demand immediate action and resilience. She outlined her agenda for the Ministry of Women Affairs, which includes promoting policies that support equal opportunities in education, skill development, and leadership. “The realities of these limitations are a call for action,” she stated, further emphasizing the nation’s obligation to dismantle the social and economic structures that hold women back.
Recognizing that systemic change requires collaboration, Sulaiman-Ibrahim called on government agencies, private sector leaders, and civil society organizations to support initiatives for gender inclusivity. Her address resonated with female leaders, who applauded her vision. Mrs. Moji Makanjuola, a veteran journalist and development advocate, voiced her optimism, stating, “With Nigerian women rightly behind you, you are made to succeed.”
Sulaiman-Ibrahim’s plans go beyond mere policy proposals. She pledged to advocate for legislation that safeguards women’s rights, fostering an environment where their voices are not just heard but also acted upon. Her vision extends to structural reforms that ensure the safety, representation, and economic mobility of Nigerian women, aiming to eliminate barriers at both grassroots and national levels.
Highlighting the need for progress in Nigeria’s standing in the 2024 Global Gender Gap Report, Sulaiman-Ibrahim acknowledged improvements while asserting that much work remains. Her commitment to a non-traditional approach in her role aims to set a new standard for leadership. “My tenure as Minister of Women Affairs will not be ‘business as usual,’” she declared, underscoring her intention to prioritize actions over words in the push for equity.
Leading women’s organizations echoed their support for Sulaiman-Ibrahim’s initiatives, pledging their loyalty and dedication to her vision. Geraldine Ita-Etuk, representing the National Council for Women Societies (NCWS), assured the minister of their commitment to her goals, emphasizing the importance of collaboration. Similarly, WRAPA’s Saudatu Mahdi reaffirmed the organization’s loyalty to the ministry, noting that institutions can only reach their potential through strong individual leadership.
In closing, Sulaiman-Ibrahim called upon all Nigerians to support the movement toward an inclusive society that values and uplifts women. “Anything that affects Nigerian women affects me personally,” she asserted, promising to lead efforts that will break down barriers, uplift women, and create spaces for their advancement. Her speech has set the stage for a renewed fight for gender equality, with hopes of inspiring a society where women are given equal footing and the support needed to thrive.
