By Palma Ileye
Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing women’s empowerment and international cooperation as the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, FMWASD, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, who urged for unity and economic empowerment hosted a reception in honour of Nigeria’s newly elected representative to the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).
The event, held in Abuja, celebrated the election of Esther Eghobamien Mshelia to the UN CEDAW Committee, a move described by officials as a significant diplomatic milestone for Nigeria’s gender equality agenda.
Speaking at the reception, Sulaiman-Ibrahim called on stakeholders across the women affairs ecosystem to strengthen collaboration, innovation, and unity in advancing national development goals.
She emphasized that women’s economic empowerment remains central to national progress, urging Nigerian women to pursue financial independence and greater participation in economic activities.
“There is no place for a poor woman in Nigeria. Economic empowerment is not optional—it is our priority. When women have economic power, they also have a stronger voice in society,” she said.
N Minister also encouraged cooperation rather than competition among stakeholders, stressing that collective effort was essential to achieving sustainable impact.
Highlighting Nigeria’s global engagement, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Esuabana Nko Asanye, described Nigeria’s successful election into the CEDAW Committee as the result of coordinated teamwork and strategic engagement at the United Nations.
She noted that Nigeria’s diplomatic efforts reflected improved international visibility and collaboration, adding that the Ministry’s advocacy for the “care economy” was gaining recognition as a driver of job creation and inclusive growth.
In her remarks, Mshelia who pledged commitment, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for its support during the election process, noting that Nigeria’s growing global influence on women’s rights issues reflects sustained policy commitment.
She pledged to work closely with government institutions and stakeholders to ensure Nigeria meets its international obligations under CEDAW while advancing policies that protect women and girls.
In a call for collaboration, the President of the National Council of Women’s Societies, National Council of Women Societies, Princess Edna Azura, congratulated Mshelia on her election and commended the Minister for her leadership, pledging continued support for women-focused initiatives nationwide.
Veteran journalist and advocate, Moji Makanjuola also urged women to embrace unity and collaboration, stressing that sustainable progress depends on collective action and mutual support.
The event concluded with renewed commitments from government officials, civil society groups, and development partners to strengthen partnerships, promote economic empowerment, and accelerate the implementation of women’s rights frameworks across Nigeria.
Officials said the development underscored the Ministry’s determination to position Nigeria as a stronger voice in global gender equality discussions while expanding opportunities for women and girls at home.
