Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed the Nigerian government’s commitment to promoting gender equity through transformative policies and inclusive governance.
Speaking on Monday during the H.I.D. Awolowo Foundation Webinar, held to commemorate the 109th posthumous birthday of Chief Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo, Shettima highlighted the vital role of women in creating a balanced society.
The Vice President paid tribute to the late H.I.D. Awolowo, describing her as a jewel of inestimable value and a champion for women’s empowerment. He praised her contributions to Nigeria’s progress, including her role in shaping policies like free education in the Western Region.
Shettima also recognised global and Nigerian pioneers in women’s rights, such as Susan Anthony, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, and Hajiya Gambo Sawaba, for their efforts in breaking structural barriers and expanding conversations around workplace equality, reproductive rights, and domestic violence.
Highlighting the transformative impact of technology, Shettima noted how digital platforms have amplified women’s voices and driven legislative victories such as the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act of 2015.
He praised President Bola Tinubu’s inclusive governance, shaped by his mother, Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji, a renowned women’s rights advocate.
Shettima called for urgent action to address inequalities, particularly in education and leadership. He urged Nigerians to honour the legacy of women like H.I.D. Awolowo by collectively empowering women and creating a society where their aspirations redefine societal expectations.
Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Amina Mohammed, delivered the keynote address, marking November 25th as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
Chairperson of the H.I.D. Awolowo Foundation Advisory Council, Daisy Danjuma, and the Executive Director of the Obafemi Awolowo Foundation, Dr. Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, also underscored the indispensable role of women in national development.
