FCT WOMEN POST CSW 70 LEADERSHIP COLLOQUIUM

 On the 7th of April 2026, UN Women was host to Women Affairs Secretariat (WAS) FCTA at UN House in Abuja. The parley was to analyse policies, platforms and partnerships consequential to the post Convention on the Status of Women (CSW) 70 era in the FCT and beyond. CSW 70 was held between the 9th and 19th of March 2026. The theme was 'Rights, Justice & Action'. At least 37 member states were unanimous that access to justice is non-negotiable.

Banner for the FCT Women post CSW 70 parley where leaders championed relevant policies, platforms & partnerships

Some of the agreed conclusions at CSW 70 were:

*There should be equitable legal systems

*Abolish structural barriers that limit women

*The Universal Declaration of Human Rights & the Beijing Declaration should always be taken into consideration

*There should be safe, enabling and violence-free environment for women/girls

*There should be adequate funding for women's programmes/issues via gender-responsive budgeting i.e. resources should be allocated where needed

L-R: Dr. Dayo Oluyemi-Kusa, Krittayawan Tina Boonto (UNAIDS Country Director Nigeria), Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi (Mandate Secretary WAS-FCTA) & Aanu Benjamins-Laniyi (Daughter of MS-WAS)

Ms. Beatrice Eyong (UN Women Country Representative to Nigeria & ECOWAS) represented the UN Resident & Humanitarian Coordinator. If all humans are born free and equal, why is it that in 2026 women still do not have their freedom? Women cannot gain if there's no justice. Nigeria has a private sector led Sexual & Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) Prevention & Response Coalition. UN Women suports the activities of the coalition. There's a viable Sex Offenders' Register which should be updated regularly.

Dr. Princess Jumai Idonije (SA Technical to the Minister of Women Affairs) represented the Minister). 2026 has been declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the Year of Families. Social security measures cover at least 10 million households. The Renewed Hope Social Impact Intervention covers the 774 Local Government Area in the country - clean energy and secure livelihoods are a germane part of the deal. There's also the Women's Digital Harmony Initiative - the Happy Women's Hour. Over 20 million women have been mentored. There is the National Electronic Dashboard for reporting SGBV cases. Survivor support systems are in place. The Care Economy is now officially recognised. Unpaid work is scrutinised.

We need strong legal/policy frameworks like the National Women Economic Policy & VAPP Act. Beyond domestication, there should be gazetting and affirmative procurement systems. Apart from gender budgeting, there shouls be social inclusion. Women's participation in Parliament in Nigeria is below 10%, this should improve. Positive Masculinity should be adopted as a strategy. The National Boychils Policy is in order.

Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi (Mandate Secretary WAS-FCTA) reeled out some of the economic and social empowerment programmes initiated by her since she was appointed MS:

*Gender & Human Security: Focus on Women in the FCT. This is in collaboration with the University of Abuja (now Yakubu Gowon University) & the Office of the Security Adviser, FCT.

*The Abuja Accelerators project supported by UN Women  

*The Cassava (Apu) Women's project supported by UN Women

*Box Out GBV project in collaboration with NSCDC

A number of  WAS-FCTA associates gave solidarity messages: Wife of the Ona of Abaji, President NCWS - Princess Edna Azura, Mama Connect (A grassroots politician), etc. The various Departments within WAS-FCTA presented a synopsis of their work at the Secretariat.

In my intervention as Consultant to MS-WAS on WPS (Women, Peace & Security), I talked about the conference on 'Gender & Human Security: Focus on Women in the FCT'...It was a three-layered conference held in 2024. It began in March with engagement with WDOs (Women Development Officers). The WDOs elicited the rather similar security challenges in the six Area Councils of the FCT. Then came the Pre-Conference in June, where the other Secretariats in FCTA were invited to highlight the intersection of their work with security issues. They were unanimous that security of the FCT was and still is a cross-cutting issue. Without security, there can be no development. 

The Conference proper was a pot pourri of issues: Transportation, Health, Social Services, Agriculture, Education, AI (Artificial Intelligence), WWDs (Women With Disability), Safety in the digital space, Role of NSCDC in FCT security, Youth community engagement, Role of the Armed Forces, Self-safety AI tools for women, Food safety and CC (Climate Change). The issues were exhaustively discussed with a vision to make it an annual coference. But lack of funds continues to be a major deterrent in view of the fact that the conference could hold last year. We hope that we can hold it this year with the theme: Safety of FCT Women in Agriculture.

It was a robust meeting that connected the dots between the takeaways from the CSW 70 Conference and the work of WAS-FCTA. We look forward to CSW 71...

             Dr. Dayo Oluyemi-Kusa @ the WAS-FCTA Post CSW 70 Leadership Meeting

 

#GIVE TO GAIN: INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY (IWD) 2026

 Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN), celebrated International Women's Day (IWD) 2026 on the 12th of March at Abuja Continental Hotel. I was a valued participant. IWD is celebrated world wide on the 8th of March, but many organisations celebrate the day during the month of March at their convenience. DBN's celebration was spectacular because it culminated in a N6m windfall for six awardees who had undergone a three-month mentoring facilitated by the Bank and her partners...they had three more months to go to complete their six-month tutelage. Each of the young ladies got one million Naira to further develop her business. In essence DBN gave N6m to gain six promising female entrepreneurs for further grooming which could lead to excellence in their various enterprises - all in the spirit of #Give To Gain, the theme for IWD this year...Impressive! 

              L-R: Dr. Dayo Oluyemi-Kusa & Mrs. Kemi Adeosun (Keynote Speaker/Former Minister)

Mrs. Kemi Adeosun (Keynote Speaker & Former Minister): I have transited from the public sector to entrepreneurship. I have set up DashMe Foundation. There's a financing gap in Nigeria, and SMEs (Small & Medium Scale Enterprises) are filling this gap. SMEs need support. That's why what DBN is doing - supporting six female entreprereurs is worthy of emulation and it's in line with this year's theme for IWD. When I assumed office as Finance Minister, the DBN project had run aground. Alhaji Bukar ensured that my attention remained focused on it. Adaorah was my Special Adviser. Ijeoma blew us away at the interview. Tony Opara got the job, in spite of the fact that someone close to me was also an interviewee. The recruitment process for DBN was thorough! That's why the Bank remains solid till today...

