Engaging private sector in advancing gender equality

In a recent interview on CNBC Africa, Tinuade Awe, the Executive Director of Regulation at the Nigerian Stock Exchange, discussed the theme for this year's International Women's Day, which is 'press for progress.' This theme is in alignment with the World Economic Forum's Global Gender Gap Report findings, which suggest that we are still 200 years away from achieving gender parity. Despite the sobering statistics from the World Economic Forum's 2017 report projecting that it will take 217 years for women to achieve parity in various areas such as economic health and other indicators, Awe highlighted the progress women are making in different fields such as business, the private sector, the corporate world, and creative industries. She urged women not to feel discouraged, emphasizing that there is still a long road ahead. Awe stressed the importance of not becoming complacent just because a few women have succeeded in leadership roles, as true progress will only be achieved when gender parity is realized. Awe also discussed the obstacles hindering women's success in male-dominated business environments, citing cultural attitudes that perpetuate the perception of women in supporting and subordinate roles. She called for women to challenge these prejudices and assert their agency in contributing meaningfully to society and the economy. Awe underscored the role of companies in promoting gender equality by advocating for gender awareness training, ensuring diversity in leadership positions, and implementing policies that support working mothers, such as maternity leave and childcare services. She emphasized the need for companies to publicly penalize violations of policies that discriminate against women. Awe also highlighted the recent initiative by the Nigerian Stock Exchange to raise awareness about gender parity by participating in a global campaign with fifty stock exchanges worldwide. The initiative involved a closing gong ceremony centered around women to commemorate International Women's Day. The event featured panel discussions on the connection between the economy, gender, and business development, as well as the future role of women in various industries. Awe's remarks underscored the importance of engaging the private sector in advancing gender equality and called for a collective effort to drive meaningful change.