The President Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), Dr Safiyyah Hassan Shaibu has been honoured with the prestigious Leading Emerging Women Leader in Africa Award at the 10th Anniversary Celebration of the Focus Africa Series in recognition of her outstanding leadership, advocacy for women and commitment to community development.
A statement signed by Captain Jemilah Jimoh LO NAOWA said the award was presented during the landmark event which brought together policymakers, development experts, women leaders and stakeholders from across Africa to deliberate on strategies for advancing women’s leadership and sustainable development across the continent.
Following her award presentation Dr. Shaibu delivered a keynote lecture titled, “From the Home Front to the Boardroom: How Women’s Resilience Strengthens Families and Communities Across the World,” where she emphasized the critical role women play in building resilient families, strong communities and prosperous nations. Speaking to participants, the NAOWA President described resilience as a defining attribute that enables women to overcome challenges while continuing to nurture families, support communities and excel in leadership positions.
Drawing from her experiences as a military officer’s wife and a professional, Dr. Shaibu highlighted the unique sacrifices and responsibilities borne by women in military communities, noting that their ability to manage families during deployments and periods of uncertainty develops leadership qualities that are invaluable in both public and private sectors. “The home is not separate from leadership; it is where leadership is first nurtured and developed,” she stated.
She stressed that empowering women yields far-reaching benefits for society, adding that strong women contribute significantly to stable families, thriving communities and national development. She also reaffirmed NAOWA’s commitment to promoting the welfare and empowerment of women and families through programmes focused on education, healthcare, entrepreneurship and social support within military communities.
While acknowledging the progress made in advancing women’s participation in leadership, Dr. Shaibu noted that many women still face challenges, including balancing professional and family responsibilities, limited opportunities and inadequate recognition for their contributions. She therefore called for increased investment in mentorship programmes, inclusive policies and leadership platforms that enable women to reach their full potential. “As we look toward the future, there must be a conscious effort to recognize and value the strength that women bring from the home front into leadership spaces,” she said.
She concluded by urging governments, institutions and stakeholders across Africa to continue investing in women as catalysts for sustainable development, emphasizing that the continent’s future is being shaped by resilient, visionary and determined women. Dr. Shaibu rounded off her lecture with the quote: “If you empower a man, you empower an individual, but if you empower a woman, you empower a nation.”
The recognition of Dr. Safiyyah Hassan Shaibu with the Leading Emerging Women Leader in Africa Award underscores her growing influence as a champion of women’s empowerment, family development and transformational leadership across Africa.
