• As Lagos deputy gov, Fountain VC, ex-NAHCON chair, others to grace Thursday’s formal opening
The much-anticipated 13th National and 4th International Conference of The Criterion (Al-Furqan), an organisation of Muslim women professionals and entrepreneurs, will officially commence on Wednesday, November 13, at Orchid Hotel, Lekki, Lagos, by 10:00 a.m.
Delegates from across Nigeria have begun arriving for the 5-day event themed “Breaking the Glass Ceiling: Muslim Women Overcoming Economic and Social Challenges.”
The conference will bring together thought leaders, policymakers, scholars, and industry experts to explore strategies for dismantling systemic barriers and empowering Muslim women in professional and socio-economic spaces.
At a pre-event press briefing, Chairperson of the National Conference Planning Committee (NCPC), Hajia Ibironke Siddqah Ogun (FNVS), said the Eko Akete 2025 conference will equip participants with practical skills, mentorship, and global best practices.
“Our goal is to inspire and connect Muslim women with the tools and networks needed to thrive. The Criterion continues to nurture women of integrity, influence, and impact,” she said.
The leadership of The Criterion during the pre-event press briefing held today, in preparation for the arrival of delegates for the Eko Akete 2025 Conference
The formal opening will take place on Thursday, November 13, with the Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, expected to grace the occasion alongside other eminent personalities.
The event will feature Prof. (Mrs.) Olayinka Ramota Karim, Vice Chancellor of Fountain University, Osogbo, as the guest speaker. Former NAHCON Chairman, Ustaz Zikrullah Olakunle Hassan, will chair the opening session, while Alhaji Rafiu Adisa Ebiti, Deputy President I of MUSWEN, and Dr. Ridwan Jamiu, Chief Imam of Lekki Central Mosque, are also expected to be in attendance.
The Chief Host of the conference and the International Amirah of the Conference, Alhaja Medina Akanni described the conference as “a timely platform for reflection, reawakening, and re-strategizing to strengthen the role of Muslim women in nation-building and global development.”
The leadership of The Criterion during the pre-event press briefing held today, in preparation for the arrival of delegates for the Eko Akete 2025 Conference
Alhaja Akanni who is also the Deputy Registrar of the Supreme Court of Nigeria added further: “At a time when economic pressure, social stereotypes, and workplace limitations continue to restrict women’s potential, this conference serves as a beacon of hope and a rallying point for women determined to break barriers while upholding Islamic values,” she stated.
Designed to address the concerns of all muslim ladies across different socio-economic strata, the conference will feature keynote addresses by renowned female leaders and scholars; panel sessions with diverse professionals across sectors; masterclasses on leadership, business scaling, technology, finance, and work-life integration; interactive sessions, exhibitions, and networking opportunities as well as spiritual reflections and value-based mentoring sessions
The Criterion was founded as a platform for Muslim women committed to personal development, professional excellence, community service, and Islamic ethics.
The Criterion (Al-Furqan) has consistently advanced the empowerment of women through education, advocacy, humanitarian initiatives, capacity development, and faith-based leadership training.
With active Usrah branches or local cells across Nigeria and growing international presence, the association continues to influence policies, inspire future leaders, and nurture women who uphold moral uprightness while excelling in diverse fields.
E-signed
Alhaja Ibironke Siddiqah, FNVS
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