Federal Government emphasizes women's health as crucial for Nigeria's economic growth

Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, stated this at the inaugural Her Health, Her Power Conference Africa 2026, organized by the VickyHeldan Empowerment Foundation in Abuja. The Minister, represented by Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women’s Development, emphasized that Nigeria's economic aspirations depend on prioritizing women's health. Suleiman-Ibrahim highlighted the government's efforts to strengthen policies and institutional structures to promote women's economic empowerment, gender equality, family development, and protection.

She urged collaboration among government, the private sector, civil society organizations, and healthcare professionals to improve outcomes for women and called for concrete actions beyond discussions. Former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, also underscored the link between women's health and economic development, advocating for greater attention to women's access to healthcare and education by political leaders. Dr. Victory Njoku, founder of the VickyHeldan Empowerment Foundation, stated that the initiative aims to advance women's health across Africa through community-based outreach programs focusing on maternal health, reproductive healthc