Alakija urges women to take bold steps to overcome obstacles

Africa’s richest woman by Forbes reckoning, Mrs Folorunso Alakija, has called on women to “rise, fight and push for themselves” in order to overcome factors affecting their growth globally.

Alakija, Vice-Chairman of Famfa Oil, made the call in her keynote address titled “Bold Steps for Big Change” at an exhibition and conference organised by Women in Nigeria (WIN) in Lagos.

A statement by Funmi Okeowo, spokesperson for WIN, said Alakija urged women to take bold steps towards the realisation of their dreams.

According to her, women possess exceptional qualities which stand them in good stead to succeed on all fronts of life.

Alakija urged women to unleash their “unconquerable can-do spirit” to excel in their careers and businesses in spite of the prevailing socio-economic circumstances.

She enjoined participants at the exhibition and conference to network and cross-pollinate ideas with one another so as to maximise the opportunities provided by the events.

Ms Shade Ladipo, Country Director for WEConnect International, the event sponsor, urged women to be more creative and innovative in order to leverage on the benefits of the current economic recession.

She charged government at all levels to match its words with action in its women empowerment programmes.

Highlight of the events, attended by women entrepreneurs and employees of businesses, was the presentation of award of “Amazing Role Model for Women in Business” to Alakija by WIN.