Women’s participation in leadership received a major boost in Niger State as government officials, labour leaders, and legislators converged for the 6th State Delegates Conference of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Niger State Council Women’s Committee.
The event, held in Minna, brought together delegates from across the state to discuss women’s empowerment, labour rights, and the need for stronger gender representation in leadership.
Governor Bago’s Women Inclusion Drive
Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, represented by his Special Adviser on Labour Matters, Engr. Aminu Yusuf, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to women’s empowerment, revealing that over 100 women had been appointed to political positions within his first 90 days in office—a promise made during his election campaign.
Describing women as the “bedrock of every society,” Bago urged the newly elected NLC Women’s Committee executives to consolidate the progress of their predecessors and deepen women’s participation in both governance and the labour movement. He also praised the cordial relationship between the state government and organised labour, noting his administration’s commitment to both women’s empowerment and workers’ welfare.
NLC Calls for Greater Support
President of the NLC, Comrade Joe Ajaero—represented by Mrs. Ngozi Ezike—called for a united effort in defending workers’ rights and equipping women with the skills and platforms they need to contribute meaningfully to trade unions and national development.
Ajaero highlighted the Congress’ gains in gender mainstreaming through capacity building and leadership opportunities, commending women in the labour movement for delivering tangible results. He challenged NLC leadership at all levels to give women the maximum support needed to excel in their roles.
Legislative Backing for Women’s Leadership
The Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, represented by Chairman of the House Committee on Labour, Hon. Murtala Adamu Badaru, assured the gathering of the legislature’s readiness to support policies that promote women’s advancement, especially for the vulnerable. He reminded the newly elected officers that leadership is a responsibility and an opportunity to prove themselves through service.
Labour Leaders Urge Teamwork and Performance
Chairman of the NLC Niger State Council, Comrade Idris Lafene, described Niger as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful and labour-friendly states. He congratulated the women on successfully organising the conference and emphasised that Women’s Committee elections in the state often rely on consensus-building. He charged the new leaders to embrace teamwork, seek clarity when in doubt, and lead with integrity.
New Chairperson’s Pledge
In her acceptance speech, newly elected Chairperson Comrade Amamatu Dada expressed gratitude for the trust placed in her. She pledged to carry all members along, amplify the voices of women, champion empowerment initiatives, and work to eliminate gender inequality.
She will be joined in leadership by:
Comrade Kulu Garba – Vice Chairperson
Comrade Aisha Garba Paiko – Secretary
Comrade Ruth Yuhana – Assistant Secretary
Comrades Rebecca Sule & Mary Isah – Ex-Officio Members
The newly inaugurated members took their oath of office administered by Comrade Ngozi Ezike, who served as the National Executive and Returning Officer.
The event was rounded off with colourful cultural performances by Gwape International, symbolising the unity of purpose and cultural pride that underpinned the day’s proceedings.
