Hannatu Musawa advocates for public-private partnerships to enhance gender equality at the 2025 International Women’s Day celebration, emphasizing the need for investment in women-led businesses. Leaders from NGX and government stress collaboration for improved access to capital and highlight initiatives to empower women economically as vital for societal growth.
Hannatu Musawa, Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, has underscored the significance of public-private partnerships in advancing gender equality. Speaking at the 2025 International Women’s Day celebration hosted by the Nigerian Exchange Ltd. (NGX) in Lagos, she highlighted the urgent need to address obstacles facing women and girls which hinder their potential. The theme for the event was “Accelerate Action for All Women: Rights, Equality, Empowerment.”
The Minister referenced a report by the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) indicating that women-owned businesses contribute $15 billion to Nigeria’s economy. However, she pointed out that women often face challenges in accessing capital for their businesses, thus emphasizing the need for collaboration between public and private sectors. She stated, “Building a gender-equal future requires collaboration between the public and private sectors.”
Musawa urged for concrete actions to bridge the gender gap, advocating for increased investments and funding opportunities specifically designed for women entrepreneurs. She also recognized the efforts of NGX in directing capital markets towards supporting woman-led businesses and gender initiatives.
Alhaji Umaru Kwairanga, Group Chairman of NGX Group, reiterates the necessity for bold and deliberate actions from both the private sector and government to achieve gender equality. He insists that empowering women enhances the economy’s inclusivity and vitality through initiatives aimed at facilitating women’s easy access to capital.
The NGX is committed to boosting female participation in the capital market. The group plans to achieve this via targeted educational programs and the establishment of mechanisms to track the gender impact of investments.
Mr. Temi Popoola, Group CEO of NGX Group, commended the significant contributions women have made to the organization while encouraging continuous support among them. Mr. Haruna Jalo-Waziri, MD of Central Securities Clearing Systems (CSCS), stressed the importance of male-female collaboration for a balanced society.
Dr. Emomotimi Agama, Director-General of the Security and Exchange Commission (SEC), honored women’s perseverance and urged men to respect and support women. Additionally, Ms. Chalya Shagaya, Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu, called for enhanced collaboration between NGX and the government to boost investments for women.
Franca Chukwugor, Executive Commissioner of SEC, urged women to pursue essential knowledge to secure their financial future and avoid illegal investments. Furthermore, Serah Ockman from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), advised women to prioritize their investments.
Lastly, Prof. Folashade Ogunshola, Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, urged women to overcome social barriers for greater societal impact and stressed the need for economic collaborations that allow women access to capital and grants. Hilda Baci, CEO of Food by Hilda, encouraged women to commit to continual learning and mutual support in their journey towards an equitable society.
The emphasis on public-private collaboration by leaders at the NGX and the government is seen as essential in fostering gender equality and empowering women in Nigeria. With concrete actions and a focused approach, the involvement of all societal sectors can promote accessibility to capital for women, recognize their contributions to the economy, and ensure their pivotal role in nation-building. The commitment to build a sustainable future for women through education, investment, and support stands as a crucial foundation for progress.
Original Source: nannews.ng
