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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has praised Nigeria’s delegation to the 70th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70), held in New York from March 9 to 19, 2026, for projecting the country as a “decisive and credible voice” in global gender equality efforts.
In a heartfelt message titled “A Message of Heartfelt Appreciation to the Nigeria Delegation at CSW70,” the minister commended the team’s discipline and unity. “When a nation moves as one, its voice carries farther, its impact endures longer, and its purpose becomes unmistakable,” she wrote, extending “sincere appreciation to the Nigerian Delegation.”
Sulaiman-Ibrahim highlighted the delegation’s strong showings, including Nigeria’s Country Statement, contributions to the African Group’s Voluntary Country Statement with Egypt and Namibia, and engagements with Serbia, the African Union, ECOWAS, UN agencies, and the UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).
“Your discipline, professionalism, and shared sense of mission positioned Nigeria not merely as a participant, but as a decisive and credible voice in advancing global commitments on gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls,” she stated.
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The minister noted the delegation’s “visible and overwhelming presence in strong numbers at each of my engagements,” which she described as “both remarkable and deeply strategic.” This approach, she said, amplified Nigeria’s influence: “By consistently showing up, standing together, and reinforcing our positions in every session, you projected unity, strength, and national coherence. This collective presence not only amplified Nigeria’s voice, but also enhanced the credibility, reception, and influence of our interventions across platforms.”
She noted that support from high levels boosted the effort, including the Presidency, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the American Embassy in Nigeria. Sulaiman-Ibrahim linked this to President Bola Tinubu’s vision: “We deeply appreciate the visionary leadership of H.E. Mr. President, whose grand agenda for Nigeria’s socio-economic ecosystem continues to drive a bold pathway toward a $1 trillion, inclusive and resilient economy that leaves no one behind. Through the Renewed Hope Social Impact Intervention (RH-SII-774), this vision is being translated into tangible impact across all 774 Local Government Areas; empowering women, children, strengthening families, expanding access to social services, and uplifting vulnerable communities.”
She specifically thanked Permanent Secretary Ms. Nko Esuabana and ministry staff for their “meticulous coordination, technical expertise, and institutional leadership,” as well as her immediate support team and the Permanent Mission of Nigeria to the UN. “To the Chargé d’Affaires, H.E. Ambassador Syndoph Endoni, I commend your steady leadership and diplomatic coordination throughout the session,” she wrote, also recognising Ambassador Bola Asaju and Mr. Rasaq Lawal.
According to the minister, the highlight of the CSW70 for the country was the Second Edition of Nigeria Women’s Day on the session’s margins, graced by UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed. “The distinguished presence of H.E. Amina J. Mohammed… further elevated the significance of the event, underscoring global recognition of Nigeria’s leadership and commitment to advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment,” the minister noted, adding that the event amplified Nigeria’s voice and deepened partnerships.
Looking ahead, Sulaiman-Ibrahim announced a Post-CSW70 debriefing meeting to sustain momentum. “As we return home, let us carry forward not just the memory of our participation, but the responsibility it confers, so that together, we transform every commitment into measurable progress, and every effort into lasting impact for the women and girls we serve.”
