Accelerating Action Towards Gender Equality

Photo by Tope A. Asokere on Pexels

By Simbiat Amzat

Women are the true architects of society. Every International Women’s Day serves as a powerful reminder of the need to empower women, move beyond stereotypes, and take concrete steps toward building a more equitable world.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, we acknowledge the progress made over the years toward gender equality — however slow and uneven it may have been. Significant gender disparities persist across many parts of the world, and these gaps continue to hinder the social, economic, and political advancement of nations.

These disparities manifest in barriers to education, employment, healthcare, leadership, and access to resources — all of which have long limited women’s opportunities for growth and, by extension, national development.

Why do we need to accelerate action toward gender equality?

For a nation to experience all-round growth and development, women must have equal access to education, employment, and leadership opportunities — because of the powerful multiplier effect they bring. When the gender gap in the workforce is closed, the economy thrives significantly.

Empowering women through education, fair wages, and economic opportunities is a critical step in breaking the cycle of poverty and creating lasting benefits for entire communities. Equal access not only empowers individual women but also strengthens societies and fuels national progress.

Achieving gender equality is a global priority, as enshrined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. To eliminate inequality, women must be equally represented in leadership positions across politics, business, and other sectors. Ensuring their full participation in all areas of society leads to healthier families and better economic outcomes, making it a vital investment in our collective future.

To drive this point home, we must continue to highlight the stories of women who have broken barriers. Their journeys serve as a source of inspiration and proof of what’s possible when women are supported and empowered. Icons such as Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti — a pioneering Nigerian activist who championed women’s rights and education; Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala — the first woman and first African to lead the World Trade Organization; and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie — a globally renowned Nigerian author and outspoken advocate for women’s rights, are shining examples of what women can achieve when given the opportunity.

These trailblazers have paved the way for future generations of Nigerian women to pursue their dreams without limits.

However, we cannot find solutions without first addressing the existing barriers, such as gender discrimination, unequal pay, limited access to leadership roles, and restrictive societal expectations.

Some key strategies to overcome these challenges include:

• Mentorship and Role Models: Mentorship plays a crucial role in empowering women and girls by offering guidance, support, and inspiration. By investing in mentorship programs and celebrating female role models, we foster a society where women have equal opportunities to succeed.

• Digital Innovation: Technology is a game-changer in the fight for gender equality. Digital tools can bridge gender gaps by giving women access to education, job opportunities, and platforms to amplify their voices and share their stories.

• Government and Policy Support: Policymakers have a vital role to play. Legal reforms, advocacy, and investments in women-centered initiatives are essential for progress. Policies such as paid parental leave, flexible work arrangements, and equal pay laws can help level the playing field. Furthermore, targeted educational and job-training programs can help bridge the skills gap and boost women’s participation in the workforce.

At Shades of Us, we believe that achieving gender equality requires a collective effort from individuals, organizations, and governments alike. By working together, we can create a more just and inclusive world where women and girls are empowered to reach their full potential.