We need to flip the script. We should stop fighting or appealing to be heard. We should start telling the stories of successful female entrepreneurs in various fields like the six young women we are celebrating today. I write for This Day Newspaper every Monday under the caption: 'This Day on Monday with Kemi Adeosun'. Money helps culture grow. We need DBN in each state plus the FCT. We should democratise wealth among women. Women are serious with money. Women have a history of paying back when they take loans. Women are 41% of SMEs and SMEs are 80% of the economy.

                                                                     Dr. Dayo Oluyemi-Kusa 

2nd from left Jacky Amprou (Country Director Agence Fracaise de Development - AFP); 3rd from left Dr. Dayo Oluyemi-Kusa & other participants

L-R: Dr. Dayo Oluyemi-Kusa & Mrs. Temitayo Oluyege (CEO May Couture/One of the six awardees that got N1m from DBN)

Dr. Dayo Oluyemi-Kusa: In my intervention, I made it abundantly clear that I attended the event because of Mrs. Kemi Adeosun. I said that at 68 years old and a retiree, I'm retired but not tired. I remain active as a viable Consultant in the fields of Gender, Conflict Transformation, Mediation, etc. What package does DBN have for active senior female citizens in business?

Fire Side Chat: Fatogbe, Awogbade & Osakwe highlighted their experiences as serial entrepreneurs. The bottom line: The female entrepreneur needs to be audacious and believe in herself even if no one else does. Mentorship is important. Women should stop being risk averse. Be your authentic self and have fearless ambition. You should know when to leave an organisation. Understand money and know how to invest.

It was an interesting time out with the six young female awardees who became instant millionaires. I urge you all to expend the money in the pursuit of excellence in your various enterprises.

 

  

ART IN THE AGE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)

 The title of this article is the subject matter of a viable collaboration involving a number of stakeholders: Nigeria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Atrium Gallery), American Embassy - Abuja, Slick Studios & International Institute for Creative Development (IICD). The convening was the brainchild of the CEO of IICD and Slick Studios - Nduwhite Ahononu and Malik Afegbua, two young artistes making waves beyond Nigeria. They collaborated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the American Embassy. 

The star of the show was Dr. Omoju Miller, multiple award winning American citizen of Nigerian descent. Omoju was the Keynote Speaker and Lead Facilitator at the Workshop. The Opening Ceremony was held at Arts Centre, opposite Radio House (26 February 2026) while the Workshop proper was held at 3, Kachia Close, Area 3, Garki, Abuja (27th February - 3rd March 2026). I was a valued participant, but not a member of the inaugural Cohort unveiled at the opening ceremony...

                                              Dr. Omoju Miller (Keynote Speaker/Lead Facilitator)

Some of the other speakers at the Opening Ceremony were: Minister of Foreign Affairs (Represented by Temitope Atiba, SA to Minister of Foreign Affairs); Public Diplomacy Counselor, US Embassy in Abuja - Lee McManis and Mandate Secretary, Women Affairs Secretariat, FCTA - Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi.

Amb. Yusuf Maitama Tuggar (Minister of Foreign Affairs, represented by Temitope Atiba, SA on Policy & Special Duties): AI is often tied to the originality of expression. AI is not a replacement for creativity. We should democratise access to cultural exchange. We lay emphasis on AI proficiency in the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs. We have an AI Unit. AI is a viable catalyst for responsible advancement. In the Ministry, we use AI in tandem with the 4Ds foreign policy of Nigeria - Democracy, Development, Demography & Diaspora. Cultural diplomacy builds understanding beyond the negotiation table. The Atrium Gallery of the Ministry will make the product of this workshop available to the public. Technology should advance creativity rather than diminish it. Tech may accelerate our world, but wisdom must guide it...

Lee McManis (Public Diplomacy Counsellor, US Embassy, Abuja): I am delighted to welcome Omoju Miller to Nigeria. She is a US citizen and the US government sponsored her trip to Abuja. Omoju is one of the most promising technology and AI experts through time. AI is now used in national security, medicine, peace & conflict studies, etc. American AI Tech is the gold standard world wide. The US has at least $700b available for AI infrasructure in 2026 alone. In October 2025, there was Open AI at the University of Lagos where the US Embassy collaborated with Fate Foundation. The African Action Plan & AI Diplomacy/Security were formulated there. This conference is about opportunity - specifically how the US and Nigeria can use AI and indeed Robotics for good...

Dr. Omoju Miller (US based AI Expert/Computer Scientist/Google, Microsoft & AMALL Consultant/Keynote Speaker/Lead Facilitator): I am the Founder of FIMIO, berthed 3 years ago. It's time to tackle the twin evils of fraud and coordination problems in Web 3. And to do that, we have raised $2.195m with https://lnkd.in/eU-8Jehx, The House Fund, Redpoint Labs, Protocol Labs and some dream angels like Nat Friedman and Stephanie Shear...Read more here - https://lnkd.in/ep53hpu3 (Credit: Dr. Omoju Miller's LinkedIn page/profile)...

Permissionless systems change the world. Nigeria is quite advanced in the Open Source/Software Data arena. We invited all Open Source users to Lagos last year, and this eventually led to the acquisition of PayStack. Here's a short history of creative tools. The Printing Press produced books since 1440. Then came the Camera, leading to questions like: 'Is AI-generated art real art?'. Inspite of the camera, paintings didn't die.

For Digital Tools Synthesis, The Bronx descendants from Nigeria used anything and everything to create music. Beginning of Afrobeat and Reggae? Then came Desktop Publishing. AI is the current revolution. Is AI coming for my job as a Film-maker, Designer, Musician, etc? For Script Writers, for example, AI is useful for Voice Reading. Use ChatGPT, ChatCloud, etc. Load the backgroung of all your characters and let translators of how to use tools like Omoju Miller do the analysis. AI is your creative partner not your replacement. Note that Nigeria's creative space is exploding - The glamour of Met Gala was superseded by AMVCA.

