DIWA Hosts 2026 Women’s Summit Focused on Empowering Voices, Advancing Women’s Rights Within Faith and Society
By Aisha Muhammed Kudu.
The 2026 Women’s Summit, organized by the Development Initiative of West Africa (DIWA), gathered stakeholders from civil society, government agencies, religious leaders, and traditional authorities across Niger, Kogi, Kwara, Benue, and the FCT.
In a welcoming speech, DIWA Chief Executive Officer Daoda Kanneh highlighted the summit’s commitment to creating a safe environment where women’s voices are heard and amplified, ultimately shaping societal decisions.
“We gather at a time marked by rising inequalities, social divisions, and ongoing gender-based violence. Many women in our communities still face participation barriers, discrimination based on harmful norms, and violence that undermines their dignity and potential.
This summit emphasizes our dedication to establishing safe spaces where women can contribute meaningfully to societal change,” he stated.
Kanneh also expressed hope that the summit will inspire lasting commitments and partnerships to lead impactful actions beyond this event.
Dr. Zubaida Abubakar, Gender and GBV Specialist at the United Nations Population Fund, stressed the importance of empowering women and girls to achieve their full potential, noting that such empowerment is crucial for national development.
Executive Director of the ED Center for Accountability, Annu Rotimi, remarked that women still face significant social and economic challenges despite ongoing advocacy for equality, emphasizing that genuine progress requires more than just equality.
Imam Fuad Adeyemi of Alhabibiyyah Mosque in Abuja highlighted the vital role of religious leaders in guiding their followers and pointed out that Islam values women highly.
In goodwill messages, representatives including Dr. Wede Wallace Edhure of the International Community School Abuja, Miss Chinatu Audrey Azubogu of North South Power Foundation, and former National Ameerah of FOMWAN, Hajia Halima Jibrin, reaffirmed that a future where women’s rights are protected is possible, depending on courage, dedication, and collective effort.
The President of the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria, Kogi State Chapter, Dr. Adefunmilola Onifade, commended DIWA for organizing the summit and assured that the discussions and recommendations will be thoughtfully implemented.
