Women’s Political Participation Gets Major Boost With Unveiling of “Empower Her Project”
The push for greater women’s inclusion in governance received a strong boost yesterday as Nigerian women turned out in large numbers for the unveiling of the “Empower Her Project,” an initiative championed by Hon. Tabitha Illiya, a board member of the South South Development Commission (SSDC).
Held on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at the National Women Development Centre, Abuja, the event drew an impressive list of dignitaries and women leaders committed to expanding female participation in national development. The Special Guest of Honour, Her Excellency Hajiya Nana Kashim Shettima, wife of the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, was ably represented by the Special Assistant to the President on Media & ICT, Office of the Vice President, Hon. Kwapchi Bata Hamman.
Other distinguished personalities in attendance included the Mother of the Day, Mrs Amina Elizabeth Yakowa, former First Lady of Kaduna State; Mrs Elizabeth Egbetokun, President of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA); Dame Pauline Kedem Tallen, former Minister of Women Affairs; Senator Binta Garba; and Dr Mathias Byuan, Executive Director (Finance), Federal Housing Authority.
The Managing Director of the South South Development Commission, Ms Usoro Akpabio, who served as the Chairlady of the event, delivered a compelling keynote address that underscored the strategic importance of women in governance. She stated that the Empower Her Project was built on the belief that empowering women strengthens families, communities, and the nation at large. According to her, providing women with education, skills, and opportunities is a powerful investment capable of driving economic growth, innovation, and social stability.
She described the initiative as a platform designed to open doors for women to harness their potential, build sustainable livelihoods, and take their rightful place in national leadership. She emphasised that women’s empowerment must be a continuous commitment and a shared responsibility. She concluded with a resonant charge: “Together, let us empower her, and by doing so, empower our nation.”
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The ceremony also featured the inauguration of the Northern Christian Women for Asiwaju, along with presentations from notable guest speakers who reiterated the need for stronger female representation in governance across all levels.
The unveiling of the Empower Her Project stands as a significant milestone in the broader movement to deepen women’s inclusion and leadership in Nigeria’s political landscape.
