As Nigeria marks its 63rd Independence anniversary, it’s an opportunity to reflect on the journey of Nigerian women towards socio-political and economic independence, as well as celebrate the remarkable achievements and resilience of the Nigerian woman, ENE OSHABA writes.
Over the decades, Nigerian women have played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s socio-economic, and political landscape.
Their contributions are often understated but undeniably significant, deserve recognition and applause.
Nigeria’s history is marked with stories of extraordinary women who have made indelible marks. From the days of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, the educationist, political campaigner and fearless activist who fought for women’s rights and against colonial oppression; political activist Gambo Sawaba; to the modern era exemplified by Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the first African and female director-general of the World Trade Organisation (WTO); and many more; Nigerian women have consistently shattered the glass ceilings.
women in politics
One arena where Nigerian women have excelled is politics. Over the years, they have demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities. Figures like Ngozi Oknjo-Iweala and Oby Ezekwesili not only played prominent roles domestically but also represented Nigeria on the global stage. Their achievements are not just source of pride for Nigeria but also a testament to the capacity and potential of women in leadership positions.
Today, the political participation of women has increased and more women vying for different positions both at both at the local and national levels following the continued advocacy on the need for inclusion of women in leadership.
Notwithstanding the poor outing of women in the 2023 general elections which produced very few women elected into positions of authority, coupled with the fact that the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is slow in appointing women to positions, there is so many reasons to celebrate Nigerian women’s resilience and determination to keep pushing and hoping for a time in the nearest future when they would be given the opportunity to contribute more to nation building.
Women building more inclusive, equitable society – Minister
Speaking exclusively to Blueprint Weekend, the Minister of Women Affairs Uju Kenedy-Ohaneye, noted that at 63, Nigeria was blessed with the Renewed Hope Agenda which is being sustained by this administration for the good of all citizens particularly women.
She added that the continued rise of women in different fields of endeavour offers a glimpse of a brighter future, adding that women are not just building profitable enterprises; they are building a more inclusive and equitable society with their contributions shaping Nigeria’s identity on the global stage.
“This would be one of the best independence celebrations because the renewed hope agenda is out to empower women economically and endure meaningful living for women and children,” she stated.
‘It’s slow, steady, tedious journey’
Also, in an exclusive interview with Blueprint Weekend the Benue state Governorship Candidate of Action Democratic Party (ADP), during the last election, Eng. Dr. Roseline Ada Chenge, described the political progress of women as “slow, steady and tedious journey”.
She noted that going by statistics the number of women representation in leadership was not encouraging, however, there it was worth celebrating.
Chenge regretted that at 63 no Nigerian woman has been elected the Governor of any state, the President or Vice President, Speaker or the Senate President, adding that yet, many capable women who can occupy these positions and achieve a lot for Nigeria abound.
She, however, affirmed that many women have held very sensitive positions, ministerial position, as well as deputy governors and they have performed satisfactorily and have made women and the nation proud even on the global stage.
“The progress is slow but steady and more women and even girls are now willing to join active politics, husbands are also supporting their wives to join politics and vie for positions so you see the narrative is changing for the better unlike before when any female politician is regarded as a prostitute.
“This year’s independence should be a super celebration of women’s resilience as well as the men who are standing by women to participate fully in politics.
“One of such men is our dear President Ahmed Bola Tinubu who did not follow the norm of retiring to the Senate as we see with most state governors, rather he allowed and supported his wife to participate and win elections as a Senator and we see she is doing well, this is worthy of emulation,” she stated.
Conversely, the Lagos state Governorship Candidate of the Action People’s Party (APP) in the 2023 general elections, Chief Mrs. Adeyemi Abiola, expressed displeasure at the fact that women are not considered fit enough for some leadership positions after 63 years of independence.
She worried that Nigeria continued to rank high on corruption on the global scene, just as she maintained that with more women in leadership a lot will be achieved and the system sanitised for the benefit of all.
“Only women can help to clear Nigeria’s bad image such as corruption because they are better managers and so should be given the opportunity at leadership.
“Women like Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Abike Dabiri and many countless women have been tested and can be trusted.
“The present University of Lagos Vice Chancelor is a woman and since her assumption there has been lots of transformation; she has been building the school and everyone can feel her impact.
“It is unfortunate that Nigeria don’t believe in its women even with all their achievements and contributions to national growth,” she said.
women in business
Women in business have also made noteworthy strides. A promising facet of this future lies in the remarkable contributions of women in business, who are driving economic growth, innovation, and empowerment.
Entrepreneurial spirits like Folorunso Alakija, Africa’s richest woman, and Ibukun Awosika, the first female chairman of First Bank Nigeria, have shown that Nigerian women can excel in traditionally male-dominated sectors.
Their success stories are source of inspiration for countless young women aspiring to make their mark in the business world.