AI enables Rapid Phototyping, Production Scaling and Style Exploration while removing drudgery. Just imagine if Wakanda was real, what would it have looked like? AI elicits Brainstorming Partners, Structural Editing, Research Acceleration, Adaptation Sonic Exploration, Sound Track, Post Production Power, Distribution and Reach. There's a germane intersection of technology with creativity. AI allows you to see further and faster. With AI doing much of the routine work, the artiste has free time to compose more and produce better! What changes when co-creation gets ten times faster? There's more iteration, more ambition and indeed, more time for your art.

Now to the difficult questions. The fears are real: Theft of style, Loss of meaning, Race to the bottom and Homogenisation. What about the irreplaceable human element? There are things AI cannot do like having taste, meaning something, knowing your audience, taking creative risks and feeling your work. Art is like a connection to the artiste's spirit/soul - know your audience. You should navigate AI responsibly and responsively. 

Some creative forms did not exist before AI - Interactive narratives: stories that adapt to each other; Generative art; Cross model creation and Hyper-sense. Before AI, we only had Ideation, Photocopying, Iteration, Production and Distribution. The myth of the born creative is not necessarily true. Creative mastery comes ffrom deliberate practice, exposure to diverse influences and the willingness to iterate. AI does not replace creative talent, it removes the friction. 

There were questions about copyright and originality in the use of AI. Omoju's response was that licensing would solve that problem. For example, creatives can license their products as: Open Source Software, MIT Licence, Creative Commerce Licence, etc

Dr. Dayo Oluyemi-Kusa (Participant, not member of Inaugural Cohort /Writer of this Blog Post/ Retiree/Gender & Conflict Transformation Consultant): There was an interlude when Dr. Omoju Miller and Lee McManis left and the compere asked for interventions rom the floor. I stated clearly why I was there: As a 68 year old retiree still actively engaged Consultancy, Training of Trainers, Public Speaking, Engaged as a Chartered Mediator, etc. I am paticularly interested in leveraging AI to enhance my output. Older persons still actively engaged in the creative space should be given their flowers by creating at least a small segment of this kind of engagement to address their concerns. I've learnt so much here today that I couldn't have been anywhere better. I hope future conferences on AI would take our needs into consideration...Please check out my earlier Blogpost titled 'Artificial Intelligence and Africa' via this link - dayokusa.blogspot.com/2018/08/artificial-intelligence-ai-africa.html

Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi (Mandate Secretary, Women Affairs Secretariat - FCTA): Before AI was HI (Human Intelligence) and EI (Emotional Intelligence). There's inter-model and inter-connectivity. 'Niger no dey carry last' (Nigerians are always at the fore-front, numero uno in many fields). We have many original stories like 'Tales by Moonlight', etc. But as Mandate Secretary, WAS-FCTA, I'm particularly interested in the Art of Feminity in AI. The Art of Feminity entails various aspects of the feminine form - themes of nature, nurturing, female elders as 'super models' on the catwalk. There's an intersection of the feminine AI and the feminity of AI.

Working with women as I do, is working with the community. Human input into AI makes the latter learn about our history, art, heart/soul and values. We should give women a bigger 'corset space'. If women are absent from rooms where AI is being discussed, something vital is missing. AI is not not just an evolving concept, it's a revolution in the making...

R-L: Nduwhite Ahononu (Co-Convener of Conference), Dr. Omoju Miller (Founder FIMIO Inc/Keynote Speaker/Lead Facilitator), Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi (Mandate Secretary WAS-FCTA), Dr. Taiye Jasper (PA to MS-WAS FCTA)

Ahmed Bashiru Sodangi (DG National Gallery of Art): Technology plays a role in shaping artistic legacy. Accelerated ideation via AI helps artistes overcome writer's block. AI is the future of mankind. STEAM - Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Mathematics says it all. The Arts are firmly embeded in there! AI has replaced stunts. Art is a moment captured in eternity. Mona Lisa took nine years to paint. AI has re-constructed it in probably a few minutes or seconds. AI actually restores torn canvass. 

AI has been described as the microwave industry. If the artiste can visualise it, AI can do the finishing, AI accelerates production and reduces cost. AI refines high-targeted, data-driven advertising platforms. AI and technological innovation must co-exist. Every creative must embrace creative technology, including AI...

Hon. Simi Fajemirokun (SSA to Minister of Foreign Affairs represented): Technology is changing how we work. AI is a powerful equaliser. AI prototype is indeed very fast. What happens to authroship when a machine can do most of the work? Traditional forms of art seem to be more visible in the age of AI - the artiste has more free time to 'perfect' his/her art because AI is available to do the repetitive part. The opportunity for us is collaboration. Politicians, cultural diplomats and indeed nations tell their stories and AI can aid them. Art has always evolved with technology, AI is just the next chapter...

Obi Asika (DG National Council for Arts & Culture - NCAC): I came along with Tobe and Bethia who are our Cultural Ambassadors at NCAC. There's an intersection of Art and Technology. We set up the Council for Creative Technology, which comprises eleven members. There's also the National AI Institute. Creative expression is limitless. AI is not just about tech, it's about civilisation. AI entails the re-telling and re-framing of our history. Remember that AI is not magic, it's artificial memory - garbage in, garbage out.

Our DNA as Nigerians is 98% the same. We need to bring more of our perspectives together via AI. For example, we are leveraging on 'Origins', 'Detty December' and 'Niger Season' for our Unity Campaign. We know for example, that Oredo (Edo state) is the final burial place of the Queen of Sheeba! We need to un-earth more of such 'facts'...

The Opening Ceremony and the hands-on Workshop for the Pioneer Cohort were quite engaging. We look forward to the next steps...

