Women’s Affairs Minister Pledges Reforms to Empower Women and Vulnerable Groups

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The Minister of Women Affairs Hajia Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim receives the hand over note from the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Ambassador Gabriel Aduda.

By Hadiza Abdulrahman 

The Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, has pledged her commitment to advancing women’s rights and empowerment as a key priority within President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda.

Speaking at the Ministry of Women Affairs headquarters in Abuja upon her assumption of office, she emphasized the importance of the agenda in creating meaningful change for women across Nigeria.

Hajia Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for entrusting her with this role, vowing to build on the work of her predecessors to drive forward policies that uplift women and foster development.

“Today marks the beginning of a new era for every Nigerian woman, child, and vulnerable citizen, as I step into this role as the Minister of Women’s Affairs. I stand before you not only as a representative of the government but as a woman, a mother, and a Nigerian with a strong commitment to ensuring that every woman, child, and marginalized group in our nation has the opportunity to live a life of dignity, purpose, and freedom.”

“Under the progressive leadership of His Excellency President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, we are resolved to bridge this gender gap by untangling deeply rooted discriminatory practices. 

We are committed to empowering women through skills development, entrepreneurial support, employment opportunities, and political participation”, Hajia Imaan.   

The Minister of Women Affairs Hajia Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim celebrating with well wishes

She said “I am very aware, that despite Nigeria’s nearly equal male and female population in Nigeria, statistics reveal that job placements, appointments, and elective positions remain significantly skewed in favour of men. Currently, women hold less than 5% of elective positions nationwide and occupy less than 22% of senior leadership roles in the private sector.

She further explained, “We are committed to intensifying efforts to close this gender inclusivity gap by fostering equal opportunities for both men and women. Our mission will be driven by policies that support women’s advancement through education, vocational training, and professional and leadership development.

Only with these targeted actions can we build a fairer and more balanced workforce landscape in Nigeria”



Adding that “Women and girls who suffer from gender-based violence must have access to swift and fair justice. We will collaborate with the Federal Ministry of Justice and the Nigeria Police Force to ensure a robust and effective response to such incidents. 

We will expand social services, ensuring they are equipped to support survivors of violence and collaborate with partners to create safe spaces for those affected”

The minister highlighted the importance of drawing upon the expertise of ministry staff and working closely with partners and stakeholders.

Previously serving as the first female Minister of State for Police Affairs, Hajia Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim was warmly welcomed by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Gabriel Aduda, along with staff, management, and representatives from women’s organizations, all of whom expressed readiness to support her mission. 

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