Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mariya Mahmoud, has said empowering women economically is one of the surest pathways to reducing poverty, achieving equity and fostering lasting peace.
Mahmoud made the assertion at an economic empowerment forum organised for women political leaders and financial experts, on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York.
She expressed delight that under the visionary leadership of President Bola Tinubu, the Renewed Hope Agenda has prioritised gender inclusion, youth development, and the creation of opportunities that enable women to thrive as innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders.
Therefore, the minister used the occasion to reaffirm the FCT Administration’s commitment to building an enabling environment where women have equitable access to finance, skills and markets, allowing them to contribute fully to national development.
She commended the forum organisers for providing a platform for ideas, policies, and strategies to converge and accelerate progress on women’s empowerment.
“This gathering underscores the truth that gender equality is not a privilege but a fundamental right, and financing inclusive growth is a responsibility we must all shoulder.
“This platform is not only timely but also pivotal in our collective pursuit of inclusive growth, sustainable peace, and the promotion of human rights,” she said.
Mahmoud emphasised that the globe would invest in transforming families, communities, and nations by placing women at the centre of economic development.
The forum, with the theme scaling women’s economic empowerment: financing inclusive growth for peace, development, and human rights, brought together policymakers, political leaders, industry giants, innovators, diplomats, and other stakeholders to chart a course for women’s empowerment.
