I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power that economic independence can bring to women, their families, and our society at large. To be candid, nine out of 10 people could probably give an example of witnessing a thriving woman lifting her community and her family. It is for this very reason that it is imperative that we domesticate the Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) policy in Nigeria. It is a policy that is designed to ensure that every woman, regardless of her background, has the opportunity to thrive. The policy is touching on five main pillars of Agriculture, Entrepreneurship, The Traditional Labour market, Creative and Emerging Industries and Education and Skill Acquisition. The recent appointment of Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim as the new Minister for Women’s Affairs and Social Development offers a pivotal opportunity to advance the Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) policy. This appointment presents a chance to transform the WEE policy from a lofty ideal into a tangible reality that would benefit millions of Nigerian women.
Economic empowerment is not just a buzzword; it is a lifeline. When women have access to money, they can invest in their children’s education, contribute to their communities, and drive economic growth. Studies have shown that countries where women have access to finance and can contribute to their communities tend to have more robust economies. The Women Affairs Minister, Sulaiman-Ibrahim must prioritise the implementation of the WEE policy by providing access to financial resources and skill acquisition opportunities, and this will, in turn, create an enabling environment for female entrepreneurs and workers. It will also ensure that women have the skills and opportunities needed to succeed. The minister must ensure that there is considerable investment on the part of the Federal Government in education and vocational training.
Furthermore, promoting gender-sensitive policies, and addressing the systemic barriers that hinder women’s economic participation will foster a culture that values and supports women’s contributions and this is crucial. It will mean challenging societal norms and stereotypes that limit women’s potential and advocating for policies that promote work-life balance and equal opportunities. By doing so, we can create a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria. In addition to this, Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of Women Affairs should also be looking to forge strategic and collaborative partnerships with local and international organisations to achieve these goals. Collaborating with non-governmental organisations (NGOs), private sector companies, and global development agencies can provide the necessary resources and expertise to drive the WEE agenda forward. These partnerships can help scale successful initiatives, share best practices, and ensure that economic empowerment benefits reach every corner of Nigeria.
As we look to the future, it is important to remember that the empowerment of women is not just a women’s issue—it is a national imperative. The domestication of the WEE policy could unlock the full potential of our nation and pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future for all Nigerians. The time for action is now. Let us work together to ensure that every Nigerian woman has the opportunity to achieve her dreams and contribute to the growth and development of our great nation.
- Storms, a media personality, actress, and advocate for women’s rights, is a passionate champion of women’s economic empowerment.
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