The Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has unveiled the National Council for Women Societies, NCWS, Blueprint, marking a significant milestone in the country’s push for gender equality.
The event also celebrated the first 100 days in office of the NCWS President, Princess Edna Azura.
Addressing the gathering of dignitaries, development partners, and civil society leaders, the Minister expressed her pride and joy in being part of the event, underscoring the importance of the Blueprint as a comprehensive plan to promote women’s rights and leadership across Nigeria.
“It is with immense pride, deep joy, and a profound sense of duty that I stand before you today at this historic occasion,” the Minister said. “Today, we celebrate vision backed by strategy. We celebrate leadership that listens, acts, and delivers.”
Hon. Sulaiman-Ibrahim praised Princess Azura for her transformative leadership in her first 100 days. “Princess Azura, congratulations. Your first 100 days have reignited the flame of possibility for women’s organizing and national influence. Your work is only just beginning and we are all behind you,” she stated, acknowledging the efforts made toward empowering Nigerian women.
Reflecting on the first 100 days of Princess Azura’s leadership, the NCWS National President herself shared her gratitude for the support that has propelled the organization’s mission. In her speech, Princess Azura expressed deep appreciation for the ongoing partnerships and leadership of key stakeholders, particularly Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the First Lady of Nigeria and Grand Matron of NCWS.
“As we reflect on the first 100 days in office, our hearts overflow with gratitude – first to Almighty God, and then to every partner, friend, and stakeholder who has journeyed with us in this mission of transformation,” said Princess Azura. She highlighted the significant support from the First Lady’s initiatives, which include economic empowerment and relief efforts aimed at uplifting Nigerian women. “Her Excellency has distributed 60,000 professional kits to midwives and empowered 37,000 women petty traders with capital to grow their businesses. These efforts have brought hope and dignity to thousands.”
Princess Azura also spoke about NCWS’s achievements in her first 100 days. Among the key initiatives were the launch of anti-GBV campaigns, partnerships with international bodies to support women-led businesses, and the organization of nationwide health and education advocacy programs. “We have empowered over 50 women with income-generating skills, partnered with INEC to address political violence against women, and have launched impactful mental health initiatives,” she said.
The NCWS President concluded her address by reaffirming the organization’s commitment to furthering women’s rights and empowerment, with plans to roll out training hubs and advocacy programs across the country. “Together, under the grace of God and the banner of unity, we are not just changing narratives — we are rewriting history,” Princess Azura remarked.
The celebration of these milestones marks a renewed dedication to women’s advancement in Nigeria, as the Ministry of Women Affairs, under the leadership of Hon. Sulaiman-Ibrahim, and the NCWS, led by Princess Azura, forge ahead in their mission to empower women across all sectors of society.
