Prominent women leaders, entrepreneurs, politicians and advocates for social inclusion converged in Abuja on Thursday for the official launch of the Business Women of Influence for the Renewed Hope Agenda (BWI-RHA), a platform aimed at promoting women’s empowerment, entrepreneurship, leadership and national development.
The event, themed “Together We Are Driving a New Hope,” attracted notable personalities from across the country, including the organization’s Matron, Chief Dr. Mrs. Bintu-Fatima Tinubu, the Yalode of Lagos; former First Lady of Kano State, Mrs. Fatima Shekarau; representatives of the Presidency; women leaders and political stakeholders.
Speaking at the launch, the Founder and Convener of BWI-RHA, Dr. Mrs. Ngozi Oyewole, FITD, described the initiative as a transformative movement designed to equip women with the tools, opportunities and networks required to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s development.
She explained that the organization would focus on mentorship, leadership development, business support, skills acquisition and strategic partnerships for women across the country.
According to her, the platform will champion women-owned enterprises, encourage innovation and entrepreneurship, promote greater participation of women in governance and leadership, and advocate policies that enhance the welfare of women, children and vulnerable groups.
“Women are not just beneficiaries of development; they are critical drivers of progress and nation-building,” she stated.
Dr. Oyewole also reaffirmed the organization’s support for the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing optimism that ongoing reforms would stimulate economic growth and create opportunities for citizens.
She further commended Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her commitment to women’s advancement through the Renewed Hope Initiative.
In her remarks, Chief Dr. Mrs. Bintu-Fatima Tinubu described the launch as a significant milestone in the collective effort to empower women, strengthen businesses and promote family and community development.
She praised the founder and members of the organization for uniting accomplished women from diverse sectors to pursue a common vision of national progress.
According to her, women occupy a strategic position in society and must be actively involved in shaping the nation’s future.
“Women are builders of homes, communities and economies. When women thrive, families prosper, communities become stronger and nations achieve sustainable development,” she said.
The Yalode of Lagos paid tribute to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing him as a visionary leader committed to repositioning Nigeria for growth and prosperity. She also applauded Senator Oluremi Tinubu for her longstanding contributions to women, youth and national development.
Chief Tinubu urged members of the platform to move beyond celebrations and become active partners in nation-building, peacebuilding and economic development.
She particularly highlighted the need to extend opportunities to women at the grassroots, stressing that women in rural communities should not be left behind in development efforts.
“Our mission must be to connect opportunities to every woman, irrespective of her location or background,” she said.
She pledged her continued support for the organization and encouraged members to remain committed to its vision and objectives.
Also speaking, representatives of the National Council of Women’s Societies (NCWS) commended the establishment of BWI-RHA, describing it as a positive step toward advancing the interests of women across Nigeria.
The council reiterated its call for increased female participation in governance, noting that women’s representation in elective positions remains significantly low.
It urged women to support one another, strengthen family values and continue contributing to national peace and development.
A former member of the National Assembly and leader of the APC Female Aspirants Network also called for greater inclusion of women in politics and leadership.
She praised women who have contested elections across the country for their resilience and determination, emphasizing that women possess the capacity to excel in leadership and administration.
According to her, women must continue to organize, build networks and pursue leadership opportunities to increase their presence in decision-making positions.
The event also featured a presentation on inclusion and special needs participation delivered on behalf of the Presidency.
The speaker emphasized the importance of creating an inclusive society where women, including persons with disabilities, can participate fully in governance, business and economic development.
He advocated stronger inclusion policies and improved support systems for women with disabilities, noting that many continue to excel in agriculture, technology, business and other sectors when provided with enabling opportunities.
Participants unanimously agreed that women’s economic empowerment, political inclusion and entrepreneurial development remain vital to Nigeria’s growth and prosperity.
They pledged continued support for initiatives that promote leadership, innovation, inclusion and sustainable national development.
The event featured prayers for peace, unity and progress in Nigeria, as participants expressed confidence in the growing role of women in shaping the country’s future.
