In a powerful display of solidarity, various Nigerian women groups on Friday paid a surprise visit to the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, assuring her of unwavering support amid recent protests by ministry staff that trended on social media.
The delegation, led by the President of the National Council of Women Societies (NCWS), Princess Edna Azura, NAWOJ National Chairperson, Hajiya Aisha Ibrahim, President of NILOWV, Mrs. Irene Awunah-Ikyegh, and INWOAD President, Evelyn Onyilo, described the protests as a calculated attempt to distract and undermine the progress the Minister has been recording in championing the cause of women and children nationwide.
“We are here in our numbers to let you know that Nigerian women are with you. No one will be allowed to disrupt the good work you are doing for women across the country,” said NAWOJ National Chairperson, Hajiya Aisha Ibrahim.
The president Nigeria Association of Women Journalists NAWOJ , at the occasion said NAWOJ has watched with admiration the numerous programmes to empower Nigerian women by the Minister and assured her of NAWOJ readiness to stand by her and to amplify her voice and that of other women in leadership positions .
Echoing the
same sentiment, NCWS President Princess Azura stressed:
“The era of pull-her-down syndrome is over in Nigeria. We will not allow anyone to use us against each other. Nigerian women are wiser, stronger, and more united than ever.”
Also present were APC Deputy National Women Leader, Hajiya Zainab, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Hon. Ginika Tor, and other female politicians who described the Minister as a reformer making history.
Minister Douses Protest Tensions, Forgives Workers
Earlier in the day, the Minister held a town hall meeting with protesting staff, where she warmly forgave them and pledged to improve welfare and working conditions.
“Unity is the only way forward. I have nothing against anyone. We can solve our challenges through dialogue and mutual respect,” the Minister assured, drawing loud applause from staff.
Renewed Commitment to Women and Children
While addressing the women leaders, Minister Suleiman-Ibrahim reaffirmed her loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, noting that the 2025 budget for the Ministry of Women Affairs had reached a record high for the first time in Nigeria’s history. She also expressed deep gratitude to First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her unwavering dedication to the welfare of women and children.
The Minister further announced plans to hold a “mother of all rallies of Nigerian women” in Abuja, aimed at showcasing unity, resilience, and a renewed collective voice.
Leaders of FOMWAN and WOWICAN capped the solidarity visit with prayers for the Minister, the Ministry, and the nation at large.
Signed:
NAWOJ FCT Media Team