Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), has emphasised the importance of greater inclusion and participation of women in leadership roles.
Speaking to reporters following a meeting with the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan, and other prominent women at the Nigerian Women in Leadership event in Abuja, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by women striving for leadership positions.
During the gathering, discussions centred on various issues affecting women’s advancement, with a particular focus on strategies to increase women’s representation in leadership roles both within state and federal government levels.
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala stressed the need for proactive measures to address the existing gender disparities, noting that women must actively advocate for their rights while also garnering support from their male counterparts.
Addressing the low percentage of women in the National Assembly and the absence of female governors, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala emphasised the urgency for change, stating that progress will require collective effort from both women and men.
She highlighted the importance of empowering women to navigate the challenges of leadership, acknowledging that many women present at the event were already in leadership positions but stressing the importance of continuous support and advocacy for gender equality.
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala reaffirmed her commitment to advancing gender equality and called for sustained efforts to create a more inclusive and equitable society where women can thrive in leadership roles.
