Participants at the UNDP Women Leaders Networking Meeting in Abuja discuss strategies to advance women's leadership across Africa.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has urged African governments and institutions to remove barriers limiting women’s participation in leadership, warning that the continent cannot achieve sustainable development while underutilising half of its leadership potential.
The call came during the Women Leaders Networking Meeting held in Abuja, where government officials, diplomats, business leaders, academics and civil society representatives discussed strategies to expand women’s role in governance, economic development and decision-making.
Convened by UNDP Nigeria in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the meeting highlighted women’s leadership as a critical driver of stronger institutions, inclusive governance and economic growth.
Participants said Africa’s development depends on creating opportunities for more women to influence public policy, lead institutions and contribute to innovation and economic transformation.
The meeting also renewed calls for increased women’s representation in public office and decision-making in Nigeria, with speakers arguing that broader inclusion would strengthen governance and produce more balanced policies.
Participants further advocated improved access to finance, entrepreneurship support, investment opportunities and digital innovation to enhance women’s economic participation.
They also stressed the need for mentorship programmes, leadership development initiatives and stronger institutional support to prepare more young women for leadership roles.
UNDP reaffirmed its commitment to promoting inclusive governance and women’s leadership through partnerships with governments, institutions and communities across Africa.
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