The NBA Women Forum (NBAWF) is a platform from which I have gained immensely—particularly through the meaningful connections it fosters. Fun fact: I met my Partner, Oluwatoyin Asada, at an NBAWF event.
Attending this year’s NBAWF Annual General Conference was deeply enriching. The conversations were bold, timely, and inspiring—reminding us that while progress has been made, much more is required. The time to move from promise to action is now. Here are my key takeaways:
1. Equal Opportunities for All
True progress demands that women have the same access as men—especially in law and leadership. Equal opportunities should not just be an ideal but a practiced reality.
2. Competence and Capacity is Key
One clear message resonated through all the sessions: while advocating for equal opportunities is essential, we must also emphasise competence and capacity. Women should not be given roles or recognition simply to tick diversity boxes, but because they are competent, capable, and prepared. Empowerment must be rooted in merit.
3. Belief is the First Step
Self-doubt is one of the major barriers to progress. Women need to own their space, trust their skills, and rise with confidence.
4. Innate Strength: The Multitasking Advantage
Women naturally manage multiple roles with grace and resilience. This innate ability to multitask is not a burden; it’s a superpower that we must begin to leverage.
5. Leadership Is Not Gendered
Women should be encouraged into leadership—not because they are women, but because they possess the requisite leadership qualities. If women possess the attributes that leadership demands, then they deserve every opportunity to lead, without bias or limitation.
6. Mentorship Matters
Learning from others and uplifting those behind us strengthens our collective progress. Empowerment is multiplied through community, not competition.
7. Speak Up Against Harassment
Sexual harassment is real. Women must be encouraged to speak up and met with empathy, not shame when they do speak up. We should support one another, especially on this sensitive issue. Sexual harassment is a societal issue that demands collective action.
8. Prioritize Mental Health
With the many roles women juggle, mental health must be a priority. A healthy mind is critical to sustainable success.
9. Recognize Socio-Cultural Realities
The unique challenges women face in navigating their roles as wives, mothers, and caregivers alongside their careers must be acknowledged. We must build systems that level the playing field to ensure no woman is left behind.
In all, this conference was a powerful call to action. Gender equity must remain a continuous, intentional pursuit—not just for women, but for all.
Wishing all delegates a safe journey back home.
Warm regards,
Uchenna Ogunedo Akingbade
Partner, Sunesis DLP
Liaison Officer, NBA Lagos In-House and Government Counsel Forum.
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