IWD 2025: Create an Enabling Environment for Women to Thrive

By Adesuwa Ehimuan

In commemoration of International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025, the Embassy of Belgium in Nigeria, in collaboration with Nigeria Women Economic Development (NigWED), organized a one-day seminar at the Belgian Embassy in Maitama, Abuja. Themed “Accelerating Action Towards Equality and Empowerment of Women and Girls in Nigeria,” the event brought together dignitaries from various sectors to discuss strategies for advancing gender equality.

In her welcome address, Mrs. Edesili Anani, Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Edo State, emphasized the importance of creating an enabling environment for women to thrive and accelerating action toward the empowerment of women and girls in Nigeria.

“Let us take decisive action to uphold the rights of women and girls, ensuring equality and empowerment for all. This is a call to unlock equal rights, power, and opportunities, particularly as we look towards empowering the next generation and marking the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action,” she stated.

Reflecting on this milestone, Mrs. Anani further highlighted the need for reaffirming the commitments of the Beijing Declaration at the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69).

“Women’s rights are human rights. When you empower women, you empower the world. Gender balance is not solely a women’s issue but an economic imperative that demands urgent attention,” she added.

She also commended the organizers for convening such a significant event to celebrate women globally.

In his welcome remarks, H.E. Peter Leenknegt, Ambassador of Belgium to Nigeria, described International Women’s Day as a powerful moment for reflection and action.

“The urgency of gender equality has never been greater, nor have the challenges been more apparent. However, our resolve remains unshakable,” he stated.

Similarly, Mr. Lugard Okorobo, Director-General of NigWED, underscored the importance of women understanding their fundamental human rights, stating that gender equality remains the most effective solution to many societal challenges.

“Every study, project, and partnership we engage in reinforces one truth—women’s equality is the key to sustainable progress,” he affirmed.

A highlight of the seminar was the presentation of a Certificate of Commendation and Recognition to Mrs. Edesili Anani for her outstanding contributions to women’s empowerment and development in Edo State and across Nigeria.

The event was attended by several distinguished guests, including H.E. Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, who emphasized the government’s commitment to promoting gender equality and supporting policies that empower women across Nigeria.

Also present was H.E. Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, MFR, Honourable Minister, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, H.E. Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Honourable Minister of State, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Dr. Ahmed Saba Adams, Chairman of the Nigeria-Belgium Parliamentary Group in the House of Representatives.

Other notable attendees included Ms. Rudy Ross, Director of the Association of Diplomatic Women in Nigeria, and Ms. Taibat Abdualrasak, Gender Affairs Representative to the Presidency, amongst others.

The event reaffirmed the need for collective efforts in fostering gender equality and empowering women and girls across Nigeria.