Over two thousand African women leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals on Thursday 7 November 2024, converged at the Eko Hotels & Suites in Lagos for the 23rd Annual Conference of Women in Management, Business, and Public Service (WIMBIZ). Themed “Dream. Dare. Do.,” the two-day hybrid event encouraged women to pursue their ambitions with courage and resilience.

In his keynote address, former Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo emphasised the critical role of women leaders in addressing Nigeria’s socioeconomic challenges. He called for decisive action to dismantle gender and economic barriers, especially in underserved regions like Northern Nigeria.

“Your collective voice and actions hold the potential to change lives”, Osinbajo stated; urging women to leverage their influence to drive positive social change.

Speaking with Women Radio 91.7, Omowumi Akingbohungbe, Executive Director of WIMBIZ, explained that this year’s theme addresses the pressing challenges confronting Nigerian women today, and highlights the need for collective collaboration across industries. She encouraged women to strategise, build relationships and take bold action.

“The best way to achieve this, is through seeing those who have succeeded share their stories and mentor others,” Akingbohungbe added.

Dr Abiri Gbonjubola, a Consultant Psychiatrist and one of the speakers on the panel session, shed light on often-overlooked stressors affecting women. She emphasised the importance of mutual support among women and the need for greater self-awareness.

Dr Gbonjubola introduced her “4Ls” concept –Listen, Learn, Look, and Link–urging women to actively seek out supportive networks and define success on their own terms.

The WIMBIZ 23rd Annual Conference left attendees inspired to pursue their goals with renewed clarity, courage, and resilience, fostering an environment for collaboration and lasting change in women’s inclusion and leadership across Africa.

Aisha Sanni
news@wfm917.com
Women Radio 91.7