  

NIGERIA's 3RD NAP (NATIONAL ACTION PLAN) ON UNSCR 1325

 On the 15th of December 2025, Nigeria's 3rd National Action Plan (NAP) on the implementation of the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 was launched at the Banquet Hall, State House, FCT-Abuja by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs in collaboration with UN Women (Nigeria), German Cooperation, Norwegian Embassy and Strengthening Peace & Resilience in Nigeria (SPRING). I was there live! Why is the 3rd NAP necessary? So much water has passed under the bridge in Nigeria since the implementation of the 1st and 2nd NAPs. The following have intensified: terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, criminality, rape, etc.The 1st and 2nd NAPs were launched in 2013 and 2017 respectively on the heels of UNSCR 1325 (2000) because a  major requirement of UNSCR 1325 is that State Parties should implement its provisions at Federal, State and Local Government (LG) levels. UNSCR 1325 acknowledges that armed conflict impacts women differently from men and demands protection for women...

 

R-L @ the entrance of the Banquet Hall - State House Abuja, venue of teh launch of the 3rd NAP: Dr. Dayo Oluyemi-Kusa, Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi (Mandate Secretary WAS-FCTA), A Gender Activist, Ms. Irene Awuna (President League of Women Voters), & Ms. Grace Awodu (Gender Activist/Head of Programmes - League of Women Voters/Former Head of Gender Unit - IPCR)

Hon. Wosilat Ogbara (Chair, House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs): It's necessary and important to translate national programmes like the 3rd NAP to the grassroots. Any scheme that excludes wome is unsustainable. Can we continue to neglect half of our population - women? The answer is 'no'. Women and children bear a disproportionate burden of conflict. A plan without an implementation strategy is a broken promise. The House of Representatives Commitee on Women Affairs is committed to the NAPs. The National Assembly is likely to vote on the Reserved Seats Bill (HB 1349) this week. Lobbying for the passage of the Bill has intensified...Peace is not achieved by silence. Peace is built when justice prevails. Let the 3rd NAP become a living instrument. The task before us now is effective implementation. History will judge us by the lives we have changed...

Dr. Ukoha Ukiwo (Team Lead, SPRING): A lot of effort has been made by the UK government to support peace and stability in Nigeria. I commend the leadership of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and the First Lady of Nigeria for the actualisation of the 3rd NAP. SPRING promotes the meaningful participation of women in peace processes and national development. We are committed to supporting the NAP's domestication and implementation. We are supporting at the Federal, State and Local Government levels.

Dr. Joseph Ochogwu (DG IPCR Represented by Ms. Susan Uwakwe - Gender Unit IPCR): The NAPs align with the President's Renewed Hope Agenda (RHA). We should always remember that women are at the centre of peacebuilding and conflict resolution. I bring you warm greetings from the DG, Dr Joseph Ochogwu...

Dr. Eleanor Nwadinobi (Medical Doctor/Women's Health Activist/1st Nigerian to be elected President, Medical Women's International Association - MWIA): Violence against women in the private sphere is prevalent in Nigeria. We need to de-escalate this negative trend. We should remember that violence in the private sphere is a predictor of violence in the public sphere. In the analysis of at least 40 peace processes, the finding was that when women were involved in peace processes agreements are more likely to last more than 50 years! We all should be dedicated and accountable to WPS...

Ms. Bridget Taila (Nigeria Security & Civil Defense Corps - NSCDC): I bring you greetings from my Corps Commander. We need inclusive peace which would ultimately lead to safer communities.

Wata Saheed (Representative of UN Women/UNICEF): The challenges of incssant abduction and insurgency are addressed in the 3rd NAP. The ultimate test of our resolve to succeed in this endeavour would be in the successful implementation of the 3rd NAP at the Federal, State and Local Government levels. We need to localise the 3rd NAP in the 36 states and FCT. This would be another step towards Gender Equality and Women Empowerment...

Then came the Skit which emphasised the need to effectively involve women in peace processes, while protecting children and their mothers (indeed all women and girls) always. In the skit, there were actresses and actors representing the following: Minister of Women Affairs, a Major General, a Lawyer, a Chief and of course, women who came into their meeting to seek inclusion...

Mrs. Valita Bashir (DG Maryam Babangida Centre for Women Development - MBCWD): This is indeed a historic occasion for Nigerian women. As a Parastatal under the Ministry of Women Affairs, MBCWD would support all effort ensure resounding success for the 3rd NAP.

Peter Mancha (Representative UN Women/Presenter of the Overview of NAP): The NAP was adopted as the implementation arm of UNSCR (2000) in Party States. Conflict affects women disproportionately. Women have the potential to contribute to national security. The 1st NAP was in 2013 while the 2nd NAP was in 2017. There are 4 Pillars in WPS: Participation, Protection, Prevention, Relief/Recovery. Early Warning & Early Response (EWER) must be gender-sensitive. IDP camps do not need only bags of rice and other food items, the women in such places also need sanitary pads. The 1st and 2nd NAPs had some challenges: *lack of awareness *Limited political will *Weak coordination *Limited adoption of the multi-sectoral approach 

We note that the priority areas of the 3rd NAP align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda and we are delighted that the Presidency has pledged full support for the programme. We have also got commitment from the Chief of Army Staff ((COAS) and the Leadership of the National Assembly (NASS). The 3 Consultants (experts) worked in the 6 geo-political zones. The multi-sectoral approach was developed.

Hon. Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim (Minister of Women Affairs): The Dean of Commissioners of Women Affairs in Nigeria is duly acknowledged. Women should be able to claim ownership of the 3rd NAP via their LGAs. Today, we are standing at the threshold of history: 30 years since the Beijing Conference; 30 years since the establishment of the Ministry of Women Affairs and 25 years of navigating UNSCR 1325. As we already know, the 1st NAP was in 2013 while the 2nd was in 2017. The 3rd NAP is closely aligned to national and international realities. The President is passionate about social inclusion, human security and gender sensitivity. The Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) is transforming UNSCR 1325 into action. Inclusion normalises women being formidable players in all spheres, including spaces traditionally monopolised by men. We see women rising. Remember that this year we are celebrating 70 years of women in the Police Force (See for example: dayokusa.blogspot.com/nigeria-police-women-at-70.html)

