Nigeria Advocates for Global Alliances to Empower Women at RISE 2026 Conference
Nigeria has reiterated the importance of forging robust global partnerships to elevate women’s roles in politics, economic endeavors, and societal opportunities. This call was made during the Second High-Level International Conference on the Political and Economic Empowerment of Women, known as RISE 2026, held in Belgrade, Serbia.
Conference Overview
The event, themed “Building Alliances for Generations to Come,” facilitated discussions among ministers, senior officials, and stakeholders aimed at exploring effective strategies to enhance the political and economic stature of women globally.
Nigeria’s Initiatives for Women’s Empowerment
Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, the Nigerian Minister for Women Affairs and Social Development, highlighted several initiatives designed to promote women’s empowerment. These include:
- Nigeria for Women Project Scale-Up (NFWP-SU)
- Women in Agriculture Value Expansion (WAVE)
- Women in Natural Gas Project
During the panel discussion titled “Alliances for the Future,” she emphasized that fostering strategic collaborations is essential for improving women’s economic prospects and ensuring their involvement in decision-making processes. She specifically urged that young women should not face exclusion in the wake of advancements in digital technologies and artificial intelligence.
Advocating for Equal Opportunities
Sulaiman-Ibrahim called for equal access to education, employment, and political participation for young women, stressing the collective responsibility to confront new challenges and harness opportunities for future generations. This sentiment was echoed by other key figures at the conference.
Voices of Support from Serbian Leadership
Opening the conference, Tamara Vučić, a Serbian diplomat and former First Lady, advocated for enhanced support for women’s rights and opportunities. She emphasized the necessity for a society in which women can freely engage in public life, exercise their rights, and pursue education and employment without the threat of discrimination or violence.
Serbia’s Minister for Gender Equality, Tatjana Macura, further reinforced the need for intergenerational cooperation to sustain progress in women’s empowerment. She noted that blending diverse perspectives can create stronger alliances and broaden opportunities for women and girls.
Thematic Discussions
The conference included a high-profile political roundtable along with thematic panels addressing crucial topics such as:
- Intergenerational partnerships
- Women’s political leadership
- Preventing violence against women
- Economic empowerment strategies
Nigeria’s participation highlighted the value of international collaboration in promoting gender equality and enhancing women’s representation in leadership roles to pave the way for sustainable development.
Conclusion
The RISE 2026 conference served as a vital platform for sharing knowledge and best practices, reinforcing the commitment from different nations to empower women and build a more equitable future.
