IWD: Tinubu, Govs, Wike, Others Salute Women Over National Impact

By Jonathan Nda-Isaiah, Abdullahi Olesin, Ilorin, Igho Oyoyo & JAMES KWEN, Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the rights and opportunities of Nigerian women, emphasising their vital role in national development.

In a statement to mark the International Women’s Day 2025, the president praised the resilience, brilliance and contributions of women across all sectors, from households and farms to boardrooms and leadership roles.

However, he acknowledged that significant challenges persist despite global commitments to gender equality.

He reiterated his government’s dedication to breaking down barriers and expanding opportunities for women, particularly in finance, governance, and agriculture, in line with his Renewed Hope Agenda.

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) also yesterday said it stood in firm solidarity with Nigerian women.

It praised the women’s resilience and struggles for a fair society and their immeasurable contributions to a more equitable world.

In a statement to commemorate the International Women’s Day, the NGF chairman, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, said the body was committed to pushing policies and initiatives that give voice to and promote the wellbeing of women and the girl child.

to accelerate action in pending areas of concern.

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) minister,  Nyesom Wike, also hailed women for their invaluable contributions to society, saying “As pillars of our homes and considering their roles in our society, they are worthy to be celebrated.”

The minister, in his goodwill message on this year’s International Women’s Day (IWD 2025), expressed appreciation to women, especially those in the FCT, for what he described as their unique roles.

A statement from his office said, “Under Wike as the FCT minister, women will always get their deserved recognition and positioning.”

He stressed that women are custodians of men and children, noting that their roles in the management and sustenance of the family institution, which is the basic unit in any society, are forever appreciated.

While specially appreciating women in the FCT, Wike urged that they continue to support the government, promising more dividends of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, emphasised the need to empower women’s right from childhood, saying they are critical to the development of any nation.

Abbas called for their deployment at the forefront when executing developmental projects and programmes.

The speaker said he had been leading campaigns for the protection of the girl-child and the inclusion of women in politics and governance in Nigeria due to their critical roles in society.

Abbas in his message commemorating the 2025 International Women’s Day, themed ‘Accelerate Action’ listed some of his numerous efforts towards elevating women in the polity.

Part of the efforts, he noted, is the proposal for special seats for women in the National Assembly and the state Houses of Assembly, among other gender bills that are being considered by the House Committee on Constitution Review.

“Today, I congratulate the female folk as the world celebrates International Women’s Day. Indeed, the theme – Accelerate Action – is apt. It is long overdue to walk the talk. We must all collectively agree that women are critical stakeholders in any community. They are building homes, nurturing children, and breaking political, academic, professional, and other socio-economic barriers.

“I have been at the forefront of campaigns and advocacy for women’s inclusion in matters of public interest because I believe in the girl-power. This is also why we now have two committees dedicated to women in the House: the Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, and the Committee on Women in Parliament. This is also why we have more women in my office who have been excelling in executing their assigned responsibilities,” he said.

The speaker stated that the 10th House, under his leadership, and in line with the Legislative Agenda, will continue to pursue causes that seek to empower and include women in the efforts to create a better Nigeria.