By Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
Minister of Women Affairs Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim has prioritised empowering Nigerian women, strengthening families, and protecting children as key goals for 2025.
In a New Year statement released by her media team on Wednesday, the Minister pledged to intensify efforts to combat gender-based violence in all its forms. She outlined plans to strengthen legal frameworks, provide comprehensive support services for survivors, and educate the public on the devastating impact of violence against women and girls.
She also promised to economically empower women through skills development programmes, improved access to finance, and support for women-owned businesses.
“We will work tirelessly to create an enabling environment where women can thrive as entrepreneurs and contribute meaningfully to the Nigerian economy.
“We will ensure girls’ access to quality education and healthcare. Initiatives will prioritise addressing the unique challenges faced by girls, including early marriage, teenage pregnancy, and limited access to education and healthcare services.
“We will promote women’s leadership and political participation, advocating for increased representation of women in decision-making positions at all levels of government and encouraging active engagement in the political process.”
Sulaiman-Ibrahim emphasised the importance of a multi-sectoral approach and the need to strengthen collaboration between ministries and partnerships with civil society organisations.
“We believe that a multi-sectoral approach is crucial to achieving our goals and will actively seek partnerships with other government agencies, NGOs, and the private sector to maximise our impact.
“We understand that the journey towards gender equality and equity is an ongoing one, but we remain steadfast in our commitment to creating a more just and equitable society for all Nigerians.”