R-L: Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi (Mandate Secretary WAS-FCTA, Dr. Eleanor Nwadinobi (Fmr. President MWIA), Hon. Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim ((Minister of Women Affairs & Social Development) & Dr. Princess Jumai Idonije (SSA Technical to Minister of Women Affairs & SD)

In the Committee on NAP 3, we are engaging: retired officers in the Armed Forces, Conflict Transformation Experts, etc. Lest we forget, there have been some institutional gains: *Traditional leaders have included more women in decision-making *Kudos to the 10th National Assembly for sponsoring the Reserved Seats Bill (See for example: dayokusa.blogspot.com/public-hearing-of-rsb-hb-1349-reserved.html) *Many Bank CEOs in Nigeria are women, etc. May NAP 3 plant sincere justice for Nigerian women. I am confident that the work we do today would ensure we hand over to our children a banner without stain. NAP 3 is born a week shy of Christmas 2025 - It's our Christmas gift to Nigerian women.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu (First Lady Represented by Wife of Deputy Senate President - Hajiya Laila Barau-Jibrin): I bring you greetings from the First Lady. A lot of work in the line of the implementation of NAP 3 is already being done via the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), Chaired by the First Lady. I call on all State Governments to key into NAP 3. I hereby launch NAP 3...

My comment: There you have it, the 3rd NAP is successfully launched! I look forward to the painstaking implementation of the tenets of the programme at the National, State and Local Government levels...

   

 

BEIJING+30: LOOKING BACK & MARCHING FORWARD

 The title of this Blog post was the theme of the Women's Summit organised by AMANDLA Institute for Policy & Leadership Advancement in collaboration with African Women Leadership Network (AWLN) and WOMANIFESTO. The Summit was held on 9th December 2025 at Lake Greenfield Hotel & Towers, Abuja. The Summit was supported by Ford Foundation. The event was also an opportunity to continue the celebration of 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). The participants were an inter-generational mix: The older ones were at the Beijing Conference in 1995 and the younger activists in the hall...At 67 years old, I (Dr. Dayo Oluyemi-Kusa) was one of the elders in the room that actually attended the Beijing Conference in 1995 when I was Head of Department of Political Science, Lagos State University (LASU).

Erelu Bisi Adeleye Fayemi (Co-Founder AMANDALA Institute & Fmr. First Lady Ekiti state) welcomed us: The Beijing Plan of Action (BPA) was perhaps the first global forum that addressed gender issues. It appears we have gone five steps forward and ten steps backwards. Nigeria's indices are so bad that we may not meet the SDGs goals by 2030. But there's some good news. We may not be where we wish to be, but we have not remained where we were. For example, there's more access to educational opportunities in Southern Nigeria. There are more women in academia and public service. We now have an endless list of role models and indeed, mentors. We also have formidable women organisations and networks. AMANDLA began operation in February 2025. Remember that there's no such thing as a retired feminist because the forces of regression are never tired. We need to remain vigilant...

                                                              The Brochure for the event

Prof. Funmi Para-Mallam (Chair AWLN-Nigeria) asked three critical questions: Where are we? Where do we want to be? How do we get there? There's still deeply entrenched resistance within the system, but we are rising. Female public office holders, academics, etc. are confronted by institutional walls - outdated cultural norms, religious mis-interpretation, violence normalised and sometimes treated as routine. We are at the crossroad of progress and pushback. If the resistance is getting louder, it means the impact is getting stronger. We want a country where women are protected in practice and not on paper. Cultural norms should reflect our collective humanity. We have the African Leadership Institute (WLI), where mentees are trained. We need more effective strategies and collective power. Networks should not collapse under pressure. Nigeria does not need scattered activism. We must own our own narrative. We must challenge harmful norms and mentor intentionally. We should support female candidates in spite of political affiliation. We must refuse to be intimidated. Women's leadership should be a national asset..

L-R: Prof. Para-Mallam (Chair, AWLN-Nigeria); Ms. ...(Deputy British High Commissioner); Ms. Ene Ede (Gender Activist) & Dr. Dayo Oluyemi-Kusa

Dr. Abiola Akiyode (Co-Convener, Womanifesto): We'll continue to stand on the foundation laid by you all. We are not re-inventing the wheel, we are consolidating. We have some gains like the Child Rights Act (CRA), Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act, etc. I was a Youth Corper in 1995, and I didn't have enough money to go to Beijing. The Beijing Conference was not just a parley, it was a lighthouse that produced a blueprint - The Beijing Platform for Action (BPA)...

     L-R: Prof. Funmilayo Para-Mallam (Chair AWLN-Nigeria) & Dr. Dayo Oluyemi-Kusa

Prof. Olufolake Abdulrasaq (Chair, Nigeria Governors' Spouses Forum - NGSF & First Lady Kwara State): For sustainable leadership, there should be quality participation and inclusion. Legislated gender quotas are a response to lacunas in necessary interventions that favour women. We'll share lessons learned here at the NGSF. While prioritising the inclusion and education of the girl child, don't leave the boy child behind. Economic empowerment of women is of utmost importance. The HPV vaccine should be administered to girls between the ages of 9 and 14 years. Inter-generational exchanged as witnessed at this Summit should be continuous. Kwara state has passed the 35% Affirmative Action and 6 month maternity leave. Menstrual period poverty is also being addressed...

Hon. Iman Suleiman (Minister of Women Affairs): I'm an accidental leader. It's women o'clock. Women should organise themselves. 98% of Chinese women are economically empowered. I'm a victim of SGBV even as Minister of Women Affairs. My subordinates in the office bullied me, saying they wanted a 'more dynamic leadership'...Women have made significant gains. 8-10 MDs of Banks in Nigeria are women. The Ministry of Women Affairs has 5 Pillars which include, but are not limited to Family, Child, Women empowerment, etc. Only about 4% of women can access finance. This needs to be addressed. We need more gender-responsive laws. We should dismantle harmful stereotypes and support survivors of SGBV. When women rise, communities thrive...

Dr. Dayo Oluyemi-Kusa in her element, all in the spirit of 16 Days of Activism Against GBV - decked in orangae sunglasses, top & shoes... 

