Biodun Esan, Ilorin
Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has described women as critical stakeholders in the country’s quest for sustainable development.
Governor AbdulRazaq of Kwara State said this in a statement on Saturday to celebrate Nigerian women on International Women’s Day.
“On this International Women’s Day 2025, I celebrate women in Kwara State and across the world for their resilience, creativity, and the joy that they bring to every space they occupy.
“Women are critical stakeholders in our society and our quest for sustainable development. They play important roles in development, social cohesion, and progress.
“Our administration recognises this, and we have continued to promote initiatives, policies, and legislations that protect the rights of women and offer equitable opportunities,” AbdulRazaq said.
According to the NGF Chairman, the theme of this year’s celebration is: “Accelerate Action”, adding; “I believe we have measured up to this in Kwara — and will do more.
He said Kwara made history with the female majority cabinet in 2019, and now has a pathfinder law that guarantees at least 35 per cent affirmative action for every government appointment.
“We also enacted the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law, ensuring a safer environment for our girls and women and every other person.
“We have, among other things, keyed into the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) programme to get more girls enrolled in school and make their learning journey an exciting experience.
“On this special day, I recommit myself to empowering our women and creating more opportunities for them to thrive. Happy International Women’s Day,” he added.
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