Over the years, Nigerian women have broken through traditional barriers to make their mark in various industries. This progress is attributed to a combination of factors, including changing societal attitudes, increased access to education, and a growing awareness of the potential of female entrepreneurship.
Nigerian women are no longer confined to the domestic sphere. There numbers in leadership positions have continued to increase, just as they are now launch startup businesses, and drive innovation. Female entrepreneurs are contributing to the country’s GDP, creating jobs, and fostering economic development. Their influence extends beyond Nigeria’s borders as they engage in international trade and partnerships.
Sharing her views on the growth of female entrepreneurs in Nigeria, the CEO of Rosie Marie Events, Rosemary Arafina, noted that Nigeria was blessed with women who are naturally entrepreneurs, and over the years have been contributing in various ways to the nation’s GDP.
She revealed that she had always been an entrepreneur right from her young school days where she sold different items to sustain herself.
The event outfit boss added that like many other younger women, the entrepreneurial spirits was acquired naturally from her mother who was also a business woman.
Recognising the importance of women in business and has implemented various policies and initiatives to support their growth such as access to funding, mentorship programs, and incentives for businesses owned by women.
These actions reflect a commitment to creating a level playing field for women entrepreneurs.
She, however, lamented that a lot of embargo and policies have not been favouring women entrepreneurs.
She decried the fact that women cannot get loans to grow their businesses due to stringent conditions hence the reason most women’s businesses are still struggling.
Similarly, Chenge faulted the system where huge funds would be announced to support women’s businesses but the women cannot assess it due to unrealistic conditions that they cannot meet.
While progress was undeniable, challenges persist. Gender bias, access to capital, and balancing family responsibilities are obstacles that many female entrepreneurs face. Nonetheless, these challenges have only fueled the determination of women to break stereotypes and prove their capabilities.
“Women deserve more as Nigeria celebrates 63rd anniversary because more women are becoming breadwinners in their homes now.
“Nigeria owes women a lot, women contribute a lot to nation building and achieving a lot from the home front to the work places and business space we only need more enabling environment to do better,” Arafina said.
“The federal government should provide special funds with less conditions that women can assess because the conditions are overwhelming and in the end each year the funds are not assessed while many businesses collapse.
“Where will a woman farmer who is trying to expand and needs a loan get the kind of collateral being demanded before they can get the loan,” Chenge queried.
“There should be an assessment body to check if the released funds are well assessed or not and find lasting solutions so that women can assess the funds to grow their businesses,” she added.
Amidst societal restraints in politics and business, Nigerian women have left their imprints in the arts, literature, and sports. Writers like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Buchi Emecheta have captivated the world with their storytelling, while athletes like Blessing Okagbare and D’Tigress, the Nigerian women’s basketball team, have brought pride and glory to the nation through their sporting achievements.
Despite these remarkable successes, it’s essential to acknowledge that Nigerian women still face numerous challenges. Gender inequality persists, and issues like gender-based violence and limited access to education continue to hinder progress. However, the resilience and determination of Nigerian women have not waned. Grassroots organisations, activists, and advocates are working tirelessly to address these issues and create a more equitable society.
Expectations from govt
In spite of all the achievements and progress of women a lot still needs to be done to towards their development and safety in the country.
The minister said women were expecting more attention and empowerment from the government, stressing that when they are empowered their lives get busy, they are changed for better and there will be peace in the homes.
“So, women are expecting empowerment, better protection from the government to mention a few.
“Children are also very expectant of protection from the government; as we speak a man in Enugu state will soon be jailed for defiling a child. This has never happened like this and I have spoken to the police to know that any other way will not work except he goes to court let the court be the judge. He is in custody, and I doubt the possibility of him going free.
“We need protection and change of the status quo so we should celebrate the independence as permanent freedom and road to success for us all,” the minister added.
On her part, Chenge has expectations that at 63 the President Bola Tinubu should give women a bash by appointing more women, adding that once the Federal government sets the ball rolling on women’s inclusion the states will naturally follow suit.
She further encouraged women to know that success is not easy to attain especially in politics and so women should keep being resilient as they progress in the journey.
“Women should know that success is not easy. The men ate nor served positions they worked for it so women must be resilient in chasing political ambition irrespective of the challenges. Don’t be discouraged,” she urged.
The success stories of women’s endeavours in different fields serve as inspiring examples for the younger generation of women and even men; from the tech-savvy founders of innovative startups to the seasoned executives of established enterprises, women are proving that gender is no barrier to success.
Their achievements are not just about economic gains; they are also driving positive social change.
As Nigeria enters its 63rd year as an independent nation, it is imperative to recognize and celebrate the remarkable contributions of its women.
Their resilience, strength, and unwavering commitment to positive change have been instrumental in shaping the nation’s past and will undoubtedly play a vital role in its future.
In commemorating the 63rd anniversary, it is pertinent to recognise the immense potential that lies in empowering Nigerian women to reach even greater heights, for their success is Nigeria’s success, and their dreams are Nigeria’s dreams.
