First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has emphasized the need for sustained efforts toward gender equality, calling it crucial for building a peaceful, equitable, and prosperous society. Speaking at the 2024 Gender Conference held at the University of Lagos, Tinubu highlighted the importance of justice and empowerment in fostering sustainable development. Represented by Mrs. Maryam Obadina, she stressed that empowering women is not just a social priority but also an economic imperative.
“Women and girls represent half of the world’s population and potential. Empowering them is critical for productivity and economic growth,” Tinubu stated. She pointed out that gender equality goes beyond fairness—it supports productivity, innovation, and development. Reflecting on her political journey, Tinubu noted how systemic barriers often limit women’s influence in decision-making, sharing her struggle to oppose harmful laws like child marriage.
Tinubu encouraged women to take proactive steps in creating opportunities, urging them to be bold, informed, and hardworking. “Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you. Hard work and faith go hand in hand,” she advised, urging women to challenge traditional roles and redefine success in their chosen fields.
Oyo State First Lady Tamunominini Makinde echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that gender equality benefits everyone, not just women. “A man can be a nurse, and a woman can be a pilot or a lawyer. It’s about having the opportunity to pursue your dreams irrespective of gender,” Makinde stated. She also advised women in male-dominated fields to thoroughly prepare and learn from those who have succeeded before them.
The conference reinforced the call for gender equality as a national priority. By addressing systemic barriers and fostering inclusivity, the leaders urged Nigeria to build a society build a society where individuals can thrive regardless of gender, paving the way for greater equity and sustainable progress.
