Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has called on Bola Tinubu to prioritize improving Nigerians’ welfare as the nation faces severe economic challenges.
Speaking at the 2024 Women in Management, Business, and Public Service (WIMBIZ) conference, Osinbajo emphasized the urgent need for social welfare programs and accessible healthcare, noting that Nigerians are struggling with rising costs in essential areas such as food, transportation, and housing.
“The cost of living is overwhelming Nigerians’ hope for survival,” Osinbajo remarked. He emphasized the growing issue of food insecurity, particularly affecting children, and called for stronger support systems to ensure basic needs are met.
Addressing the literacy challenges in Nigeria, particularly in the northern region, Osinbajo pointed out that over 67% of women in northern Nigeria are illiterate. “A nation where half of the population is socially and economically marginalized due to illiteracy will struggle to achieve development,” he cautioned.
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To address this issue, he emphasized the importance of large-scale social interventions that tackle systemic barriers, including literacy and economic empowerment.
Reflecting on the conference theme, “Dream, Dare, Do,” Osinbajo commended WIMBIZ for its dedication to driving meaningful change. “It’s not just about having dreams or starting businesses—it’s about resilience and the courage to push through challenges,” he noted.
He also touched on the unique pressures Nigerian entrepreneurs face, often feeling compelled to project an image of success that surpasses their business’s actual financial standing. “Nigerian business owners face intense pressure to maintain an appearance of success that their businesses may not yet support,” he added.
Omowunmi Akingbohungbe, WIMBIZ Executive Director, also spoke, highlighting the challenges women encounter in leadership roles, including stereotypes and self-doubt. She shared that the conference theme was intended to inspire both women and men to pursue their ambitions with confidence.
“WIMBIZ is working to change the narrative on national impact by advocating for policies that include women in decision-making roles,” Akingbohungbe said. She noted that WIMBIZ continues to push for a minimum of 35% representation of women in leadership positions, a target she hopes will strengthen governance by bringing together the unique strengths of both genders.
Akingbohungbe highlighted Nigeria’s low 6% female representation in parliament, contrasting it with countries like Rwanda, Senegal, and South Africa, where women hold over 45% of parliamentary seats.
“This isn’t about pitting genders against each other; it’s about acknowledging the unique value both bring to leadership,” she emphasized.
The WIMBIZ conference reinforced the urgent need for inclusive policies, strong social welfare, and economic empowerment as essential foundations for Nigeria’s development.
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