Vice-President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed the federal government’s dedication to advancing gender equity through transformative policies.

He said this on Monday during the H.I.D. Awolowo Foundation Webinar, in commemoration of the 109th posthumous birthday of Hannah Awolowo, wife of the late Obafemi Awolowo.

The vice president emphasised the indispensable role of women in building a balanced and equitable society and called for renewed national efforts to create an inclusive society where women are empowered to lead and thrive.

According to him, every nation’s treatment of women serves as the ultimate marker of its civilisation.

“We cannot claim to have evolved as a nation unless we recommit ourselves to creating a society that offers women unconditional dignity and opportunity,” he said.

He eulogised the late Mrs Awolowo, describing her as “a matriarch like no other and a jewel of inestimable value.”

He lauded her contributions to modern Nigeria, her support to her husband, Obafemi Awolowo, and her advocacy for women’s rights.

“Mrs Awolowo’s courage and influence were instrumental in shaping policies like free education in the Western Region. This is what an empowered woman can achieve,” he said.

On the historical struggles for women’s rights, Mr Shettima referenced the activism of global pioneers like Susan Anthony and Nigerian icons such as Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti and Gambo Sawaba.

He said, “these trailblazers compelled us to confront the structural inequalities holding women back.

“Thanks to their efforts, the conversation has expanded beyond suffrage to include workplace equality, reproductive rights and the fight against domestic violence,” he said.

Mr Shettima also pointed to the transformative impact of technology, adding that digital platforms have amplified women’s voices and driven legislative victories like the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act of 2015.

“This landmark legislation is a testament to the power of women-led advocacy and their determination to create a safer, fairer society,” he said.

He reiterated the importance of representation and leadership opportunities for women.

He commended President Bola Tinubu for his inclusive governance, shaped by the legacy of his mother, Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji, a formidable women’s rights advocate.

“Her legal battle for personal liberty set a precedent in our constitutional history, reminding us that women’s rights are human rights and must never be negotiated,” he added.

The vice president called for urgent action to address societal inequalities, particularly in education and leadership.

“The nation we must build is one where no girl is denied the chance to learn, no woman is denied the opportunity to lead, and no mother is denied the dignity of safety and respect.”

He urged Nigerians to honour the legacy of women like Mrs Awolowo and embrace collective responsibilities to empower women.

“We are working to create an environment where women are not just supported but celebrated; where their aspirations redefine societal expectations and help build a viable, equitable and thriving nation.”

Amina Mohammed, deputy secretary-general of the United Nations, said Nov. 25th marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and the start of 16 days of activism against gender-based violence.

She explained that HID Awolowo was a fighter for social justice and human rights and took every opportunity to show the power of women in economic development.

“Every chapter of her story tells us that no bird can fly on one wing. We need the leadership and representation of women. We need partnerships for change—everyone must work for sustainable systemic change.

“We need to end the scourge of gender-based violence as an absolute priority, essential for growth.

“Societies cannot achieve the equal and just society envisioned by HID Awolowo if we leave 50 per cent of the world’s population behind,” she said.

Earlier, Sen. Daisy Danjuma, the chairperson of the HID Awolowo Foundation Advisory Council, noted that in building a viable Nigeria, the role of women should not be overlooked.

“Together, let us chart a society where the role of women is recognised, celebrated, and utilised,” she said.

Dr Olatokunbo Dosumu, the executive director and co-founder of the Obafemi Awolowo Foundation, while welcoming guests to the webinar, described HID Awolowo and her late husband as giants of intellect, integrity, service and sacrifice.

He said their lives were a testament to the power of purposeful living.

“They left us a blueprint for leadership and a legacy of hope. It is, therefore, with immense pride (and I hasten to add humility) that I speak before you today, reflecting on the legacy of these two extraordinary individuals.

“To be their offspring is not just a privilege; it is a profound responsibility.

“Their legacy is not meant to be confined to history books or family stories; it is a legacy that demands to be shared, understood and applied in Nigeria and beyond.

“Our role, therefore, is to identify actionable plans and strategies and amplify the voices and capacities of women.”

(NAN)