Embrace Mentorship, Create Opportunities for Others, Sulaiman- Ibrahim Tells Women in Lagos

Minister of Women Affairs, Hon Imaan Sulaiman Ibrahim, has called on Nigerian women to embrace mentorship and collaboration, not only as a mentee seeking guidance but also as a mentor creating opportunities for others.

Speaking at the 13th edition of the Business day Inspiring Woman series on Tuesday at the Civic Center in Lagos, the minister maintained that Nigerian women can build a sustainable cycle of empowerment for generations to come.

Emphasizing the importance of mentorship, the minister stated : “I have been fortunate to have mentors who guided me through uncharted territories and inspired me to lift others as I climbed.

“Today, I urge every woman here to embrace mentorship, not only as a mentee seeking guidance but also as a mentor creating opportunities for others. Together, we can build a sustainable cycle of empowerment for generations to come.

“I am delighted to stand before you today, not only as the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs but also as a woman whose life journey reflects the essence of this event’s theme: The Audacity to Dare.

“My academic pursuits, from childhood to my current role, have instilled in me a deep understanding of society’s complexities and a passion for fostering equity and inclusion. These experiences have equipped me with the courage to challenge the status quo and embrace leadership roles in spaces where women’s voices are often underrepresented.”

She added that the theme, The Audacity to Dare, resonates deeply with the “Emi lo kan” mantra that defined the campaign of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“Emi lo kan”, meaning “It is my turn”, is not just a slogan—it is a powerful call to action and a challenge to recognize when the moment has come to rise and claim one’s place in shaping meaningful change. This same boldness has paved the way for my contributions as a leader and advocate for women’s empowerment.

” President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda lays a strong foundation for a Nigeria where women are empowered to thrive, innovate, and lead. Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu, through the Renewed Hope Initiative, has further reinforced this vision by creating opportunities for women, families, and communities to flourish. These initiatives remind us that daring to dream must translate into actionable steps that bring tangible benefits to every segment of society.”

Sulaiman Ibrahim who made references to her personal life stories, said that daring to lead has never been a solitary pursuit but one rooted in mentorship, collaboration, and building support systems with those who have previously occupied similar spaces.

“This philosophy informed my invitation to former Ministers of Women Affairs during my first major outing as Minister, at the flag-off of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence on November 25th. Today, December 10th, we mark Human Rights Day, the conclusion of these activities. However, we must not wait for designated days to take action against the injustices and vices that undermine humanity.

“I have been fortunate to have mentors who guided me through uncharted territories and inspired me to lift others as I climbed. Today, I urge every woman here to embrace mentorship, not only as a mentee seeking guidance but also as a mentor creating opportunities for others. Together, we can build a sustainable cycle of empowerment for generations to come.”

She called on the organizers of the series, Fui Ajumobi, and all stakeholders present to align their efforts with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs.

” Specifically, I encourage collaboration in implementing three transformative frameworks:

“The Revised National Gender Policy (2021–2026), which charts a clear path toward achieving gender equality across all sectors.

” The National Women Economic Empowerment (WEE) Policy, the first of its kind in Africa, which prioritizes financial inclusion and economic independence for women.

“The Women, Peace, and Security Architecture, anchored on the United Nations Resolution 1325, which ensures women’s full participation in peacebuilding and decision-making processes.

“These policies are critical for translating The Audacity to Dare into measurable progress for Nigerian women. I also emphasize the importance of registering with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and its State counterparts. This step facilitates partnerships, ensures alignment of efforts, and helps track and celebrate our collective successes, while avoiding working in silos.

“The Inspiring Woman Series celebrates the indomitable spirit of the Nigerian woman. It challenges us to lead with courage, collaborate effectively, and leave a legacy of mentorship and support. Leadership is not just about taking our turn—it is about paving the way for others to thrive.”

“Next year, we will celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Platform for Action alongside the 30th anniversary of the creation of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and its State counterparts as institutional mechanisms for advancing women’s rights. I promise to keep you informed about the activities lined up to commemorate these milestones.

“As Minister of Women Affairs, I remain steadfast in my commitment to advancing policies and programs that empower women and girls across Nigeria. Together, with boldness, collaboration, and a shared dedication to these frameworks, we can build a society where every woman dares to rise and thrive.

“Thank you, and may this event inspire us all to embrace mentorship, collaboration, and The Audacity to Dare.”

The Publisher of Business Day newspapers, Frank Aigbogun and the wife of Oyo State Governor, Her Excellency, Olufunke Tanimunino Makinde, urged women in the hall never to give up but to continue to.soar to greatness.