President Bola Tinubu on Saturday, celebrated the resilience, brilliance, and indispensable contributions of Nigerian women, in a message to mark the 2025 International Women’s Day.
He described Nigerian women as the bedrock of the nation, driving progress from homes to farms, boardrooms, and communities.
He said, yet, 30 years after the Beijing Declaration, too many women still faced barriers that limited their potentials.
“Our administration is committed in our Renewed Hope pledge to dismantle obstacles, expand access to finance, and ensure equitable opportunities in governance, agriculture, and every sector.
“To our mothers, daughters, sisters – your strength fuels Nigeria’s future. Together, we rise!” the President wrote.
Mrs Didi Walson-Jack, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation called for a renewed commitment to gender equality and accelerated progress in all sectors.
Walson-Jack made the call in a statement issued by Mrs Eno Olotu, Director of Information and Public Relations in her office, as part of her special message to mark the 2025 International Women’s Day celebration.
Highlighting the importance of the 2025 theme, “Accelerate Action,” Walson-Jack emphasised the urgency of advancing women’s empowerment, particularly for civil servants, and their inclusion across all sectors of governance in the country.
“Women in the civil service remain at the forefront of national development, demonstrating dedication, professionalism, and leadership.
“I encourage every woman to continue striving for excellence, embracing leadership opportunities, and serving as an inspiration to others,” she said.
She encouraged stakeholders to foster an inclusive environment that empowers everyone to contribute to national growth.
“As we celebrate this day, let us reaffirm our commitment to building a future where barriers are broken, opportunities are expanded, and progress is accelerated for all,” said the Head of Service.
Hajia Nike AbdulRahman, National Convener of Women Advocacy for Good Governance and a Cultural and Heritage Value Advocate, has condemned the suspension of Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from the Senate.
AbdulRahman, in a statement made available to NAN on Saturday in Akure, said that the action undermined the principles of justice and fair hearing,
According to her, the action will set a dangerous precedent for the treatment of women who bravely came forward to speak out against abuse and misconduct.
“The swift suspension of Akpoti-Uduaghan raises serious concerns about the Senate’s commitment to uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of its members.
“By silencing a voice calling for accountability, the Senate leadership is not only failing Akpoti-Uduaghan, but also millions of women across Nigeria who look to our legislative institutions for support and justice.
“In light of these troubling developments, the Senate must act swiftly to reinstate Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, ensuring she can represent her constituents without fear of retribution.
“This is not only a matter of justice for her, but also the fundamental right of the people of Kogi Central Senatorial Zone,” AbdulRahman said.
The national convener, who called for independent investigations, said Akpabio must step aside to facilitate an impartial and transparent investigation into the allegations of sexual harassment.
She advocates for an independent investigation to restore public trust in the Senate and ensure impartial administration of justice.
AbdulRahman urged the Senate to adopt policies to protect those reporting misconduct, ensuring serious and thorough investigations of all allegations.
She, therefore, called on the Senate leadership to address broader issues of accountability and integrity within its ranks.
The convener emphasized the necessity of managing the ongoing scandals and allegations involving Akpabio and others with transparency, while implementing measures to prevent future occurrences.
NAN
