Sanusi: Women crucial to achieving development — we can’t overlook their value

Muhammadu Sanusi, the Emir of Kano, says countries that fail to recognise the importance of women will not grow.

Sanusi spoke in Abuja on Tuesday at the 2024 edition of Nkata Ndi Inyom Igbo’s (NNIIF) annual conference.

The former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) highlighted women’s crucial role in development, peace, and unity.

He lamented that Kano has a high percentage of malnourished children, noting the alarming rates of infant deaths, maternal mortality, out-of-school children, and drug addiction in Nigeria.

“A country that does not recognise the importance of women will never develop,” he said.

He stressed that until women were recognised as central to development and policies were built around them, these issues would persist.

Josephine Anenih, founder of Nkata Ndi Inyom Igbo Foundation, reiterated that promoting women’s leadership is crucial for Nigeria to achieve sustainable growth.

“Empowering women is essential for sustainable development, as they play a vital role in environmental management and development,” Anenih said.

“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.”

On his part, Rochas Okorocha, former governor of Imo, urged women to strive to be relevant and hold leadership positions.

“Don’t look for relevance; be relevant, and the men will shift for you to rule,” Okorocha said.