The inaugural Nigerian Women in Leadership Conference, held in Benin City, concluded with a rallying call for women to go beyond mentoring and actively sponsor one another for greater influence in leadership and politics.
The founder of the Nigerian Women in Leadership Forum, Her Excellency, Betsy Obaseki, urged women to embrace patriotism and take a proactive role in enhancing Nigeria’s political landscape.
Reflecting on the motivation behind, the forum, Mrs Obaseki stated, “About six or so years ago, I conceived the idea of gathering women, because I was looking for more of professional women to begin to take an interest in politics and come on board to improve the quality of politics that we play in this state and ultimately in our country. We need to catch that spirit of patriotism, each and every one of us.”
Keynote speaker, Mrs Ibukun Awosika emphasized unity and collective empowerment noted, “What my sister seeks to do is to leave you with a legacy, a desire to change your state and to change the country by standing together as a team,” she said. Awosika
She highlighted the necessity of connected power, saying, “When we join our powers together, we create a superpower… for the sake of our nation and our state to get there and do great things.”
A guest of honour and former minister of Women Affairs, Josephine Anenih, noted the importance of informed participation stressing that “We need knowledge and education.” She mentioned lack of understanding as a barrier. “We are still looking at the men and idol-worshipping them.”
The conference featured a robust panel of discussion with leaders calling for legislative support for gender inclusion and underscoring the need for active sponsorship of women.
Edo State deputy speaker Honourable Maria Edekor said Africa’s progress is related to women’s representation through quota systems, encouraging legislative action to secure similar achievements.
Edo State commissioner for Education, Dr Joan Oviawe, advocated direct sponsorship over traditional mentorship., saying, “Mentoring is no longer in vogue… if you really want to help a woman, you sponsor her.”
