The Africa Women Conference (AWC) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the appointment of new leadership for the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development, describing the development as a strong signal of commitment to gender inclusion and institutional renewal.
In a statement issued in Abuja and signed by its Convener, Dr. Jumai Ahmadu, the Conference congratulated Ms. Adedayo Benjamin Laniyi on her appointment as Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of the Centre, as well as Princess Joan Jummai Idonije on her emergence as Chairman of the Governing Council.
AWC said the appointments reflect recognition of competence, dedication, and years of consistent advocacy for women’s empowerment and national development. It noted that both appointees have demonstrated strong commitment to inclusive leadership, mentorship, and social transformation.
According to the group, the new leadership is well positioned to strengthen the mandate of the Centre and drive initiatives that promote the advancement of women, children, families, and vulnerable groups across the country.
The Conference further observed that the appointees have remained active supporters of its initiatives aimed at promoting women’s participation in governance, entrepreneurship, and policy development across Africa.
AWC also commended the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, for what it described as her commitment to placing capable women in strategic leadership positions, noting that such efforts are helping to strengthen women-focused institutions in the country.
It equally praised President Tinubu for sustaining policies that promote gender inclusion and national development through what it termed purposeful leadership appointments.
The Conference expressed confidence that the new Governing Council and management team would introduce innovative ideas, deepen institutional capacity, and build strategic partnerships that would enhance the impact of the Centre’s programmes nationwide.
Members of the Governing Council include Princess Joan Jummai Idonije (Chairman); Ms. Lois Auta; Hon. Jamila Sarki; Aisha Baiyee; Hon. Jumoke Okoya-Thomas; and Hon. Princess Anne Agom-Eze.
