Odita Sunday 
Finance Ministry Director Rallies Support for Young Women, Pledges Personal Commitment to Female Youth Conference
By Maryam Aminu
The Director of Special Duties at the Federal Ministry of Finance, Sani-Yusuf Fatima A., has reaffirmed her commitment to the advancement of young women and girls in Nigeria, pledging her personal support for initiatives aimed at empowering the next generation of female leaders.
Fatima made the commitment while receiving a delegation of the Nigeria Female Youths Organization, led by its President, Princess Mimi Peters, during a courtesy visit to the ministry in Abuja ahead of the First National Female Youth Conference 2026.
Although representing the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, the director spoke passionately about the need to nurture, mentor and support young women striving to make meaningful contributions to society, describing them as vital stakeholders in Nigeria’s future.
In what many members of the delegation described as a heartfelt and inspiring interaction, Fatima expressed empathy for the challenges confronting young women in their pursuit of education, leadership and economic independence. She acknowledged the sacrifices made daily by women and girls who continue to break barriers despite social and economic constraints.
The Director emphasized that women who dedicate their time, energy and resources to uplifting others deserve encouragement and support, noting that national development cannot be achieved without deliberate investment in the aspirations and potential of young women.
Drawing from her experience in public service and leadership, she offered motherly guidance to members of the organization, encouraging them to remain focused on their vision, uphold integrity and build institutions capable of creating lasting impact.
She stressed the importance of patience, resilience and consistency, reminding the young leaders that meaningful change often requires persistence and sacrifice.
Fatima further advised the organization to prioritize credibility, accountability and inclusiveness as it expands its activities across the country. She noted that successful youth movements are built not only on passion but also on strong values, transparency and a commitment to service.
Speaking on the proposed First National Female Youth Conference 2026, she described the initiative as timely, particularly at a period when many young people are searching for direction, opportunities and platforms to develop their leadership potential. She observed that gatherings focused on mentorship, financial literacy, entrepreneurship and civic engagement could play a significant role in shaping responsible citizens and future leaders.
The director also expressed her willingness, in her personal capacity, to participate in activities organized by the Nigeria Female Youths Organization, assuring the delegation of her continued encouragement for programmes that seek to uplift women and girls across the country.
Earlier, Princess Mimi Peters briefed the ministry on plans for the conference themed, “Her Voice, Her Future –Nigeria Female Youths Shaping National Action,” which is expected to attract more than 1,000 delegates from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
According to Peters, the conference is designed to strengthen financial literacy, promote leadership development, encourage civic participation and create opportunities for young women to engage with policymakers and development stakeholders on issues affecting their future.
The visit ended on a positive note, with both sides emphasizing the importance of creating more opportunities for young women to learn, lead and contribute to national development, as the organization intensifies preparations for the landmark conference scheduled to hold in Abuja from August 6 to 8, 2026.
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