…powered by First Lady, Betsy Obaseki
The Nigerian Women Leaders’ Forum (NWLF), a brainchild of the First Lady of Edo State, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, was inaugurated in Benin City, Edo State, on Thursday, October 31, 2024, with the theme “Shaping Tomorrow: Empowering Women for Inclusive Governance, Transformative Leadership, and Lasting Impact”.
The Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub on Airport Road, Benin City was a beehive as women from different walks of life across the country converged to rub minds on how to empower women to shape the future.
In her keynote speech, businesswoman, motivational speaker and author, Dr. Ibukun Awosika, addressed “The Importance of Resilience in Building Legacy”, offering an educational and transformative perspective.
Awosika emphasized the need for women to support one another instead of undermining each other, highlighting the inherent strength of women. Acknowledging the vital roles women play in nation-building, she urged them to take action.
“We have talked the talk; now it’s time to walk the talk,” she said.
Awosika stressed the importance of creating a legacy for future generations of women who aspire to be influential leaders in Nigeria, the continent, and the world. She reiterated that resilience is essential for establishing a lasting legacy.
Delivering an inspiring speech detailing the origins of the Nigerian Women Leaders’ Forum, Edo First Lady, Betsy Obaseki, said the Forum was born from her passion. She shared that although she intended to start the forum eight years ago, she faced fear and discouragement along the way. However, recognizing it as a divine movement, she felt compelled to establish it and expressed gratitude to her supporters who continually reminded her of the vision. She encouraged women to actively engage in politics and contribute to nation-building.
In a panel session that included Prof. Kokunre Eghafona of the Department of Sociology and Anthropology, University of Benin; Rt. Hon. (Mrs.) Edeko Marie Omozele, Deputy Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly; Dr. Joan Osa Oviawe, Edo State Commissioner for Education, and Ukinebo Dare of MasterCard Foundation, the panellists shared their personal stories. They discussed the challenges, triumphs, and setbacks they faced in achieving leadership positions, motivating women to persevere in pursuing their dreams.
The event, moderated by the pioneer director of the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy (JOOPSA), Ms. Imuwahen Ajoonu, had Isoken Aruede as the MC, while Iyom Josephine Anenih was the Special Guest of Honour.
The occasion was a vibrant celebration of joy, vision, and collaboration, drawing numerous women from diverse backgrounds, including religious organizations (CWO, Islamic women’s groups), market women, professionals, voluntary organizations, teachers, business owners, and civil servants. They all came together to support and share in the dreams and passion of the First Lady of Edo State, Betsy Bene Obaseki.
