Vice President Kashim Shettima on Monday reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to advancing gender equity through transformative policies.
He gave the assurance during the H.I.D. Awolowo Foundation webinar in commemoration of the 109th posthumous birthday of Chief Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo, wife of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
The vice president emphasised the indispensable role of women in building a balanced and equitable society.
He called for renewed national efforts to create an inclusive society where women are empowered to lead and thrive.
“Every nation’s treatment of women serves as the ultimate marker of its civilization.
“We cannot claim to have evolved as a nation unless we recommit ourselves to creating a society that offers women unconditional dignity and opportunity,” he said.
The vice president paid glowing tribute to the late Chief Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo, describing her as a “matriarch like no other and a jewel of inestimable value.”
He lauded her contributions to modern Nigeria, noting her unwavering support for her husband, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and her advocacy for women’s rights.
“Mrs. Awolowo’s courage and influence were instrumental in shaping policies like free education in the Western Region. This is what an empowered woman can achieve,” he said.
A statement issued by his spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, said on the historical struggles for women’s rights, Shettima referenced the activism of global pioneers like Susan B. Anthony and Nigerian icons such as Mrs. Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti and Hajiya Gambo Sawaba.
“These trailblazers compelled us to confront the structural inequalities holding women back. Thanks to their efforts, the conversation has expanded beyond suffrage to include workplace equality, reproductive rights, and the fight against domestic violence,” he remarked.
Shettima also pointed to the transformative impact of technology, noting how digital platforms have amplified women’s voices and driven legislative victories like the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act of 2015.
“This landmark legislation is a testament to the power of women-led advocacy and their determination to create a safer, fairer society,” he said.
He further reiterated the importance of representation and leadership opportunities for women, even as he praised President Tinubu for his inclusive governance, shaped by the legacy of his mother, Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji, a formidable women’s rights advocate.
“Her legal battle for personal liberty set a precedent in our constitutional history, reminding us that women’s rights are human rights and must never be negotiable,” he noted.
The vice president called for urgent action to address societal inequalities, particularly in education and leadership.
“The nation we must build is one where no girl is denied the chance to learn, no woman is denied the opportunity to lead, and no mother is denied the dignity of safety and respect,” Shettima said.
He urged Nigerians to honour the legacy of women like H.I.D. Awolowo and embrace a collective responsibility to empower women.
“We are working to create an environment where women are not just supported but celebrated; where their aspirations redefine societal expectations and help build a viable, equitable, and thriving nation,” the vice president said.
In her keynote address, the deputy secretary-general of the United Nations, Amina Mohammed, said November 25th marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and the start of 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
She explained that HID Awolowo was a fighter for social justice and human rights and took every opportunity to show the power of women in economic development.
“Every chapter of her story tells us that no bird can fly on one wing. We need the leadership and representation of women. We need partnerships for change—everyone must work for systemic change that will be sustainable.
“We need to end the scourge of gender-based violence as an absolute priority, essential for growth. Societies cannot achieve the equal and just society envisioned by HID Awolowo if we leave 50 percent of the world’s population behind,” she said.
Earlier, the chairperson of the HID Awolowo Foundation Advisory Council, Senator Daisy Danjuma, noted that in building a more viable Nigeria, the role of women should not be overlooked.
“Together, let us chart a society where the role of women is recognized, celebrated, and utilized,” she said.
Welcoming guests to the webinar earlier, the executive director and co-founder of the Obafemi Awolowo Foundation, Dr. Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, described HID Awolowo and her late husband as giants of intellect, integrity, service and sacrifice, saying their lives were a testament to the power of purposeful living.
“They left us a blueprint for leadership and a legacy of hope. It is, therefore, with immense pride (and I hasten to add humility) that I speak before you today, reflecting on the legacy of these two extraordinary individuals. To be their offspring is not just a privilege; it is a profound responsibility.
“Their legacy is not meant to be confined to history books or family stories. It is a legacy that demands to be shared, understood, and applied in Nigeria and beyond. Our role, therefore, is to identify actionable plans and strategies and amplify the voices and capacities of women,” Dr Dosumu stated.
Women critical to changing Nigeria’s current narrative —Danjuma
Chairperson of the foundation, Senator Daisy Danjuma in her brief speech said if Nigeria must turn the corner, women would be playing a crucial role.
She also noted that the Foundation prioritizes the interests of women as a key approach to creating a better society while reminding the audience that the current economic challenges would not be effectively addressed without the active role and contributions of women.
She also underscored the importance of building the capacity of women and girls, noting that this was crucial for societal progress.
The former federal lawmaker also put participants on notice that the next edition of the programme would be a physical gathering.
Mama had exceptional wisdom—Erelu Fayemi
Former Ekiti first lady, Erelu Bisi Fayemi, in her contribution, noted Mama HID’s exceptional wisdom, calling her a model of intelligence and foresight, saying “her life is an inspiring example of how women can navigate leadership roles with grace and effectiveness”.
Bisi, whose husband, Kayode Fayemi is a two non-consecutive-term governor of Ekiti State, encouraged first ladies to champion causes, saying many political spouses are accomplished professionals in their own right.
She also called for active encouragement of first ladies to take on significant roles in advocating for crucial causes, particularly in healthcare, women’s empowerment, and other critical societal needs.
She emphasized the importance of leveraging their expertise and influence to contribute meaningfully to national and community development while asking them to prioritize lasting legacy projects that can create sustainable impacts.
The speaker stressed the need for them to engage in initiatives that outlive their tenures and address long-term societal challenges.
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