Lagos: The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) and some women industrialists have called for the implementation of policies that support work-life balance and gender equality. They made the call in Lagos at an event organised by MAN in commemoration of the International Women’s Day, annually celebrated on March 8.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the 2025 Edition has the theme: ‘Accelerate Action for Gender Equality.’ Mr Segun Ajayi-Kadir, the Director-General of MAN, emphasised the need for mentorship and training programmes and active promotion of women into leadership positions. He noted that while celebrating the achievements of women today, it was also important to reflect on the work that still lay ahead.
Ajayi-Kadir stressed the collective responsibility of the public to challenge stereotypes, dismantle barriers, and advocate for policies that promote gender equality. ‘As we stand here today, we recognise that women play a pivotal role in the manufacturing sector and the broader economy of Nigeria. Women have been at the forefront of driving growth, enhancing productivity, and bringing fresh perspectives to our industries. In spite of these contributions, we know that challenges remain, gender disparities persist, and many women still face barriers that hinder their full participation in the workforce,’ he said.
The MAN D-G called for gender diversity in the workplace to lead to improved performance, increased creativity, and enhanced problem-solving capabilities. He said that when women thrive, businesses thrive, and when businesses thrive, the nation flourished. He also reaffirmed the association’s commitment to promoting gender equality within the manufacturing sector.
Princess Funlayo Bakare-Okeowo, an industrialist, described Nigerian women as an unstoppable moving train. Bakare-Okeowo, Chief Executive Officer of FAE Envelopes Ltd., however, noted that while women in other climes were breaking glass ceilings, in Nigeria, women appeared to be crawling. She said Nigerian women in the business world must take the bull by its horns and compete fiercely to be taken seriously.
‘We must stop pitying ourselves, start thinking outside the box, and partner with other women to advance business and industrialisation. Women must learn to mentor young ladies, hold each other’s hands, invest in trainings, and partner with sectoral organisations to advance personal growth and business success. Let us work together to create a future where every woman can realise her full potential, where her contributions are recognised and celebrated, and where gender equality is not just a goal, but a reality,’ she said.
Mrs Ekanma Akpan, CEO of Showers Group, said that women’s education was a key to acceleration and urged women to set emotions aside in politics and business environments. She also called on women to come together to speak with one voice for the much-needed change to be established.