Nigeria has emphasized the need for stronger Pan-African partnerships to drive progress for African women and girls. This call was made by Nigeria's Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Imam Sulaiman-Ibrahim, at the 10th anniversary edition of the Africa Women Conference (AWC) in Accra, Ghana. The minister stressed the importance of exchanging proven practices and aligning continental commitments with national policies and grassroots implementation to achieve meaningful change.
The 10th Africa Women Conference, themed "A Decade of Impact: From Commitments to Action—Advancing Justice, Economic Power and Leadership for African Women and Girls," brings together women leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to develop practical solutions for African women's advancement. The conference, convened by Dr. Jumai Ahmadu, aims to provide a platform for women to shape policy conversations, gain visibility for their enterprises, and strengthen their leadership potential.
Nigeria has recently made significant strides in advancing women's rights and empowerment. On 28 October 2026, the Federal Executive Council endorsed three important national instruments: the National Action Plan on Ending Violence Against Children, the National Policy on Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management (2026–2030), and the National Care Policy and Implementation Plan (2026–2030). These policies demonstrate Nigeria's commitment to addressing critical issues affecting women and girls.
The Africa Women Conference has consistently provided a platform for women's voices to be heard and their experiences to shape policy conversations. Over the years, the conference has brought together women leaders, policymakers, development partners, entrepreneurs, academics, civil society organizations, traditional institutions, and young people to drive progress for African women and girls.
The 2-day conference features prominent speakers, including Princess Hauwa Tanimu Aduda, CEO of Phinada Group of Companies and Founder of PHPA Grassroot Girls STEM Alliance, who is Chairperson of the AWC 10th Anniversary Edition. Other notable speakers include Mrs. Ngozi Oyewole, President of Commonwealth Business Women Africa, Ambassador Jacquelin Mohair from Atlanta, and Dr. Cecilia Idika-Kalu, a Global Security and Gender scholar.
A Conference Sub-theme Paper will be delivered by Her Highness Hajiya Hawa Kulu Ibrahim, wife of His Royal Majesty Alhaji (Dr) Adamu Baba Yunusa, Ona of Abaji and Chairman, FCT Council of Chiefs. The paper is expected to provide valuable insights and perspectives on the conference theme and sub-themes.
The Africa Women Conference serves as a critical platform for advancing justice, economic power, and leadership for African women and girls. As the conference concludes, participants are expected to develop practical solutions and strategies for driving progress in these areas. The conference outcomes are expected to contribute to the achievement of continental commitments and national policies aimed at empowering African women and girls.
Key points
- Nigeria's Minister of Women Affairs calls for stronger Pan-African partnerships to drive progress for African women and girls.
