Nigerian women have been charged to be better organised and become a force to reckon with in the pursuit of national progress. The call was made by Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, Governor of Borno State, who was the chairman at the launch of the book, “101 Nigerian Women of Impact” written by Barrister Zainab Marwa.
“We are not just here to launch a book. We are here to highlight the incredible achievements of women and the value they bring to the table when properly supported by our system. We are here to draw the attention of the nation to the expanding scope of possibilities with women in different areas when we provide the environment for them to thrive”, Zulum stated.
The launch at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, attracted the creme of society with the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi and Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar as the royal fathers of the day.
The reviewer of the book, Femi Adesina, Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to the President had described the compendium as a “well-written book” of which he looks forward to subsequent editions. In his review, Adesina said: “The book spans through a period of 2015-2023 and the ambitions and achievements of the women in the time frame. The book would incite a passion in the young women to reach out to breaking glass ceilings and achieving their dreams.”
Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd), Chairman and CEO of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, and father of the author expressed delight at the occasion.
He stressed that the title of the book aligns closely with the author’s scholarly pursuit in light of her doctorate degree in Gender Studies and her involvement with the Oxford Women’s Leadership Development Programme at Oxford University in the United Kingdom, noted that one of the book’s merits is its currency for the contemporary society and its future.
“Our world still remains largely a man’s world. The list of achievers still remains largely male in business, entertainment, sports, and what have you. “Ooni of Ife in his remark, among other things, thanked Gen Marwa for his service to the country. “I want to thank you for every great thing you are doing for this country,” the monarch stated.
The highlight of the event was the unveiling of the book where dignitaries, including representatives of Mr. Femi Otedola, the chief presenter of the book; Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Chairman of Dangote Group, and a host of others bought copies of the book to support the author’s goal.
Dr. Edu, in her remarks, asserted that Nigerian women have paid the ultimate prize for the development of the country.
“The book represents a promotion for all Nigerian women,” the APC Women Leader said.
The author in her vote of thanks, explained her motivation for writing the book. “I needed mentors to inspire my desire to run for office (in 2019), but I couldn’t find any,” she explained.