At the 69th edition of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City, Nigeria has emerged as a key player, showcasing its commitment to women’s empowerment through its Ministry of Women Affairs to project the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Under the leadership of Honourable Minister Mrs. Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, Nigeria is actively participating in discussions and initiatives that reflect the country’s dedication to advancing gender equality and women’s rights globally.
One of the highlights of Nigeria’s involvement is a noteworthy side event and exhibition held at 583 Park Avenue, themed “Nigerian Women’s Day: 30 Years of Progress, Resilience, Impact, and Renewed Hope.” This event commemorates the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and its action plan, which serves as the cornerstone for this year’s CSW discussions. This gathering not only celebrates past achievements but also focuses on the persistent challenges and renewed commitments needed to continue this vital work.
During a compelling panel session titled “Dream Without Limits: Women in Leadership,” moderated by Toun Okewale Sonaiya, a group of distinguished speakers took to the stage. These included prominent figures such as Mrs Didi Esther Walson, Head of the Civil Service of Nigeria; Erelu Bisi Fayemi, the former First Lady of Ekiti State; Dr Mary Alile, National Women Leader of the All Progressives Congress; Ambassador Kemafo Chikwe, Former Minister for Aviation; Engineer Jennifer Adighije, Managing Director/CEO of Niger Delta Power Holding and The Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) Dr Adebowale Adedokun. In his remarks, Dr Adedokun through the session provided a platform to discuss critical insights into women’s leadership roles and the systemic barriers that often limit their advancement.
Dr Adebowale Adedokun highlighted the urgent need for more women to break through the persistent glass ceilings that hinder their professional growth in line with the current administration’s renewed hope agenda which gives more room for women to soar higher and also helps them assume their role as nation and home builders. He stressed that overcoming these barriers necessitates not only ambition but also actionable strategies, robust mentorship programs, and substantial systemic support. Dr Adedokun underscored the importance of visible, accomplished women across various fields serving as inspirational role models, encouraging the next generation to aspire to leadership positions with confidence.
In his remarks, Dr Adedokun reaffirmed the Bureau of Public Procurement’s (BPP) commitment to cultivating an environment that supports women’s advancement within government procurement processes. He unveiled plans to relax certain eligibility criteria, aiming to empower women in the public sector by ensuring they are presented with equitable opportunities to thrive and assume leadership roles as key contributors to the nation’s development. “To realize our goals in line with Mr President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, we will partner with the Ministry of Women Affairs, the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency, and the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment among others via an advocacy where we will allow women to participate in some level of procurement exercise,” he stated, highlighting the collaborative approach necessary to foster women’s involvement in procurement will ensure a level free playing ground.
Dr. Adedokun placed a strong emphasis on the need for competency to be the primary criterion for women participating in procurement activities. He asserted that enhancing the procurement landscape is essential for achieving equity, justice, and fairness. This, he believes, will culminate in high-quality deliverables for approved projects. He asserted, “Any woman involved in procurement exercises must possess the requisite legal competencies.” This statement reflects his commitment to ensuring professionalism within the sector.
Additionally, Dr Adedokun expressed a desire to transform societal perceptions regarding women in leadership and procurement, advocating for a culture where women do not have to fight for recognition or emphasize their gender to gain equitable treatment. He concluded, “Under my leadership, we will change that narrative for good, empowering women and providing them with a decisive advantage to compete effectively in all procurement opportunities within our sector.”
Through these focused initiatives, the BPP, under Dr Adedokun’s leadership, is dedicated to forging a pathway to greater inclusion and empowerment for women in Nigeria, not only in procurement but across all levels of public life, thereby contributing to a more balanced and equitable society.
