Every March, Women’s Month brings an outpouring of empowerment campaigns, social media discussions, and corporate pledges.
Yet, year after year, many Nigerian women remain stuck in the same cycles of economic dependency, limited opportunities, and societal constraints.
The conversation around empowerment has largely focused on visibility and inclusion, but real empowerment runs deeper—it starts with mindset and is sustained by skill development.
Too often, women are encouraged to “break barriers” without being given the tools to do so effectively. Many are conditioned to aspire to financial security through external means—whether through marriage, inheritance, or institutional support—rather than viewing wealth-building as a personal responsibility.
True empowerment comes when women see financial independence as not just desirable but as essential, just as men do.
This is not about competition; it is about building a life of self-sufficiency, dignity, and meaningful contribution to society.
The Mindset Shift: Seeing Financial Independence as a Necessity, Not an Option
From an early age, many Nigerian women are raised with limiting beliefs about wealth and success. They are taught to seek stability rather than leadership, to manage rather than create, and to rely on others rather than take charge of their own financial destinies.
While men are encouraged to chase ambition and build wealth, women are often expected to be content with what is provided for them.
This mindset manifests in many ways:
- Some women see entrepreneurship as a survival strategy rather than a path to wealth creation.
- Others hesitate to negotiate for better salaries or promotions, fearing they will be perceived as “too aggressive.”
- Many lack confidence in financial literacy, investment, and wealth-building because these conversations have traditionally been male-dominated.
Changing this narrative starts with teaching women to view financial independence as a necessity. Not because they must out-earn men, but because true security and freedom come from having control over one’s financial future.
Women should not just participate in the economy; they should thrive in it, taking ownership of businesses, investments, and leadership roles with confidence.
Upskilling: Turning Ambition Into Capability
Having the right mindset is just the beginning—real empowerment requires skill development. Women must be equipped with practical, high-value skills that enable them to compete in today’s evolving economy.
Whether in business, technology, finance, or creative industries, skill acquisition should be prioritized as a key driver of economic independence.
Key areas where upskilling can make a difference include:
- Digital & Tech Skills: The world is increasingly digital, and opportunities in technology, coding, digital marketing, and e-commerce are vast. Women must actively engage in these spaces.
- Financial Literacy & Investment: Understanding money, savings, investments, and wealth creation should not be optional. Every woman should be equipped to make informed financial decisions.
- Negotiation & Business Strategy: Whether employed or self-employed, women must develop strong negotiation skills to demand fair pay, close business deals, and establish profitable ventures.
- Leadership & Decision-Making: Women must be confident in occupying leadership positions, making strategic decisions, and shaping policies that affect their industries.
The goal is not just to have more women in business or leadership for the sake of representation but to ensure they are equipped with the competence, resilience, and strategies to sustain long-term success.
Empowerment Beyond Gender: Building Strong, Self-Sufficient Women
The conversation around women’s empowerment should move beyond symbolic representation to real transformation. It should not be about proving a point or competing with men; it should be about enabling women to create wealth, contribute meaningfully to society, and secure their futures on their own terms.
Financial independence is not a feminist slogan—it is a necessity for any individual seeking a fulfilling life. Every woman should desire and work toward financial stability, not because society expects it, but because it grants her freedom, security, and choice.
As we reflect on another Women’s Month, the focus must shift from performative advocacy to practical action.
Let’s encourage more women to upskill, invest in themselves, and take control of their financial destinies. Because true empowerment is not given—it is built, step by step, through knowledge, mindset shifts, and the courage to act.
*Tofunmi Akinseye, CEO and Publisher of Savvy Media Africa, is a highly accomplished professional in the media and communications field.
