Nigerian women on Tuesday demonstrated strong political alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as thousands converged on the Moshood Abiola National Stadium for the National Women Mega Empowerment & Rally 2026, themed “The Power of 10 Million.”
In a keynote address that underscored the significance of the gathering, the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, described the rally as a historic demonstration of unity, purpose, and commitment by Nigerian women to national development.
“I am delighted to join you here today at this National Women Mega Empowerment Rally. It gladdens my heart to see women from across the country gathered in such large numbers, united in one voice for the progress of our nation,” she said.
The First Lady commended the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development for convening what she termed a landmark initiative, noting that the scale of participation reflected the growing role of women as key stakeholders in governance and development. She emphasised that women must continue to organise, engage, and support policies that promote peace, prosperity, and inclusive growth.
Highlighting the broader implications of the rally, she noted that the movement represents a strategic effort to consolidate women’s voices into a coordinated national force capable of influencing policy and development outcomes. She further stressed that women’s empowerment must transcend political affiliations, urging sustained unity and active participation at all levels.
The event, organised by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, brought together women from diverse sectors, including political leaders, professionals, market associations, and grassroots groups, in a coordinated show of support for the administration’s development agenda.
Earlier, in her welcome remarks, the Chairman of the Organising Committee and APC Deputy National Women Leader, Hajiya Zainab Abubakar Ibrahim, commended Nigerian women for their resilience and enduring contributions to nation-building. She praised the First Lady for her sustained advocacy on women’s welfare and lauded President Bola Tinubu for advancing inclusive governance. She also acknowledged the leadership of the Minister of Women Affairs for driving initiatives aimed at empowering women nationwide, while applauding APC women for their unity and commitment.
Delivering a goodwill message, Chief Mrs. Felicia Sani, President of the Abuja Market Women Association, urged women to remain disciplined, united, and prayerful, stressing the importance of supporting leadership and participating actively in the democratic process, particularly through voter registration.
Also speaking, representatives of women with disabilities, led by Lois Auta, called for strengthened inclusion in governance, citing legal frameworks that guarantee political participation. They commended the Ministry for providing a platform that amplifies the voices of women and girls with disabilities.
In a joint remark by female heads of agencies led by Abike Dabiri-Erewa, expressed appreciation to the President and the First Lady for prioritising women-focused policies, Reaffirmed their collective commitment to national development and institutional collaboration.
Further remarks by leaders, including Imo State First Lady, Barr. Chioma Hope Uzodimma, and Ogun State Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Oyedele, emphasised the need for structured coordination among women nationwide. They noted that the Power of 10 Million initiative seek to transform women’s contributions into organised influence capable of shaping governance, economic inclusion, and community development.
The rally attracted a wide range of dignitaries, including wives of state governors, female ministers, deputy governors, members of the National Assembly, and heads of government agencies. A major highlight of the event was the presentation of a charter to the First Lady by the Minister of Women Affairs on behalf of Nigerian women, symbolising a shared commitment to empowerment, inclusion, and sustained national progress.
The Power of 10 Million rally is widely seen as a significant step toward building a coordinated national platform for women aimed at strengthening grassroots mobilisation, enhancing participation in governance, and positioning women as critical partners in shaping Nigeria’s future.
