The special adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Policy and Coordination, Hadiza Bala Usman, Monday stated the critical role of communication in shaping public policy outcomes and dismantling systemic barriers facing women.
Usman said at the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) 1st International Women’s Day celebration, themed; “Communicate to balance: Gain Equity, Empower Women,” that while policies aimed at empowering women continue to expand, their impact remains limited without effective communication to stakeholders.
She added that initiatives must go beyond documentation to practical understanding among citizens
She pointed to persistent gender gaps in education, finance, and workforce participation, noting that barriers such as cultural norms, limited financial access, and workplace challenges continue to hinder women’s progress.
She said effective communication can serve as a tool not only for information dissemination but also for addressing systemic inequalities.
She further advocated for a shift from symbolic campaigns to structural reforms, while calling on communication professionals to highlight real barriers and promote policy solutions.
Data-backed storytelling, she noted, is essential to demonstrating the economic and social benefits of gender equity.
