Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II has said countries that do not recognise importance of women will not grow.
Gatekeepers News reports that Sanusi II said this on Tuesday at the 2024 edition of Nkata Ndi Inyom Igbo’s (NNIIF) annual conference in Abuja.
The Emir highlighted women’s crucial role in development, peace, and unity.
He lamented that Kano has a high percentage of malnourished children, stressing that the rates of infant deaths, maternal mortality, out-of-school children, and drug addiction in Nigeria are alarming.
The emir said, “A country that does not recognise the importance of women will never develop.”
The former CBN governor further said that until women were recognised because central to development and policies were built around them, these issues would persist.
Also, Josephine Anenih, founder of Nkata Ndi Inyom Igbo Foundation said that promoting women’s leadership is crucial for Nigeria to achieve sustainable growth.
She said, “Empowering women is essential for sustainable development, as they play a vital role in environmental management and development.”
“Women’s leadership and full participation are crucial in decision-making areas of sustainable development.”
“By promoting women’s leadership and addressing the challenges they face, Nigeria can work towards achieving sustainable development and a more equitable society.”
Meanwhile, Rochas Okorocha, former Governor of Imoburged women to strive to be relevant and hold leadership positions.
He said, “Don’t look for relevance; be relevant, and the men will shift for you to rule.”