The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has taken a groundbreaking step in advancing women’s empowerment and gender equality by launching the inaugural Community of Practice (COP) for Commissioners of Women Affairs across Nigeria. This initiative signals a renewed national commitment to inclusive governance and the prioritisation of women and girls’ welfare.
NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, expressed enthusiasm about the historic occasion: “It is my pleasure to extend greetings from the Nigeria Governors’ Forum as we gather for this significant occasion.” He described the COP inauguration as “a remarkable milestone in Nigeria’s commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls.”
According to a statement issued by the Director, Media and Strategic Communications, Tanko Abdullahi, at the launch event, AbdulRazaq underscored the collective effort embedded in the new platform, highlighting its role in uniting Commissioners of Women Affairs from all states to share expertise and pursue a joint vision for gender-inclusive progress. “Today we unite to further the cause of gender equality and reinforce the institutional frameworks that support women’s empowerment throughout Nigeria,” he stated.
Among the key announcements, the NGF Chairman revealed the creation of a dedicated Gender Affairs Department within the Forum, alongside unveiling a new strategic plan — the Gender Equality and Women’s Economic Empowerment Strategic Plan 2025 to 2029. Aligned with national policies and the Sustainable Development Goals, this plan seeks to mainstream gender perspectives into governance, budgeting, and legal reforms.
He proudly noted the expansion of the Nigeria for Women Programme — a flagship initiative integrated into state planning, now operating in 31 states following successes in initial pilot states. “The adoption of the Women’s Economic Empowerment Policy at the state level continues to gain momentum,” he added, citing Kaduna, Kwara, and Lagos as frontrunners.
Characterising the COP as a dynamic vehicle for nationwide change, AbdulRazaq explained: “This new collaborative platform is designed to empower Commissioners, gender advocates, and technical experts to join forces in addressing challenges, sharing best practices, and driving accelerated actions for women’s rights.”
He reaffirmed the NGF’s unwavering dedication: “We will continue to break down barriers and foster enduring change for every woman and girl across Nigeria. The Nigeria Governors’ Forum remains steadfast in its commitment that no woman or girl will be left behind.” His optimistic closing words set the tone for the journey ahead: “Together, we will shape the next chapter of Nigeria’s journey toward gender equality. Thank you, and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
The Director-General of the NGF, Abdulateef Shittu, officially opened the platform with a strong commitment to gender equity as a development driver: “Sustainable development is impossible when half of the population is left behind, and empowering women creates a multiplier effect that strengthens households, communities, and state economies.” Stressing collaboration, he added: “States are doing incredible work, but exchanging lessons, aligning strategies, and building a unified voice will accelerate the impact across the country.”
Keynote speaker and Dean of Commissioners of Women Affairs, Edema Irom from Cross River State, hailed the launch as “historic and timely.” She highlighted five strategic commitments, including full domestication of the National Women’s Economic Empowerment Policy and increased representation of women in leadership, which she believes will pave the way for a more inclusive future. “Progress for women and girls is inseparable from the nation’s growth,” she affirmed.
NGF’s Director of Gender Affairs, Hauwa Haliru, described the COP as a collaborative mechanism promoting peer learning, advocacy, and coordinated leadership to advance women’s economic empowerment nationwide. The platform will enable commissioners to share best practices, organise training, monitor progress, and form rapid response teams to address emerging gender issues effectively.