Halima Dangote on changing the narrative on women in Nigeria

Halima Dangote, the Executive Director of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, recently spoke at the 59th Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association about the pressing issues facing young girls and women in Nigeria. In a candid interview with CNBC Africa's Christy Cole, Dangote highlighted the entrenched societal norms and cultural practices that continue to marginalize women in the country. Dangote began by reflecting on the speech delivered by a female Chief Justice at the conference, where the Chief Justice likened the challenges faced by women to a leaking pipe. She emphasized that this leak disproportionately affects women and girls, pointing to deep-rooted biases that favor boys over girls in education and opportunities. Dangote shared a personal anecdote from her village, where she observed a preference for educating boys over girls, perpetuating a cycle of gender inequality. The key theme of Dangote's message was the urgent need to change the narrative surrounding women in Nigeria. She stressed that addressing gender disparities requires a multifaceted approach that goes beyond legal reforms. Dangote underscored the importance of challenging cultural and social barriers that limit women's potential, calling for a shift in mindset within Nigerian society. Three key points emerged from Dangote's passionate advocacy for women's empowerment: 1. **Cultural and Social Transformation:** Dangote argued that true progress in gender equality necessitates a reexamination of cultural and social norms. She highlighted the conflation of religion and culture as a barrier to women's advancement, urging a nuanced understanding of religious teachings to empower women. 2. **Educational Empowerment:** Dangote emphasized the critical role of education in reshaping societal perceptions of women. By promoting literacy and education for girls, she believes that long-standing stereotypes can be challenged, leading to greater opportunities for women in various fields. 3. **Role of Religion in Women's Empowerment:** Drawing on her Muslim faith, Dangote debunked misconceptions about women's roles in society. She cited the example of the first woman to embrace Islam, a successful businesswoman who defied gender norms in a male-dominated era. Dangote highlighted the need to reinterpret religious texts to support women's agency and autonomy. In a poignant moment during the interview, Dangote reflected on the intersection of culture and religion in shaping women's experiences. She acknowledged her own journey in navigating societal expectations and striving for gender equality. Dangote challenged Nigerians to reassess the underlying beliefs that constrain women's progress, urging a collective effort to dismantle barriers to gender equality. As Nigeria grapples with deep-seated gender inequalities, Halima Dangote's call for a cultural shift serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of empowering women. By challenging ingrained biases and advocating for systemic change, Dangote is at the forefront of a burgeoning movement to redefine the role of women in Nigerian society.