Ms. Wunmi Akinronke (ED WIMBIZ): Achieving Gender Equality might take us another century. We need to accelerate action. How? This can be achieved via knowledge transfer - there's no need to re-invent the wheel. We should also collaborate and stop working in silos...

Dr. Chi-Chi Aniagolu-Okoye (Country Director, Ford Foundation): It's indeed an honour to celebrate 30 years post Beijing. Mme. Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi is not an accidental leader! Thanks for setting up AMANDLA Institute as Co-Founder with your husband, Dr. Kayode Fayemi (Former Governor of Ekiti State/Federal Minister)...

Prof. Olabisi Aina (Keynote Speaker): Moving forward, we need the following: 1) Inter-generational solidarity 2) Embrace the feminist approach 3) Youth-led feminism - digital, intersectional and bold 4) Inclusive policies and compassion 5) Women who have an understanding of the issues 6) Feminist governance vs Traditional governance 7) Internal issues - shared leadership, accountability and understanding of the theory of change 8) Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of our 'Movements' - NCWS, End Sars, BBOG, etc. 9) Donor-dependent funding vs Solidarity via home-grown funding 10) Opportunities - Digital tools, Understanding the global gender agenda 11) Intrsectional practice 

What then are the 7 pillars of action, going forward? 1) Strengthen governance via accountability, Gender-responsive budgeting, etc. 2) Mentorship & Inter-generational leadership - Set up Leadership Academies 3) Feminist Data Governance 4) Feminist knowledge/research, including Oral History 5) Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) 6) Private Sector involvement 7) Feminists + Activists + Donors should work together...

Ms. Gill Lever OBE (Deputy British High Commissioner): I assure you of the solidarity of women in the UK with Nigerian women. We continue to celebrate progress since 1995. The Beijing conference was a comprehensive blueprint for gender equality and empowerment. We shall continue to support grassroots women's organisations. Despite gains, there are persistent gaps in the VAPP, CRA, Land Use Act, etc. Women entrepreneurs and feminist movements need constant encouragement. Leadership and mentorship should not be aspirational for women, but guaranteed...

Panel 1: Recalling Beijing 1995 (Looking Back)

Panelists: Chief Moji Makanjuola (ED ISMPH); Iyom Barr. Josephine Anenih (Former Minister of Wmen Affairs); Dr. Mairo Mandara (Special Adviser to Borno State Governor); Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa (DG Diaspora Commission); Ms. Toun Okewale-Sonaiya (Moderator/CEO Women Radio)

Chief Moji Makanjuola: Many of us are not 'accidental leaders'. Mentorship is key. What do we need to focus on and what do we need to achieve? How have you used your platform to advance the gender agenda? In the traditional media, some stereotypes have been conquered. We need more female owners of media houses. There should be more female decision makers in the media and other spheres of life. Women in politics should make themselves available for interviews in the traditional media at least. This is where their male counterparts have an edge.

Dr. Mairo Mandara: Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and Vesico Vaginal Fistula (VVF) are as a result of social injustice.  have enough policies, we need to implement the extant ones. We must walk the talk. Let's be more deliberate with action. We need to harvest the low-hanging fruits. We need seats at critical fora. We should show interest in Political Party Conventions. We should have influence in our various niches and understand the language of money. It's necessary to be strategic, deliberate and influential to be able to determine the next set of political leaders. If you have no business of your own, you have no business in being in politics. We should note that at least 8 out of every 10 grassroots women have their PVCs.

Iyom Barr. Josephine Anenih: What are women not doing well? If you are not at the table, you're likely to be on the menu. There are 5 long years between the era of Madam Gambo Sawaba and Iyom Barr. Josephine Anenih in politics. But the barriers against women persist. More money shuld be pumped into the Care Industry. Unpaid labour needs proper recognition. 

Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa: Power is not served a-la-carte. My first line of support in my constituency were the women. It's tougher for us in the political terrain than the men. We should mentor the younger ones - systemic mentoring. We should be courageous and determined. Prebendalism (Money Politics) remains a big issue. You need money in the political terrain. 

Panel 2: Intergenerational Dialogue

Panelists: Abosede George-Ogan (ED WILAN); Priscilla Usiobaifo (ED Brave Heart Initiative - BHI); Fatima Yerima Askira (Borno Women Development Initiative - BWDI); Cynthia Mbamalu (Head of Programmes, Yiaga Africa); Bukky Shonibare (Moderator/ED Invictus Africa) 

We should build institutions and structures. Translate numbers into power. Greater investment in women. There should be institutionalised feminist principles. Documentaion and digital innovation are key. The nexus between practitioners and scholars should be bridged - Town should meet Gown. The central SGBV Dashboard should be linked to all other Dashboards in the country. Inter-generational learning and collaboration should be continuous. We should join new networks and refine those that we have. There should be solidarity among sisters across board.

Prof. Joy Ezeilo (Call to Action)

All the critical areas of concern are still relevant in Nigeria. Nigerian women should continue to work in concert...1) Invest in women and girls 2) Women's leadership and representation should be stepped up 3) The Reserved Seats Bill should be seen to its logical conclusion 4) Knowledge production and transfer 5) Research and data collection 6) Gender budgeting 7) The 3rd National Action Plan (NAP) on UNSCR 1325 should be executed with precision 8) Implementation of extant Laws - CRA, VAPP, 3rd NAP on UNSCR 1325 9) Enact the Gender & Equal Opportunities Bill 10) Domestication of all Treaties, especially CEDAW 11) Operationalise a Feminist Strategy 12) Mentorship and Inter-generational cooperation 

Pelemo the Poet performed Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi's poem 'The Heaven for Little Girls'

I told mummy that daddy was hurting me

She said Shhhhhhhhhh

Hush Girl

Don't let anyone hear you

How dare you?

She called me a liar

She called me a prostitute

Then all of a sudden

It did not hurt anymore...

What an apt poem by multi-talented Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi to commemorate the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). It was professionally performed by a relatively young female Poet, Pelemo...This is the kind of inter-generational collaboration we were deliberating on at the Summit.

