Vice President Shettima affirms that Nigerian women will be central to Africa’s $29 trillion economy by 2050. Read more on the 2025 Gender Inclusion Conference and Project #SheIsIncluded.
Introduction
Vice President Kashim Shettima has highlighted the crucial role Nigerian women will play in achieving Africa’s projected $29 trillion economy by 2050. Speaking at the 2025 Gender Inclusion Conference in Abuja, he launched the Project #SheIsIncluded, reinforcing the government’s commitment to women’s empowerment as a key driver of national and continental economic growth.
Nigeria’s Role in Africa’s Economic Growth
Shettima emphasized that Nigeria’s economic trajectory is integral to Africa’s future. With the nation expected to become the world’s third most populous country by 2050, surpassing the United States, its women—who make up half the population—are essential to achieving sustainable development.
According to a statement by Stanley Nkwocha, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Shettima described the Gender Inclusion Conference as more than a policy dialogue—it is a bold declaration of responsibility for Africa’s economic transformation.
Women’s Inclusion: A Blueprint for Economic Success
Shettima reaffirmed the government’s stance on gender inclusion, stating that it is not merely a concept but a reality in motion, with policies designed to yield measurable economic benefits. He stressed that integrating women into financial and economic systems is central to Nigeria’s growth strategy.
“One in every four Black people is Nigerian. By 2050, Nigeria will surpass the United States in population. Numbers matter. Half of our population are women, and where Nigeria leads, Africa follows,” Shettima stated.
He further underscored that bridging gender gaps is not just an obligation but a necessary step in achieving Africa’s economic transformation, adding:
“We are steering Africa towards a projected $29 trillion economy, and Nigeria’s role in this journey is undeniable.”
Breaking Barriers: The Vision of Project #SheIsIncluded
The 2025 Gender Inclusion Conference, themed “Breaking Barriers, Building Resilience for Sustainable Women’s Economic and Financial Inclusion,” builds on the 2024 Aso Accord for Economic and Financial Inclusion and aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5)—gender equality and women’s empowerment.
Shettima revealed that Project #SheIsIncluded is structured around four key pillars:
- Education and financial literacy
- Maternal healthcare
- Gender-sensitive policies and programs
- Expanded economic opportunities for women
He announced that the initiative will be implemented across all 774 local government areas in Nigeria, ensuring no woman is left behind.
“This is not about fulfilling quotas; it is about unlocking Nigeria’s full economic potential by empowering women,” he stated.
Government and Private Sector Collaboration for Gender Inclusion
The Vice President emphasized that the initiative is a core pillar of Nigeria’s development agenda, rather than a symbolic gesture. He highlighted the Presidential Committee on Economic and Financial Inclusion, in partnership with the Ministry of Women Affairs, as key players in driving this vision forward.
“To create an inclusive economy, we must align with global best practices and pursue gender equality relentlessly,” he affirmed.
The two-day conference was more than just a forum—it served as a platform for serious reflection and strategic planning on how to foster an inclusive society. He urged both public and private stakeholders to take proactive steps in achieving gender inclusion.
Key Stakeholders Support Gender Inclusion Initiative
Several dignitaries and stakeholders at the conference expressed their support for women’s economic empowerment:
- Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, Chief Justice of Nigeria, highlighted that gender inclusion is central to addressing poverty and fostering economic growth. She assured that the judiciary will protect women’s economic rights and eliminate discriminatory cultural practices.
- Dr. Amina Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, described the conference as a milestone for Nigeria’s gender inclusion journey, urging investment in women’s empowerment.
- Sen. Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, reiterated VP Shettima’s commitment to inclusive economic growth.
- Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman Ibrahim, Minister of Women Affairs, stressed the need to dismantle barriers to women’s empowerment through strategic frameworks.
- Governor Uba Sani (Kaduna State) reaffirmed the state’s commitment to economic inclusion policies targeting women and vulnerable groups.
- Governor Umar Namadi (Jigawa State) announced free education for girls across all levels as a deliberate effort to stimulate rural economies.
- Governor Monday Okpebholo (Edo State) commended the initiative and emphasized policies supporting women’s productive potential.
Financial Institutions and Corporate Stakeholders Weigh In
Industry leaders also pledged their support for the SheIsIncluded initiative:
- Tosin Eniolorunda, Founder of Moniepoint Microfinance Bank, stated that economic inclusion is not charity but a necessity for growth, affirming the bank’s commitment to gender inclusion.
- Oliver Alawuba, GMD/CEO of UBA Group, lauded the Vice President’s office for convening the first-ever gender inclusion conference, emphasizing that empowering women unlocks economic potential.
- Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CEO of NITDA, along with other financial and tech industry leaders, reaffirmed their commitment to supporting women’s financial inclusion.
Conclusion: A Call to Action for Gender Inclusion
Vice President Shettima concluded by emphasizing the importance of practical implementation of gender policies, urging stakeholders to ensure that recommendations from the conference translate into tangible outcomes.
“When women are empowered, families flourish, communities thrive, and nations prosper,” he stated.
The 2025 Gender Inclusion Conference marks a significant step towards achieving a more inclusive economy, positioning Nigeria’s women as key drivers of Africa’s economic future.
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