The Criterion, a prominent association for Muslim women in business and professions, has wrapped up its landmark international conference, Eko Akete 2025, with a powerful call to action. The event, held in Lagos from November 12 to 16, 2025, positioned the holistic empowerment of women—through technology, ethical parenting, and STEM education—as a critical solution to Nigeria's escalating societal challenges.
A Blueprint for Empowerment and Moral Leadership
In a official communiqué, the outgoing International Amirah, Hajia Medinat Olufunke Akanni, and the Conference Planning Committee Chairperson, Hajia Ibironke Siddqah, articulated the core mission. They emphasized the foundational role women play in shaping the nation's moral fabric. The association firmly believes that committed and ethical parenting is a primary strategy for combating widespread social ills and nurturing a God-fearing generation.
Bridging the Digital and Educational Divide
A significant portion of the resolutions focused on the urgent need for technological empowerment. Hajia Medinat Olufunke Akanni stressed that women must actively harness digital tools and platforms. This is not just for personal growth but as a vital engine for family economic stability and accelerated national development. The association advocates for deliberate policies to integrate more women and girls into STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. However, this advancement must be carefully balanced with moral and spiritual values to ensure family integrity remains strong.
The conference also issued a direct appeal to educational institutions and parents. They were urged to integrate the ethical use of modern technology, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, into learning curricula. The leaders argued that responsible digital citizenship is non-negotiable for sustainable nation-building. Furthermore, a call was made to all government tiers to provide affordable and accessible internet for rural secondary schools, a crucial step to conclusively bridge the persistent urban-rural digital divide.
A New Leadership and a Continued Mission
The high-profile event was graced by the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, who encouraged Muslim women to continue breaking societal barriers. The opening ceremony was co-chaired by former NAHCON Chairman/CEO, Ustaz Dhikrullah Olakunle Hassan, and Senator Idiat Oluranti Adebule.
A major highlight was the leadership transition. Following the dissolution of the outgoing executive by the Shurah Committee headed by Hajia Mutiat Hassan, Hajia Sakirat Omolara Shekoni emerged as the new International Amirah. Shekoni, a distinguished Chartered Accountant and Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (FCA) from Abuja, previously served as the International Naibat-ul Amirah (Deputy Leader). Her appointment marks the start of a new two-year administrative tenure.
Other newly appointed executive members include:
- Hajia Dhikrat Abiodun Matesun-Oshodi (Lagos) as the new Naibatul Amirah
- Hajia Simibiat Salaudeen (Abuja) as National Secretary General
- Riskia Adedimeji (Lagos) as Public Relations Officer
- Barrister Fausat Bakare (Lagos) as Legal Officer
The immediate past Amirah, Justice Medinah Akanni, will continue to contribute her vast experience as an Ex-Officio member, ensuring continuity and guidance for the new team.