Ms. Joke Silva (Veteran Actress/Member Programmes Committee, Amandla Institute) gave what was more than a mere vote of thanks, it could pass for another charge for the participants. Trust Joke not to disappoint..

It's really nice to witness the collaboration between women-focused institutions/NGOs for this Summit - AMANDLA Institute, WOMANIFESTO & AWLN (African Women Leaders' Network). We need more of this kind of synergy. We must agonise less and strategise more. We can do it. We have the energy. And now, we move...

I, Dr. Dayo Oluyemi-Kusa), must commend AMANDLA Institute, a young organisation which became fully operational in February 2025 for organising this professionally coordinatd Summit in successful collaboration with two other formidable NGOs. This is indeed a feat. Kudos and more wins. Bravo!

                 

  

.

ilo

 

NIGERIA POLICE WOMEN AT 70

 Between the 4th and 5th of December 2025, the Nigeria Police celebrated Nigeria Police women at 70 (1955 - 2025) with theme: '70 years of courage & service: Honouring women in policing, inspiring the future'. The events were supported by UNDP, GS-Foundation, Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany - Abuja and Zenith Bank.

L-R: Dr. Dayo Oluyemi-Kusa & CSP Omone Adams celebrating Nigeria Police Women @ 70

AIG Aishatu Abubakar Baju (Gender advisor to the IGP) welcomed us: Empowered women empower institutions and empowered institutions transform nations. Once, the aspirations of women in the Force encountered structural ceilings. Today, those ceilings no longer exist. The Nigeria Police Force has evolved into a modern security institution where ability, not gender, defines alignment and advancement. This ia our shared victory...This anniversary is not just a marking of years, it's an anthem of progress, a testament to institutional matamorphosis, and proof that vision coupled with tenacity re-shapes barriers. From modest beginnings in 1955, when women served as tea girls, communicators, caregivers, traffic guides and school protection officers, to today, where policewomen stand shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts in core intelligence, tactical, investigative, operational and command leadership positions...Women now wear ranks of CPs, AIGs and DIGs. What we celebrate today is not just advancement in rank, but advancement in relevance...Today, the IGP will unveil three generational assets led by the Gender Unit: *Women Police 70-year Lapel Pin *Police GBV Training Manual *Standard Operating Procedure (SoP) on GBV. These documents symbolise policy, protection and professionalism, further strengthening the Force's response to crimes against women and vulnerable persons...(Source: Programme brochure for Nigeria Police Women @ 70)

The event on the 5th of December 2025 had some goodwill messages:

Mrs. Amina Mohammed (UN Deputy Secretary-General) gave her message on line: May the next 70 years be defined by more inclusion and a Police service that keeps improving.

Dame Stella Okuyiga (96 year old member of first set of female recruits into the Police in 1955) gave her message on line. I thank the current AIG for including us in the programme. You shall continue to soar...

Chairman House of Representatives Committee on Police Affairs represented by Wole Ahmed: I bring you good tidings from my Chairman. I wish you another 70 years of progress.

CP Shanta Emily Knowles (Bahamas Chief of Police) - Keynote Speaker: I made a decision at the age of 15 to join the Police in the Bahamas, when women in policing was not fashionable. Policing is at its best when empathy meets courage. I was the first female to lead the Criminal Investigation Department. When you walk into a room, even minds made of steel would melt because of your carriage. Leadership entails courage. No dream is too distant for any woman. Greatness begins quietly with small steps. Reaching the top was not a straight line for me. I stand today as proof that progress and indeed greatness do not happen overnight. The glass ceiling was shattered by me in the Bahamas. Your journey may be different from mine, but the possibilities are real. Policing is not defined by gender, but by skills, courage and commitment, community engagement, etc. I encourage all women in the Nigeria Police to learn from my story and be rest assured that the sky is just the beginning...

IGP Kayode Egbetokun: I appointed the very first Gender Advisor. I am the 22nd indigenous IGP in Nigeria. The goal is to have women constitute up to 50% of the Nigeria Police. Today, we pay tribute to the women who stepped up. Though the door was open, the pathway up was narrow for women. The first set of women had no blueprint. Today, we stand taller because they stood firm. Today, we have women UN Peace-keepers, Forensic Analysts, Intelligence Officers, Sexual & Gender-Based Violence Analysts, ICT Experts, etc. They are mothers, wives and eceptional Police Officers. Excellence wears many faces and women are undeniably one. An example is Chioma Ajunwa, who in 1996, brought home the Sprint Gold Medal from the Olympics. The services of women in the Nigeria Police raise the bar. Women bring disciline to every assignment. Women have moved to mainstream leadership in the Nigeria Police. Women are present, innovative and professional. Under my leadership, we shall continue to advance. The Nigeria Police is proud of its women. We are inspired by your service. Women are indeed the architects of the policing we envision. Women are not a footnote, you're essential to the NPF...Gender Equality is not aspirational, but a lived reality. I thank the President for his commitment to empowering women in Nigeria...

Senator Oluremi Tinubu (First Lady, Federal Republic of Nigeria): I particularly enjoyed the Keynote Speaker's speech and I would like to have a copy. I'm proud of how far women have come in the Nigeria Police. I'm confident that the next 70 years would record more wins for my gender...

The celebration was indeed glorious for women in the NPF. I raise my glass to another 70 years of distinction for Nigeria Police women. Bravo!

 

NIGERIA GOVERNORS SPOUSES' FORUM (NGSF): A VIABLE PLATFORM FOR POSITIVE CHANGE

 The sixth edition of the annual Summit of the Nigeria Governors Spouses' Forum (NGSF) was held at the Congress Hall, Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja on the 4th of December 2025. I have watched the Forum grow from inception, six years ago till this year. The theme for this year alligns with the global theme for the 2026 edition of 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence (GBV) - United for Change: Men & Women Ending Digital Violence Together. 

