26/05/2026
CLTC Conference Inspires Young Women to Influence Change and Drive Impact
The Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre (CLTC) recently hosted the third edition of the Young Women Leadership Conference in Abuja, reaffirming its commitment to empowering young women as catalysts for national development.
The conference, themed “Innovate, Influence, Impact: Accelerating Young Women’s Roles in National Development,” brought together young women, policymakers, development partners, and industry leaders to inspire leadership, entrepreneurship, and active civic participation.
Speaking at the event, the Director General of CLTC, Rinsola Abiola, described innovation and influence as essential tools for transformative leadership rather than mere buzzwords. She noted that Nigeria’s current challenges demand creative thinking, resilience, and courageous leadership, adding that young women are strategically positioned to contribute meaningfully to national progress.
According to her, the conference was designed to equip participants with practical knowledge, mentorship opportunities, and financial support to strengthen their businesses and leadership aspirations. She disclosed that more than 1,500 young women have benefited from the initiative over the past two years through access to skills development, networking opportunities, confidence-building, and entrepreneurial support.
Also speaking at the conference, the Special Adviser to the President on Policy Coordination, Hadiza Bala Usman, emphasized the significance of the conference theme, describing it as one that aligns closely with national development priorities. She urged young women to actively participate in governance and nation-building by leveraging competence, credibility, and leadership to influence positive outcomes in society.
The conference featured notable dignitaries, including the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency, Lanre Onilu, and the Director-General of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, Charles Odii.
In her remarks, the Director of Operations and Rescue Department, Alero Abokwara-Adjekota, stressed the need to empower women in order to build a stronger nation. She highlighted the unique strengths of women, particularly their ability to multitask and contribute effectively across different sectors of society.
The event attracted a wide range of stakeholders, including government officials, private sector representatives, development partners, and young women from across the country, who participated both physically and virtually.
