Government advocates inclusion as tool for economic prosperity

The Special Adviser to the President on Ease of Doing Business, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, has said inclusion is an important tool, which must be leveraged to transform the economy to deliver prosperity for the country.

Oduwole described inclusion as a practice or policy of providing equal access to opportunities and resources for people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalised, such as those who have physical or intellectual disabilities and members of other minority groups.

She stated this yesterday at the Women in Business luncheon series organised by the Franco-Nigeria Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) in partnership with Zenith Bank plc.

She said organizations need to leverage its key resources in inclusion to achieve growth at all levels.

Commissioner for Commerce, Corporative, Trade and Investment, Lagos, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, said it will take 300 distinct years to close the gender equality gap, saying it takes all members included to generate inclusion in the society.

She said Lagos is not an economic part of Nigeria but a diverse city of opportunities. According to her, in recent years Lagos has established the barriers where women entrepreneurs can thrive. She said the success stories that emanate from Lagos include inclusion.

Ambrose-Medebem said when women lead, society thrives, just as she advocates the inclusion of women in all activities in society.

Founder/Executive Vice Chairman, Emerging Africa, Dr. Toyin Sanni, said driving sustainable development through inclusive business practices includes opportunities involving women’s inclusion.

She said by embracing inclusion, businesses not only ensure diverse perspectives and innovation but inclusion improves employee engagement and enhances the reputation of the business and brand enhancement.

Executive Director, Zenith Bank Plc, Adobi Nwapa, said women are constantly redefining the scope of businesses, stating that there is no doubt these women challenge the status quo and excel in every environment they find themselves in.

She said celebrating diversity is another key thing in businesses, stating that the bank lives towards empowering women in all spheres of life.

Consul General of France, Laurent Favier, said the equality of women to men stands as a goal to success. It promotes good governance, stating that France is making significant progress on gender parity.