Programme for the 6th edition of Nigeria Governors' Spouses Forum held on the 4th of December 2025 @ Congress Hall, Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja

         Ambassador (Prof) Olufolake Abdulrasaq (Chairperson NGSF) & First Lady Kwara State

Ambassador (Prof) Olufolake Abdulrasaq: In her opening remarks, the Chair of NGSF and First Lady Ekiti state, traced the journey of the Forum in the last six years...Over the past six years, the NGSF has remained steadfast in its commitment to advancing the rights, wellbeing and protection of women, children and girls across Nigeria. This has been achieved through sustained advocacy, strategic  engagements and strong partnerships. We have continued to strengthen national and sub-national responses to Sexual & Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), deepen awaareness and reinforce the systems that safeguard vulnerable populations. 

Our collective effort since the declaration of the state of emergency on SGBV in 2020 has laid a strong foundation for measurable progress. From supporting the passage of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act, expanding Sexual Assault Reference Centres (SARCs), promoting economic empowerment, championing menstrual hygiene, advocacy on six months paid maternity leave, sustained campaigns on immunisation , advocacy on women's representation, supporting drug abuse prevention and cancer awareness to enhancing state-level GBV coordination mechanisms, the Forum has continued to provide leadership that delivers tangible results.

Between 2021 and 2023, we affirmed our resolve to transform norms by strengthening laws which have mobilised all actors towards building a safer and more gender-equitable Nigeria. This conference provides yet another opportunity for reflection, evaluation and advancement in our work...

Some of the Speakers at the Summit are:

*Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq (Represented by Governor of Plateau state, Caleb Mutfwang) - Chairman, Nigeria Governors' Forum/Governor Kwara state

*Hon Imman Suleiman-Ibrahim - Minister of Women Affairs & Social Development

*Amb. Prof. Olufolake Abdulrasaq - First Lady Kwara state/Chairperson NGSF

*Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) - Attorney-General & Minister of Justice

*Ms. Gill Lever (OBE) - Deputy British High Commissioner to Nigeria/Acting British High Commissioner

*Dr. Chi-Chi Aniagolu Okoye - Country Director, Ford Foundation

*Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji - First Lady Ekiti state

*Hajiya Fatima Ahmed Aiyu - First Lady Sokoto state

*Hajiya Hafsat Kollere Buni - First Lady Yobe state

*Associate Prof. Falmata Babagana Umara Zulum - First Lady Borno state

*Lady Helen Eno Obareki - First Lady Designate & Coodinator, Office of the 1st Lady, Akwa Ibom state

*Waje - Singer, Humanitarian & Advocate

*Chief (Mrs) Moji Makanjuola (OFR) - Master of Ceremony

*Chief (Mrs) Titilola Adeleke - First Lady Osun state

*Dr. Ero Ibhafidon - President/CEO Waterlight Industries

*Dr Audu Alayande - Health Specialist, UNFPA

*Lady Anne Welsh - Founder, Painless Universal 

Lateef Fagbemi (SAN): Attorney-General & Minister of Justice. The theme is timely because non-consensual sharing of sexual images and other on-line crimes are unacceptable. It could result in mental heath issues in the victims. There are still gaps in legislation we need to address and re-visit: The Cybercrime Prohibition Act; proposed Amendment of the VAPP Act; etc. The Federal Ministry of Justice has a viable Gender Desk which is currently addressing/reviewing referral pathways and training of Prosecutors. We need to continually push for legal reforms. There should be greater collaboration with Law Enforcement Agents. We need more inclusive approaches and shared responsibility. There should be experince-sharing among parents, educators and CSOs on SGBV issues. Digital literacy education is vital. The NGSF is a viable additional platform for ensuring accountability in cyberspace. We can build a Nigeria where technology enhances and not harm the citizens...

Imman Suleiman-Ibrahim: Mnister of Women Affairs & Social Development talked about the significance of the colour orange, which signifies the protection of victims of SGBV. It's 30 years post Beijing, 30 years since the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs was established and 25 years since UNSCR 1325. We have a number of projects in the Ministry which are relevant to the subject at hand: Renewed Hope Social Impact Intervention; Digital Harmony Project; etc. We are targeting 4.5 million women with these projects. The Gender Policy needs to be referred to by all practitioners and academics/researchers and policy makers.

Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq (Rep. by Caleb Mutwang, Governor of Plateau state): Governors shall continue to support their spouses to make societal impact. We champion safer and more equitable communities. Technology could facilitate violence of immense proportions. NGF will continue to work with state governments to provide safe digital platforms. Ending Digital Violence is not just an obligation, it's central to the dignity of the human spirit. We believe in the Special Seats Bill. The Governors will mobilise their constituents in the National Assembly to vote in favour of the Bill.

Two critical panel sessions followed

Panel 1: Safeguarding her digital space - Policies & platforms for protection

Panel 2: Brothers for change: Engaging men as allies in ending digital violence

First Ladies deliberated on this and recommended thus:

-There should be partnerships and interventions to protect women in cyberspace.

-The First Lady's office could be a hub for innovative ideas which could be turned into policies for the protection of the vulnerable. First Ladies have the strongest platform to fight SGBV.

-There should be many responding channels to SGBV issues, which should be coordinated.

-Hot lines for reporting cases of SGBV should be provided.

-States should liaise with their local tech companies for citizens' education as regards SGBV

-There should be parents/guardians guide as well as minors' guide.

-IEC (Information, Education & Communication) materials should be provided

-A re-orientation drive should be embarked upon to address 'diseases of the mind', e.g. depraved individuals. Youth fora, Churches and Mosques could be useful here - Behavioral change advocates

-Regulations should be enforced.

-Tech companies should input safety features in all their products

-Violence on-line is usually worse towards elections. The noose should be tightened around perpetrators at such times. Political Parties and indeed politicians should be sensitised.

-We should be coversant with the Cybercrime Act, etc

-Positive masculinity ensures that men protect women in their spaces

-Re-orientation of men and boys to have more positive image of women

The side attraction was locally made items of standard quality from the various states (clothes, shoes, hand fans, bags, etc) were on display for sale. This is probably an un-intended benefit for aspiring entrepreneurs to showcase their products/talent. This is economic empowerment in practice! The conference reiterated the fact that male allies/champions are critical to the task of ending digital violence and the First Ladies' offices are crucial for driving positive change as regards all forms of violence aginst women. The discussion continues...