Women seek empowerment in leadership, decision-making

Ms Ify Onyegbule, Executive Director of Women of Substance (WOS), has called for the creation of a safe space to empower women’s participation in decision-making, politics, and governance.
Onyegbule, who is also the Director General of Imo Broadcasting Corporation (IBC), made the call during the Women Conversations programme organised by WOS in Lagos on Friday.
The event was held to commemorate the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) and focused on the theme: ‘Accelerate Action on the Rights, Equality, and Empowerment of Women & Girls.’
She emphasised the need for greater female participation in leadership, stating that more women in power would lead to positive societal impacts.
Onyegbule urged women to stand out and take bold steps towards making their voices heard in decision-making processes.
“Governance is not the only area where women are lacking. Many things are not as they should be.
“I believe that when a woman is empowered, many things fall into place. We need to move forward and change the status quo,” she said.
She noted that, at times, women themselves contribute to their struggles by waiting for men to grant them opportunities.
“No man will give you anything. You must fight for yourself, liberate your mind, and push your boundaries.
“The voices of women must be heard,” Onyegbule added.
Mrs Victoria Ajayi, CEO of TVC Communications, described women as “game changers” who drive visible, positive change in society.
Speaking on ‘Ensuring Fair Representation and Positive Reportage of Women,’ she highlighted the media’s role in addressing poverty, insecurity, and violence affecting women.
She stressed the urgent need to equip women with education, skills, and training to help them reach their full potential.
Ajayi emphasised that women’s involvement in legislation and decision-making would drive national development.
“Unfortunately, there are still too few women in high-level decision-making roles in Nigeria.
“Globally, Nigeria ranks among the lowest in women’s political participation, placing 178th out of 182 countries.
“If women are not allowed in the highest seats of power, no real change will happen for us,” she added.
Speaking, Olori Janet Afolalbi, the Queen of Apomu Kingdom, advocated for empowering rural women with resources and skills to sustain their livelihoods.
She suggested that the government introduce policies providing rural women with minimal financial support to start businesses.
“For example, giving them ₦50,000 through a credible system would help ensure they use the funds effectively.
“There should be proper screening and monitoring to prevent misuse of the funds,” she added.
Ms Ranti Ajayi, Clinic Manager at Nordica Fertility Centre, called for safe spaces where women can access knowledge on healthy living.
Speaking on ‘Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle in a Challenging Economy,’ she urged women to prioritise their well-being.
“We must break cultural barriers that limit women from achieving their full potential.
“Even if a woman is empowered, she cannot thrive without good health,” she added.
Ajayi dismissed the notion that only the wealthy can afford a healthy lifestyle.
“With whatever resources you have, you can still take care of your health and eat well,” she said.