As Nigeria celebrates her 65th Independence Anniversary, the Standup for Women (SWS) extends warm congratulations to the government and people of Nigeria.
In a press statement released by the association’s national PRO, Lib. Billie Nwogu, the international President, Barr. Deborah .A. Ojadele-Adetona stated that this milestone is not only a time to reflect on our journey as a nation but also an opportunity to chart a more inclusive path for the future.
SWS notes with pride the numerous contributions of Nigerian women in education, business, governance, healthcare, media, and community development. Across generations, women have continued to demonstrate resilience, competence, and integrity in leadership and service.
However, their representation in sensitive quarters where critical decisions are taken, such as security, policymaking, governance, technology, and finance, remains significantly low.
We therefore call on the Federal Government, state governments, and all stakeholders to create more enabling environments for women to participate in sensitive national development sectors.
This includes equitable access to political appointments, economic empowerment programs, leadership training, and supportive structures that enable women to thrive while balancing their roles in society.
Nigeria cannot fully achieve her potential if half of her population is left on the margins of leadership and decision-making.
By deliberately engaging more women in sensitive quarters, the nation will benefit from their unique perspectives, innovative ideas, and proven track record of accountability and inclusivity.
SWS further urges that existing policies on gender equality and women’s empowerment be fully implemented, monitored, and strengthened. Beyond tokenism, women must be given substantive opportunities to contribute meaningfully in governance, security architecture, diplomacy, and other high-level platforms where the future of our country is shaped.
As the nation marks 65 years of independence, the Standup for Women Society (SWS) envisions a Nigeria where women and men work side by side at the highest levels of leadership, driving progress, peace, and prosperity together.
As a group, we would continue to support the present administration of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu to achieve the desired result to build formidable structure where women thrive for greatness and add value to the development of our dear country, Nigeria.
We stand ready to partner with the government and institutions in building this reality.
