DIWA Hosts 2026 Women's Summit to Empower Voices and Advance Rights
The Development Initiative of West Africa (DIWA) has successfully convened the 2026 Women's Summit, a landmark event themed "Empowering Voices and Advancing Women’s Rights within Faith and Societies." This gathering brought together a diverse array of participants from civil society organizations, government stakeholders, religious leaders, and traditional authorities across Niger, Kogi, Kwara, Benue, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Keynote Address Highlights Commitment to Women's Empowerment
In his keynote address, Daoda Kanneh, the Chief Executive Officer of DIWA, emphasized that the summit reflects the organization's unwavering dedication to creating safe spaces where women's voices are not only heard but amplified. He stressed that these voices must influence decisions that shape society. Kanneh noted, "We are gathered at a time when the world continues to grapple with rising inequalities, deepening social divides, and persistent Gender-Based Violence across our communities. Too many women still face barriers to participation, discrimination rooted in harmful norms, and violence that undermines their dignity and potential." He added that the summit aims to foster more commitments and partnerships to drive sustained action long after the event concludes.
Expert Insights on Women's Role in Development
Doctor Zubaida Abubakar, the Gender and GBV Specialist from the United Nations Population Fund, underscored the critical need to empower women and girls so they can fulfill their potential. She emphasized that empowering women is a key driver of national development, highlighting the importance of inclusive policies and support systems.
Annu Rotimi, the Executive Director of the Centre for Accountability, addressed the social and economic challenges women face despite ongoing advocacy efforts. She called for equity rather than mere equality, pointing out that tailored solutions are necessary to address systemic barriers.
Religious and Community Perspectives
Imam Fuad Adeyemi, the National Chief Imam of Alhabibiyyah Mosque in Abuja, spoke on the role of religious leaders in perfecting the lives of their followers. He emphasized that Islam describes women as special and deserving of respect and protection, urging faith communities to support women's rights.
In separate goodwill messages, several prominent figures reinforced the summit's goals:
- Dr. Wede Wallace Edhure from International Community School Abuja
- Misses Chinatu Audrey Azubogu from North South Power Foundation
- Former National Ameerah of FOMWAN, Hajia Halima Jibrin
They all reminded attendees that achieving a future where women's rights are protected is possible but requires courage, commitment, and concerted action from all sectors of society.
Participant Feedback and Future Directions
Dr. Adefunmilola Onifade, President of the Medical Women Association of Nigeria, Kogi State Chapter, spoke on behalf of other participants, commending DIWA for organizing the event. She affirmed that the deliberations and recommendations from the summit will be judiciously implemented to advance women's causes. This feedback underscores the summit's impact and the collective resolve to translate discussions into tangible outcomes.
The 2026 Women's Summit by DIWA stands as a significant step towards fostering dialogue, building partnerships, and championing women's empowerment across West Africa. By bringing together key stakeholders, the event has set the stage for ongoing efforts to address gender inequalities and promote inclusive development.
