Dr. Dauda Lawal Remarks on Gender Equality

Dr. Dauda Lawal is the governor of Zamfara State, elected in 2023 under the PDP. A former banker, he previously served as First Bank’s executive director. Women’s empowerment, gender equality, and education are crucial for Nigeria’s progress. Collaboration between governments and organizations is essential to create policies that support women’s opportunities and participation.

Scott Douglas Jacobsen: What would you take away as the big message of these thirty years of progress for Nigeria and the world as a whole?

Dr. Dauda Lawal: First of all, let me say that it has been a wonderful opportunity to be here, to hear from primary sources—all the women who participated in this program—and to learn about what they went through to get to where they are today. It is truly inspiring. The key takeaway here is that we still have a long way to go in terms of women’s empowerment, gender equality, and the way forward for Nigeria.

Jacobsen: Do you believe that many of the advances for women must be undertaken comprehensively as a network?

Laval: No. It has to be holistic and highly comprehensive. There is a need for collaboration between subnational governments, the federal government, and international organizations to fully understand women’s challenges and develop effective policies for gender equality.

Jacobsen: In your opinion, what areas should Nigeria focus on most—economics and political participation?

Laval: Education is key because one must be educated to fully understand opportunities and challenges, even in business.

Jacobsen: Regarding the next generation, what was your biggest takeaway from their representation?

Don’t like ads? Become a supporter and enjoy The Good Men Project ad free

Laval: I believe that focusing on education and empowerment would go a long way toward creating meaningful change.

Jacobsen: For the general public of Nigeria, what is the big message?

Laval: I think the big message is: let’s give women a chance—whether in government, economic activities, or social life. If we can do that, it will truly transform the fortunes of women in Nigeria.

Jacobsen: Sir, I appreciate your time.

Laval: Thank you.

—

Scott Douglas Jacobsen is the publisher of In-Sight Publishing (ISBN: 978-1-0692343) and Editor-in-Chief of In-Sight: Interviews (ISSN: 2369-6885). He writes for The Good Men Project, International Policy Digest (ISSN: 2332–9416), The Humanist (Print: ISSN 0018-7399; Online: ISSN 2163-3576), Basic Income Earth Network (UK Registered Charity 1177066), A Further Inquiry, and other media. He is a member in good standing of numerous media organizations.