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Underutilising women’s capacity hurts Nigeria’s growth, JCI Aso president warns
**Unlocking Nigeria's Potential: JCI Aso President Warns of Underutilised Women's Capacity**
As Nigeria celebrates International Women's Day, the President of Junior Chamber International (JCI) Aso, Peter Emmanuel Yilbiem, has sounded a warning that the country is failing to harness the full potential of its women. Speaking at the JCI Aso March General Assembly in Abuja, Yilbiem lamented that women in Nigeria are often restricted to certain roles and opportunities, thereby limiting their contributions to national growth.
Yilbiem pointed out that women remain one of the most underutilised resources globally, and that it's imperative for the country to tap into the value of womanhood. He noted that JCI's leadership development initiatives are producing capable individuals who can occupy top leadership positions, citing notable members like former Delta State governor, Emmanuel Uduaghan, and Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, Simbi Wabote, as examples of the organisation's impact.
To young women, Yilbiem offered words of encouragement, urging them to build confidence and pursue leadership roles. He reminded them that sometimes, the best person for the job is a woman who is ready to take on the challenge with courage and confidence.
Also speaking at the event was financial expert and founder of MTWI Services, Ifeoluwa Adegoke. Adegoke cautioned women entrepreneurs against the temptation of quick profits, advising them to think long-term and invest in education, financial literacy, and value creation in the marketplace. She stressed the importance of mentoring and building ecosystems that enable others to grow.
The messages from both Yilbiem and Adegoke are timely reminders of the crucial role women play in Nigeria's economic and social development. By investing in women's education, empowerment, and leadership development, Nigeria can unlock its full potential and achieve sustainable growth. As the country continues to grapple with challenges like poverty, inequality, and economic stagnation, it's clear that tapping into the capacity of its women will be a vital step towards a brighter future.
**Spread the word: Let's give women in Nigeria the opportunities they deserve to contribute to the country's growth and development.**