By| Goodluck E.Adubazi, Abuja
Nigeria has recorded another major diplomatic milestone with the election of Mrs. Esther Eghobamien Mshelia to the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), as the Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to advancing women’s rights, economic empowerment and inclusive development.
At a special reception held in honour of the newly elected CEDAW Committee member, the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, fsi, called on stakeholders across the women affairs sector to embrace unity, collaboration and innovation in accelerating sustainable development for Nigerian women.
The Minister described economic empowerment as the foundation of women’s development and national prosperity, stressing that financial independence gives women greater influence and opportunities to contribute meaningfully to society.
“There is no place for a poor woman in Nigeria. Economic empowerment is not optional—it is our priority. When women have economic power, they also have a stronger voice in society,” she declared.
She urged women leaders, government agencies and development partners to complement one another rather than compete, insisting that collective action remains the key to transforming the lives of millions of Nigerian women and children.
“Let us recognise our individual roles, complement each other and not compete. Together we are stronger, and together we can transform the lives of millions of Nigerian women and children,” she said.
The Minister also challenged public servants and partners to remain proactive, committed and solutions-driven, adding that excellence in public service is anchored on integrity, sacrifice and dedication.
Reflecting on the values inherited from her late father, Hajiya Imaan encouraged Nigerians to embrace honesty, hard work, prudent investment and service to humanity as pathways to lasting prosperity and responsible leadership.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye, described Nigeria’s successful election into the CEDAW Committee as a significant diplomatic achievement made possible through strategic collaboration and the visionary leadership of the Honourable Minister.
She noted that Nigeria’s campaign at the United Nations showcased the country’s renewed global relevance, with effective branding and teamwork helping the nation emerge successfully among competing countries.
“This experience proved that Nigeria can achieve remarkable results when we work as one team. The support and leadership of the Honourable Minister inspired us throughout the entire process,” she said.
Mrs. Esuabana also commended the Minister for championing the recognition of the Care Economy as a strategic sector capable of creating jobs, boosting national revenue and improving the livelihoods of women across Nigeria.
Speaking emotionally, Mrs. Esther Eghobamien Mshelia expressed profound appreciation to the Minister and the Ministry for their unwavering support throughout her election campaign.
She said Nigeria continues to command respect on the global stage because of its commitment to gender equality and its fulfilment of international obligations.
“Outside Nigeria, the respect accorded to our country is enormous. Because of your leadership and support, Nigeria remains visible and influential in global conversations on women’s rights. We must continue telling Nigeria’s success stories to the world,” she said.
Mrs. Mshelia pledged to work closely with the Ministry and relevant stakeholders to ensure Nigeria continues to meet its reporting obligations under CEDAW while advancing policies that protect and promote the rights of women and girls.
Delivering a goodwill message, President of the National Council of Women’s Societies (NCWS), Princess Edna D. D. Azura, congratulated Mrs. Mshelia on her election and praised the Minister for her visionary and resilient leadership.
She reaffirmed the commitment of the NCWS nationwide to support government initiatives aimed at promoting women’s development and empowerment.
Also speaking, renowned gender advocate and veteran journalist, Mrs. Moji Makanjuola, called on Nigerian women to deliberately support and uplift one another rather than engage in unhealthy rivalry.
She stressed that genuine collaboration, sincerity and mutual support are essential for building enduring institutions and achieving sustainable national development.
“We can only build enduring legacies when we work together. Let us engage, support one another and put Nigeria first. Collaboration is the key to lasting impact,” she said.
The event ended with renewed commitments from government officials, civil society organisations, women’s groups and development partners to strengthen partnerships, promote economic empowerment, enhance Nigeria’s global visibility and accelerate the implementation of women’s rights and gender equality initiatives across the country.
The gathering further reinforced the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development’s determination to position Nigeria as a leading voice in women’s empowerment, inclusive governance and sustainable development on both the national and international stage.
