EMPOWERHER 2024: A Celebration of Women’s Health, Justice, and Empowerment

By Ijeoma Onyeaghala

In a powerful gathering to champion women’s health, justice, farming, education, and economic support, the EMPOWERHER 2024 event unfolded at the prestigious Aso Villa Banquet Hall in Abuja, Nigeria. Hosted by the Honorable Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, the event brought together an impressive array of political/tech leaders, foreign representatives, policymakers, and innovators to highlight critical issues affecting women in Nigeria and beyond.

The high-profile occasion featured notable guests, including George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, who represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and philanthropist High Chief Arthur Eze, who made headlines with a generous donation of 100 million naira to the Ministry of Women Affairs.

A particularly striking moment came from Orjinta Nnaemeka Orji, co-founder of NEXTGENAI LTD, who was specially invited by the Minister and also served as a keynote speaker at the event. Addressing the role of artificial intelligence and technology in driving women’s empowerment and closing the gap with outreach programs, Orjinta also underscored the potential of AI to transform education, healthcare, and entrepreneurial opportunities for women across Nigeria. He matched his vision with action by donating 10 AI Ready supercomputers and a lump sum of 5 Million Naira to the Ministry of Women Affairs to bolster digital literacy and innovation programs for Nigerian women.

Other special invitees included the NEXTGENAI LTD representatives, APC National Youth Leader, Dayo Israel, SSA on Hotel & Tourism to the executive governor of Kogi State, Yakubu Suleiman Yusuf, UBA Group Chairman, High Chief John Bosco alongside influential stakeholders from various sectors, all united by a shared commitment to advancing gender equity.

Though President Tinubu was unable to attend in person, his message of support for the EMPOWERHER initiative was delivered through Akume, reinforcing the administration’s dedication to addressing gender disparities and ensuring women’s voices are heard at the highest levels of decision-making.

EMPOWERHER 2024 stood out as more than a simple gathering, it reflected a collective resolve to improve the lives of Nigerian women. With contributions from visionaries like Orjinta Orji and benefactors like Arthur Eze, the platform promises to leave a lasting impact, inspiring the next generation of leaders to prioritize social justice and equal opportunities for all.