Ace broadcaster Dr. Adaora Onyechere Sydney-Jack has lamented the poor representation of women in Nigeria’s public offices, despite women constituting 49 to 50 per cent of the country’s population. 

She said this disparity undermines Nigeria’s development potential.

Onyechere Sydney-Jack made the comment at the Woman of Substance Conference and Awards (WOSCA) 2026, a platform convened by veteran broadcaster Chief Ify Onyegbule to celebrate women of excellence, influence, and impact across diverse sectors. The event, with the theme: “Give to gain: The power of reciprocity and support,” was held on Friday, March 6, 2026, in Lagos. 

According to Onyechere Sydney-Jack, women’s exclusion is not limited to Nigeria but extends to other African countries. She warned that the continent will continue to face developmental challenges if it excludes nearly half of its human capital from public policy and leadership roles.

She said: “Africa cannot industrialize, digitize, organize, or globalize while minimizing half of its human capital.”

She added that a society that includes women sees its GDP rise, government performance improve, corruption decline, and health and education outcomes improve across generations.

Drawing examples from Scandinavian countries such as Norway, Iceland, Denmark, and Sweden, she noted that they experienced minimal virus transmission during the COVID-19 pandemic because they were governed by women who prioritised healthcare funding.

The convener, Chief Ify Onyegbule, emphasised the transformative power of support for women: “Where a woman is supported in her most vulnerable moment, she doesn’t just survive—she rises.”

Citing her personal experience of losing her husband and receiving decisive support that helped her thrive, Chief Ify said the Woman of Substance initiative has been extending such support to women’s businesses and amplifying their voices. “Because when you give a woman opportunity, she gains confidence. When you give her support, she gains strength. And when women gain, I tell you, they thrive, businesses grow, and communities transform.”

Other speakers at the event included Dr. Sunday Olowogbayi, who spoke on understanding fibroids and every woman’s risk; Mrs. Amara Agbim, MD of Nanny Academy, who spoke on caregiving; and Mrs. Adesuwa Onyenokwe, who spoke on raising the next generation of female leaders in broadcasting.

The highlight of the event was the recognition of outstanding personalities who have made significant impacts in their fields. Awardees included veteran broadcaster Bimbo Oloyede; Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed (FRSC); Amb. Delphine Nwachukwu; Barr. Oluwabukola Teriba; Olori Ranti Ajayi; Dr. Zizi Cardow; Ms. Toyin Adesola; Dr. Adaora Onyechere Sydney-Jack; Nonye Nwosu Nweke; Mrs. Amara Agbim; Barr. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin; Olori Janet Afolabi; Amb. Chibuzo Malize Obichukwu; Temitope Adesola Owoeye; Chief (Mrs.) Florence Ogunyamoju; Mrs. Rose Mordi; and Engr. Felicia Nnanna Agubata.