The HID Awolowo Foundation is set to host a significant national dialogue that will critically examine the state of women's political participation in Nigeria. This important event comes as Nigeria joins the global community in marking three decades since the landmark Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.
Reflecting on Three Decades of Women's Political Journey
According to a statement signed by the Foundation's Convener and Executive Director, Dr. Tokunbo Awolowo-Dosunmu, the dialogue represents a crucial moment for national reflection. She described it as "a moment to reflect on progress, reclaim agency, and reimagine leadership in Nigeria through the eyes of its women."
The event, themed "Breaking Barriers or Standing Still? Nigerian Women in Politics 30 Years After Beijing," will take place on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at the Efunyela Hall in Ikenne, Ogun State. Proceedings will begin at 9:00 a.m. as part of activities marking the 110th posthumous birthday of Yeye Oodua, Chief (Mrs) Hannah Idowu Dideolu (HID) Awolowo.
Confronting the Slow Pace of Progress
Dr. Awolowo-Dosunmu emphasized that this year's dialogue aims to directly address the disappointing pace of progress in women's political representation across Nigeria. Despite decades of advocacy and the country's commitments under the Beijing Platform for Action, recent statistics reveal that Nigerian women remain significantly underrepresented in both elective and appointive positions.
"This year's dialogue aims to interrogate the slow pace of progress in women's political representation in Nigeria, despite decades of advocacy and the country's commitments under the Beijing Platform for Action," she stated. The event has prompted renewed calls for comprehensive reforms and stronger institutional support systems.
Distinguished Participants and Forward-Looking Agenda
The dialogue will feature an impressive lineup of distinguished participants. Senator Daisy Danjuma, Executive Chairman of South Atlantic Petroleum, will chair the proceedings, while renowned scholar and gender expert Professor Olabisi Aina will deliver the keynote address. Professor Aina is expected to provide a comprehensive analysis of Nigeria's journey from 1995 to the present day, highlighting both achievements and persistent challenges.
A diverse panel of high-profile discussants will share valuable insights, including Dr. Chantal Fanny, Vice President of the Senate of Côte d'Ivoire, among other notable figures. The concluding session, which will focus on mapping concrete strategies for advancement, will be moderated by Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in the Diaspora Commission.
The Foundation continues to honor the towering legacy of HID Awolowo (1915-2015), remembered as a formidable businesswoman, political actor, community leader, and iconic matriarch of the Awolowo family. Her life continues to serve as an inspiration for generations of women navigating the complex intersections of leadership, family responsibilities, and public service.
