The Women Commission of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has called for equal opportunities and greater representation of women in workplace decision-making and national development, urging institutions to create an environment that supports women’s professional growth and leadership.
Mrs Ijeoma Kalu, National Women Coordinator of SSANU, made the call on Wednesday in Abuja at the 2026 SSANU National Women Conference, themed “Healthy Women, Strong Union: Positioning SSANU Women for Leadership and National Relevance.” She said the conference would provide an opportunity to address challenges facing women at work and in society and explore practical ways to improve their welfare and career development.
Speaking at the conference, Kalu said the theme would help participants examine the barriers confronting women and identify ways to strengthen their participation in leadership, decision-making and national development.
“We must continue to advocate for an environment where women are respected, empowered, and given equal opportunities to contribute meaningfully to institutional growth,” she said.
Kalu urged SSANU women to strengthen their unity, build professional networks, promote mentorship and support younger women seeking career advancement.
“As SSANU women, we must remain united, because our strength lies in our collective voice, solidarity and willingness to support one another,” she said.
She noted that women play important roles in university administration, institutional development and the effective running of Nigeria’s university system.
According to her, women’s responsibilities extend beyond their professional duties, as they also serve as mothers, mentors, leaders and nation-builders whose contributions deserve greater recognition.
Kalu commended SSANU’s national leadership for supporting women and recognising their contributions to the association. She also praised zonal and branch women coordinators for their dedication.
She urged participants to apply the lessons from the conference to improve women’s welfare, promote professional growth and strengthen female representation in leadership positions.
“When women are empowered, families are strengthened, workplaces are transformed, communities progress and nations develop,” she said.
Kalu expressed hope that the conference would produce meaningful outcomes, strengthen professional relationships and renew the commitment to advancing women’s interests within SSANU and beyond.
