Women Must Move From Presence To Power, Women Affairs Minister Tells Abuja Gathering
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
Women must move beyond occupying spaces to actively shaping the decisions made in them, the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has said.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim, represented by her Special Assistant, Technical and Community Engagement and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development, Princess Joan Jummai Idonije, made the call at the “A Seat at the Table” Abuja edition on Saturday.
She said a seat at the table represents more than physical presence, describing it as access, visibility, participation and the power to influence outcomes.
The Minister urged women, particularly entrepreneurs and professionals, to leverage their businesses, networks, cooperatives and community structures to build greater economic and civic influence.
She said the collective strength of the “Power of 10 Million” could become a force for national development if women were organised, connected and intentional.
“Do not sit in the corner. Come to the table. And when you get there, make room for another woman,” she said.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim also encouraged women to engage actively in the democratic process ahead of the 2027 elections, stressing the importance of being informed about issues affecting their businesses, families and communities.
She said the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development was committed to providing a platform through which women could connect their ideas, businesses and concerns with government.
The Minister urged women to move from being beneficiaries to partners in development, saying where women could not find a seat, they should have the courage to “build another table” and create opportunities for others.
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