The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), Mrs. Rianat Ajibike Onigbanjo, on Friday, delivered the keynote address at the Ruby Summit hosted by the NECA Network of Entrepreneurial Women (NNEW), Lagos Chapter, held at NECA House, Alausa, Ikeja.
Speaking on the theme “The Role of Young Women Entrepreneurs in Community Development,” Mrs. Onigbanjo commended NNEW for its consistent efforts in empowering female entrepreneurs since its inception in 2005. She particularly lauded the establishment of the Ruby Arm in 2021, which focuses on amplifying the voices and visibility of young women in business.
She noted that the Summit’s theme strongly aligns with the core mandate of WAPA under the leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, citing the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to empowering women through vocational training, business clinics, economic empowerment initiatives, and strategic public-private partnerships.
Mrs. Onigbanjo emphasised that empowering young women is not just a gender focused agenda but a strategic imperative for sustainable development and lasting community transformation. She urged stakeholders to strengthen structures and support systems that foster the social and economic advancement of women.
In recognition of her impactful keynote speech and continuous advocacy for women’s economic empowerment in Lagos State, Mrs. Onigbanjo was presented with the “Outstanding Advocate for Women Entrepreneurship & Community Impact” award by NNEW. Additionally, she received a special appreciation gift from NEXUS, one of the event’s sponsors, for her dedication to uplifting young women entrepreneurs.
Also, in attendance were numerous female entrepreneurs, including the Chairperson of NNEW, Lagos Chapter, Dr. (Mrs.) Ekaette Etibet, who described the platform as “one of purpose, where women are inspired to rise.”
