Nigeria has celebrated its successful election to the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), with the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, urging greater unity, collaboration and economic empowerment to advance the welfare of women across the country.
Speaking at a reception in Abuja to honour Mrs. Esther Eghobamien Mshelia, Nigeria’s newly elected representative on the UN CEDAW Committee, the Minister described women’s economic empowerment as the foundation for national development and inclusive prosperity.
She encouraged Nigerian women to pursue financial independence, stressing that economic strength gives women greater opportunities and a stronger voice in society.
The Minister also called on stakeholders in the women’s development sector to embrace partnership instead of rivalry, noting that sustainable progress can only be achieved through teamwork, innovation and shared responsibility.
She further challenged public servants and development partners to remain committed to excellence, integrity and service, adding that lasting prosperity is built on honesty, hard work and responsible leadership.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye, described Nigeria’s election to the CEDAW Committee as a significant diplomatic achievement made possible through strategic collaboration and effective leadership.
She said the successful campaign at the United Nations reflected Nigeria’s growing influence in global affairs and demonstrated what could be achieved through teamwork and coordinated national efforts.
Mrs. Asanye also praised the Ministry’s efforts to promote the Care Economy as a strategic sector capable of creating jobs, generating economic growth and improving the livelihoods of women nationwide.
Expressing gratitude, Mrs. Esther Eghobamien Mshelia thanked the Federal Government and the Ministry for their support throughout the election process. She said Nigeria continues to enjoy international respect for its commitment to gender equality and pledged to work closely with relevant stakeholders to strengthen the implementation of CEDAW obligations and advance policies that protect the rights of women and girls.
Also speaking, President of the National Council of Women’s Societies (NCWS), Princess Edna D. D. Azura, congratulated Mrs. Mshelia on her election and reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to supporting government programmes aimed at empowering women.
Veteran journalist and gender advocate, Mrs. Moji Makanjuola, called on Nigerian women to support one another through genuine collaboration, stressing that unity remains essential for building strong institutions and achieving sustainable national development.
The event ended with renewed commitments from government officials, civil society organisations, women’s groups and development partners to strengthen partnerships, expand economic opportunities for women and enhance Nigeria’s leadership in promoting gender equality on the global stage.
