The Kwara State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing gender equality, economic empowerment, and the protection of women's rights across the state.

Hauwa Nuru, Commissioner for Finance, made the pledge during her keynote address at the FinXperience 2.0 conference held at the University of Ilorin. The event, themed "Women in Finance: Breaking Barriers and Promoting Gender Equality," convened finance students, industry experts, and stakeholders to discuss women's roles in the financial sector.

Commissioner Nuru highlighted the progress Kwara State has achieved under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq's leadership in creating an enabling environment for women's advancement. She underscored the state's policies and appointments that prioritise gender equality, demonstrating its dedication to inclusion.

A statement by Babatunde Toyin, the Ministry's Press Secretary quoted her saying, "Kwara State is proud to witness a dynamic wave of female leadership and collaboration, driving transformation from the grassroots to the corridors of power."

She assured the finance students and the people of Kwara State that the current administration would continue to create pathways for women to thrive, noting that the strength of every thriving society is anchored on the unity, resilience, and active participation of its women.?

The Commissioner, however, commended Governor Abdulrazaq's visionary leadership, which had positioned Kwara State as a beacon of gender inclusion.

In 2019, the State made history by appointing a female-majority cabinet, with women constituting majority of the cabinet members. Furthermore, in 2021, the Gender Composition Law was enacted, mandating at least 35% representation of women in all public sector appointments.?

The Commissioner also highlighted notable appointments that exemplified the State's commitment to female leadership in finance, including the appointment of Shade Omoniyi as the first female Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Internal Revenue Service (KWIRS) and Nuru's appointment as the Commissioner for Finance.?

In recognition of her contributions to financial management and women's empowerment in the State, Nuru was honoured with the Award of Excellence by the Finance Students Association at the University of Ilorin.?