In a significant move reflecting his administration's commitment to gender equity and empowerment, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Benjamins-Laniyi as the new Director General of the Women Centre. This appointment, announced on May 15, 2026, is part of a broader strategy to enhance women's participation in governance and to address pressing issues affecting women in Nigeria. The new governing council, which will support the Women Centre's initiatives, is also set to play a crucial role in shaping policies that affect half of Nigeria's population.
Benjamins-Laniyi, a well-respected figure in women's advocacy and development, is expected to lead the Women Centre in implementing programs designed to empower women economically, socially, and politically. The centre has historically played a pivotal role in promoting women's rights and addressing gender-based violence, and the appointment marks a renewed commitment to these objectives under the Tinubu administration. The new governing council, announced concurrently with her appointment, includes distinguished professionals from various sectors, indicating a strategic approach to harness diverse expertise in tackling the challenges faced by women in Nigeria.
The background to this appointment is rooted in Nigeria's ongoing struggle with gender inequality.