Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has called on President Bola Tinubu to make the welfare of Nigerians a priority, especially during the tough economic times the country is facing.
Speaking at the 2024 Women in Management, Business, and Public Service (WIMBIZ) conference, Osinbajo emphasized the need for programs that help people with basic needs like food, healthcare, and housing.
At the event, Osinbajo said, “The cost of living is overwhelming Nigerians’ hope for survival.” He explained that many people are struggling to afford everyday essentials, and children are especially affected by the rising food prices. He called for stronger support systems to make sure everyone’s basic needs are met, including improving access to food and affordable healthcare.
The former Vice President also discussed the issue of illiteracy, especially in the northern part of Nigeria, where many women are not able to read or write. He pointed out that more than 67% of women in northern Nigeria are illiterate. Osinbajo warned that a country where so many people are not educated will have a difficult time developing. “A country where half the population is socially and economically disempowered due to illiteracy will find development difficult, if not impossible,” he said.
He stressed the importance of big changes, such as education and programs that help people get jobs and improve their lives. Osinbajo believes that these efforts can help lift Nigerians out of poverty and create a better future for everyone.
Speaking on the conference theme, “Dream, Dare, Do,” Osinbajo praised WIMBIZ for showing resilience and inspiring others to take action and make a difference. “It’s not just about having dreams or starting enterprises—it’s about resilience and the courage to persevere through challenges,” he said.
He also pointed out the challenges that Nigerian business owners face. Many entrepreneurs are under pressure to keep up appearances of success, even when their businesses are struggling financially. Osinbajo said, “There is immense pressure on Nigerian business owners to sustain an appearance of success that their businesses cannot always support.”
Omowunmi Akingbohungbe, the Executive Director of WIMBIZ, also spoke at the event. She talked about the challenges women face in leadership roles, like dealing with stereotypes and self-doubt. She explained that the theme of the conference aimed to inspire both women and men to go after their goals with confidence.
Akingbohungbe added that WIMBIZ is pushing for more women to have leadership roles in the country. “We’re working to change the narrative on national impact by advocating for policies that include women in decision-making roles,” she said. WIMBIZ is aiming for at least 35% of leadership positions to be filled by women, which would help improve governance by bringing different perspectives to the table.
She also compared Nigeria’s 6% female representation in parliament to other countries like Rwanda, Senegal, and South Africa, where women hold over 45% of seats in their legislatures. “This isn’t about pitting one gender against the other—it’s about recognizing the value that both bring to leadership,” she said.
The WIMBIZ conference highlighted the importance of inclusive policies, strong social programs, and empowering people through education and economic opportunities. These are seen as key to Nigeria’s growth and development.
