Minister Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim Hosts Second Edition of Nigerian Women’s Day In New York, US

The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim FSI, hosted the second edition of Nigerian Women’s Day in New York on the sidelines of the Commission on the Status of Women 70th Session, bringing together global leaders, policymakers, advocates and members of the Nigerian diaspora to celebrate the achievements and global impact of Nigerian women.

The event, themed “31 Years of Progress, Resilience, Impact and Renewed Hope,” highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to advancing gender equality and promoting inclusive national development in line with the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

In her Ministerial Address, Sulaiman-Ibrahim called for stronger global partnerships and increased investment in women and girls, noting that empowering women is essential for economic growth, national security and sustainable development. She also highlighted the Ministry’s Renewed Hope Social Impact Interventions 774 (RH-SII-774) framework, designed to reach women across Nigeria’s 774 local government areas through programmes focused on economic empowerment, digital inclusion, health, agriculture, leadership development and family resilience.

The Minister emphasised that transforming the lives of women requires sustained commitment and coordinated action from governments, development partners and civil society.

Delivering the welcome address, the Chair of the Board of Directors of Women Radio WFM 91.7, Toun Okewale Sonaiya, highlighted the importance of collaboration and innovation in advancing women’s leadership. She also outlined several initiatives focused on empowering women and amplifying their voices across Nigeria.

The event featured high-level panel discussions examining women’s leadership, economic empowerment and inclusive governance. Participants included Abosede George-Ogan, Executive Director Women In Leadership Advancement Network (WILAN) who called for stronger collaboration between women and government institutions, encouraging women to build economic power and strengthen intergenerational networks that empower younger women.

Former Minister of Women Affairs Dame Pauline Tallen also emphasised the need to improve women’s access to finance and highlighted cooperative initiatives aimed at supporting women entrepreneurs.

The gathering also featured a high-level fireside conversation between the Minister and Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Amina J. Mohammed, where both leaders discussed strategies to advance gender equality and strengthen opportunities for women and girls globally.

The event combined policy dialogue with cultural expression, including presentations and performances celebrating African creativity and leadership.

Minister Sulaiman-Ibrahim noted that Nigerian Women’s Day has become an important platform for recognising the achievements of Nigerian women while strengthening global partnerships that support gender equality. She added that the initiative reflects Nigeria’s continued commitment to advancing women’s leadership, family stability and inclusive development both at home and on the global stage.