Bamidele calls gender inclusion vital for Nigeria's growth at NY book launch
Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, Senate Leader, stressed that gender inclusion is a strategic investment for Nigeria’s development, not an act of favour, speaking at the launch of "The Female Diplomat: Navigating Power, Ambition and Identity" at Nigeria House, New York on Thursday, September 23, 2026. He said no nation can reach its full potential when a significant portion of its population is barred from contributing to governance and development.
Bamidele linked women’s inclusion to stronger democracy, more effective foreign relations, and greater investment opportunities, citing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda which draws on the abilities of all citizens. He noted that Tinubu has repeatedly affirmed that women and young people must not be relegated to the background, and that meaningful inclusion requires genuine opportunities to participate in decision‑making, exercise responsibility, and help shape and implement public policy.
He added that the National Assembly will continue to promote fair, accessible and responsive institutions through legislation, representation and oversight, creating an environment where competence is recognised and leadership strengthened by the participation of qualified women. Bamidele also took part in the Nigeria Investment Forum 2026, which gathered government officials, international investors, development finance institutions and business leaders to explore investment prospects in Nigeria. The event was attended by UN Deputy Secretary‑General Amina Mohammed, Minister of Foreign Affairs Amb. Bianca Odumegwu‑Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the UN Amb. Jimoh Ibrahim, and Nigeria’s Ambassador to the US Amb. Kayode Are, among other dignitaries.
With leaders pushing for gender inclusion as a driver of national progress, how will you support or benefit from increased women’s participation in governance, business, or policy‑making in your community?