Nigeria’s Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, will headline the 2026 Handshake Summit & Awards in New York on March 10, bringing together global leaders to advance gender equality and women’s leadership.
Organised by ConcordeApp in partnership with the Semaform Foundation, the summit aligns with UN Women and the 70th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women. This year’s theme, “Advancing Women’s Influence in a Changing World,” focuses on gender equity, health, and community leadership.
Speaking on Nigeria’s participation, Chaste Inegbedion said: “When Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim sits in that room, she brings the weight of policy and the voice of millions of Nigerian women who deserve to be seen on the global stage.”
He added: “Sustainable development must include menstrual equity and economic inclusion. You cannot save the planet if you ignore the health and dignity of half the population.”
Award presenter Prince Ero Ibhafidon said: “Recognising these trailblazers validates the human residue of leadership that persists in an increasingly automated world.”
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Honouree Hawa Taylor Kamara Diallo added: “This summit is a crucial platform to ensure women’s leadership remains at the forefront of sustainable development and humanitarian efforts.”
Chaired by Professor Olufolake AbdulRazaq, First Lady of Kwara State, the summit will feature a keynote by Crystal Renouf and a panel on “AI-Driven Climate Leadership and Women’s Prosperity.”
Other honourees include Ngozi Abeni Adeleke, DCP Oki Emsen Rita Oyintare, Tolani Alli, Dr Kingsley Ighobor, and Mamotake Matekane. The event is supported by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs Nigeria, Helpline Foundation, and IBTK Foundation.
Delegates will explore gender equity, climate leadership, and inclusive development, reinforcing women’s critical role in advancing rights and sustainable development globally.
