Photo: Some participants at the event
By: Mandy Park
Women leaders and advocates on today Friday, 6th March, renewed calls for greater female participation in governance and national development as distinguished personalities were honoured at the 2026 edition of the Woman of Substance Conference and Awards (WOSCA) held in Lagos.
At the event, ace broadcaster and public affairs analyst, Adaora Onyechere Sydney-Jack, decried the low representation of women in public offices in Nigeria, despite women accounting for nearly half of the country’s population.
Speaking during a keynote session, Onyechere Sydney-Jack said the marginalization of women in decision-making positions undermines Nigeria’s development prospects.
According to her, women constitute between 49 and 50 per cent of Nigeria’s population but remain significantly underrepresented in political leadership and public policy roles.
She stressed that the challenge is not limited to Nigeria but cuts across many African countries, warning that the continent cannot achieve sustainable development while sidelining a large portion of its human capital.
“Africa cannot industrialize, digitize, organize, or globalize while minimizing half of its human capital,” she said.
The broadcaster explained that countries that encourage women’s participation in governance often record stronger economic growth, improved public institutions, and better health and education outcomes.
She cited examples from Scandinavian countries such as Norway, Iceland, Denmark and Sweden, noting that inclusive leadership and strong social policies contributed to their resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The convener of the event, veteran broadcaster and media entrepreneur, Ify Onyegbule, said the Woman of Substance platform was created to recognize women who have demonstrated excellence and leadership across sectors.
She emphasized that supporting women, especially during difficult moments, can transform lives and communities.
“Where a woman is supported in her most vulnerable moment, she doesn’t just survive—she rises,” Onyegbule said.
Drawing from her personal experience after losing her husband, she said timely support from friends and associates helped her rebuild her life and career.
According to her, the initiative has continued to provide mentorship, visibility, and business support for women entrepreneurs and professionals.
“Because when you give a woman opportunity, she gains confidence. When you give her support, she gains strength. And when women gain, they thrive, businesses grow, and communities transform,” she added.
The conference also featured panel discussions and health advocacy sessions addressing issues affecting women.
Medical expert, Dr. Sunday Olowogbayi, delivered a presentation on fibroids, educating participants on symptoms, risk factors and treatment options, while the Managing Director of Nanny Academy, Amara Agbim, spoke on professional caregiving and the growing demand for trained caregivers in Nigeria’s evolving family structure.
Veteran broadcaster Adesuwa Onyenokwe also delivered a session on mentoring young women in the media industry, urging experienced professionals to guide and support the next generation of female journalists and broadcasters.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of Woman of Substance Awards to individuals who have made remarkable contributions in public service, media, business, and community development.
Among those honoured were the Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Shehu Mohammed; veteran broadcaster Bimbo Oloyede; Ambassador Delphine Nwachukwu; Barrister Oluwabukola Teriba; Olori Ranti Ajayi; Dr. Zizi Cardow; Toyin Adesola; Dr. Adaora Onyechere Sydney-Jack; Nonye Nwosu Nweke; Amara Agbim; Barrister Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin; Olori Janet Afolabi; Ambassador Chibuzo Malize Obichukwu; Temitope Adesola Owoeye; Chief (Mrs.) Florence Ogunyamoju; Mrs. Rose Mordi; and Engr. Felicia Nnanna Agubata.
Organizers said the annual conference continues to serve as a platform for celebrating women who have broken barriers while inspiring younger generations to pursue leadership, entrepreneurship, and public service.
Participants at the event also used the occasion to call for stronger policies that would promote gender inclusion in politics, governance, and corporate leadership across Nigeria.
