By Daniel Peters in Abuja.
The Federal Government has restated its commitment to empowering young women and youth across the country through strategic policies and programmes aimed at promoting gender equality, innovation, and sustainable development.
Speaking at the 2025 edition of the Royal Ambassadors Gathering Week in Abuja, the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, emphasized the government’s dedication to building a more inclusive society where women and youth can thrive.
Represented by Dr. (Mrs.) Ola Erinfolami, the Minister called on all stakeholders to join hands with the government in creating a future where opportunities are accessible to all.
“We will continue to work with stakeholders to create opportunities and address challenges,” she said. “Empowering young women is not just a priority—it’s a necessity for national development.”
Hajiya Imaan noted that despite significant strides in promoting gender equality and peace, more work is needed to address persistent barriers in education, healthcare, economic access, and leadership roles.
“Young women still face enormous challenges,” she added. “It is our collective responsibility to break these barriers and build an enabling environment for them to succeed.”
Earlier in his welcome address, the Convener of the event and President of the Royal Ambassadors Family Enlightenment Foundation, Ambassador Jonathan David Okwudiri, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Okwudiri highlighted key focus areas including agricultural development, food security, job creation, and improved livelihoods for farmers—areas that align with the Foundation’s mission to uplift communities.
“This gathering is more than a convention; it’s a call to action,” he said. “By empowering women and youth, we shape a stronger, more resilient Nigeria.”
As part of its efforts, the Foundation has launched the Green Rewards Smart Farm Settlement (GRSFS) to create one million job opportunities for women and youth across Nigeria. It is also offering grants and financial aid to core farmers through its Agricultural Farming Project Fund and Empowerment Scheme.
Okwudiri added that over 1,000 women and youth have already received vocational training in various skills and talents. The next phase, he said, is to provide them with start-up funds and equipment to help them launch their businesses.
“We call on partners, donors, and stakeholders to support this cause,” he pleaded. “Together, we can build a generation of empowered nation-builders.”
Our correspondent reports that the three-day event, themed “Building Global Partnerships for Sustainable Impacts, Innovations, and Development,” features keynote addresses, seminars, talent hunts, and interactive sessions aimed at inspiring a new wave of youth and women leaders.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
