In a compelling address delivered at a one-day seminar commemorating International Women’s Day 2025, Barrister Mrs. Onomen Briggs, the Executive Chairman of Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), called for enhanced female leadership in politics as a catalyst for sustainable development and inclusive governance.
Organized by the Office of the First Lady, Edo State, in partnership with the Professional Women’s Group, and held at the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy, the seminar brought together policymakers, professionals, and emerging female leaders under the theme “Accelerate Action: Enhancing Women’s Participation in Politics.”
Mrs. Briggs urged women to embrace self-reliance and contribute substantive value in traditionally male-dominated spaces, stating, “Women must be self-reliant. As we enter this historically male-dominated space, we must not merely occupy seats at the table—we must add value to them.”
The event was graced by distinguished dignitaries including the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Anani Edesili; the wife of the Secretary to the State Government, Hajia Nimata Musa Ikhilor; the Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Mrs. Maria Edeko; and the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Gender Issues, Chief Bisi Idaoye.
In her goodwill message, Mrs. Briggs emphasized that the active participation of professional women in politics is not only essential but serves as a powerful force for driving sustainable development and fostering inclusive governance, adding that, “It is imperative that we foster an environment where competence, vision, and dedication—not gender—define political participation.”
She further highlighted the critical role of education in empowering future leaders by reaffirming SUBEB’s commitment to policies that equip young girls with the knowledge, confidence, and leadership skills necessary for societal contribution. Praising the event organizers for creating a platform that amplifies the voices of women in leadership, Mrs. Briggs expressed her hope that the seminar would inspire bold, transformative actions toward achieving gender equity in the political arena.
