IWD: Ikenga Abiama Foundation Demands Greater Leadership Roles, Opportunities for Igbo Women

By Olisemeka Obeche

The Ikenga Abiama Dynasty Foundation of Igboland, has praised the African womenfolk, especially those from the Igbo ethnic nation of Nigeria for their pivotal role in shaping a sustainable development.

The foundation in a statement signed by the Founder and Executive Director, Amb. Dr. Uba Iwunwa, stressed that the Pan African organization was particularly impressed with the essential contributions women make as the architects of societal resilience, not just in Igboland, Nigeria or Africa but globally.

The foundation emphasizes that sustainability transcends environmental concerns to encompass economic stability, social justice, and cultural continuity.

“Women across Igbo land are taking the lead in this transformation, implementing innovative practices from regenerative agriculture in the Southeast to sustainable business models in local markets. Their contributions extend into policymaking and academia, where they advocate for clean energy solutions and social reforms that benefit their communities.

Iwunwa observes that
despite vital contributions in the society many women in Africa, Nigeria and Igboland remain sidelined in the decision-making processes.

“When the architects of our future are denied leadership positions, the very foundation of our society becomes precarious,” she stated.
Queen Ugobeze highlights the pressing need for women to be given roles that reflect their significant input into community development and sustainability efforts.

We at the Ikenga Abiama Foundation are calling for immediate actions to address this growing gender imbalance, stating that both the government and traditional institutions must dismantle the patriarchal barriers that hinder women’s leadership.

“We are calling on the Nigerian federal and state governments to take urgent steps to enact legislation to ensure women comprise at least 35% of all appointed and elected positions, viewing such representation as essential to national security and effective governance.

The foundation also advocates for a cultural renaissance in Igboland to allow women equal participation in decision-making, particularly within traditional councils.

“We are also demanding for enhanced economic opportunities, including improved land tenure, access to low-interest credit, and essential digital resources, ensuring that women can scale their businesses effectively”, Iwunwa stressed.