The Honourable Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, fsi, has described women voices and votes as critical element of nation’s power. The Ministér stated this in her address at the 2025 National Conference of the League of Women Voters of Nigeria (NILOWV).
The Ministér was represented at conference by her Special Assistant on Administration, Mrs.Ola Erinfolami, Speaking further at the conference themed “The Power of Women’s Voices and Votes: A Critical Tool for Electoral Victory,” the Minister commended NILOWV for nearly three decades of visionary leadership in promoting gender equality, civic engagement, and democratic participation.
She noted that the year 2025 represents a defining milestone in the global advancement of women, marking anniversaries of key international commitments such as the Beijing Declaration, the Global Social Development Agenda, and the United Nations Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security.
“Women’s participation in governance is not a symbolic gesture—it is a national necessity. Women’s voices and votes are the most powerful instruments for Nigeria’s inclusive growth, peace, and electoral success,” the Minister stated
This is even as she urged the group to redouble their mobilization of women towards active participation in political activities in the country.
Hon. Suleiman-Ibrahim reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda as a transformative blueprint that places women, children, and vulnerable groups at the centre of socio-economic renewal. She announced the consolidation and implementation of strategic frameworks including:
• The National Gender Policy (2021–2026)
• The National Women’s Economic Empowerment Policy (2023)
• The National Policy on Ending Child Marriage
• The upcoming Third National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security
• Launch of Renewed Hope Social Impact Interventions-774
The Minister emphasized the Ministry’s groundbreaking Renewed Hope Social Impact Interventions (RH-SII-774), operating across all 774 local government areas, aimed at revitalizing local economies, deepening community inclusion, and strengthening gender-responsive development efforts.
“This programme is restoring dignity and rebuilding faith in governance—one woman, one family, one community at a time,” she said.
On the issue of Reserved Seats for Women Bill currently before the National Assembly, she commended the leadership of the 10th Assembly for its unprecedented commitment to gender inclusion, noting that women’s representation is a strategic investment in national stability and prosperity.
Imaam Suleiman-Ibrahim concluded with a passionate call to Nigerian women to rise as decisive voters, influential leaders, and architects of a new democratic order.
“Let us amplify women’s voices in every public space, mobilize their votes for credible leadership, and mentor a new generation of women who will lead with integrity and empathy. Together, we will build a Nigeria where women’s voices are valued, their votes are decisive, and their leadership is indispensableg future.
Signed
Ahmed Lawan Danbazau mnipr
Head, Information, Press and Relations
