The Women for Liberty Conference 2025 (WFLC25), held in Ibadan, Nigeria on December 11-12, 2025, convened over 200 women leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers and social innovators for a transformative conversation on freedom, inclusion and human dignity. Organized by Women for Liberty Africa (WFLA) in partnership with Atlas Network, the United States, the conference reaffirmed the principle that societies thrive when women are free, respected, and empowered to lead.
Beginning with cultural performances that reflected shared identity and resilience, the conference set a tone that respected the dignity of women's voices and lived experiences. In her welcome address, Lillian David Sy, Founder and CEO of Women for Liberty Africa, emphasized that freedom is inseparable from dignity, urging participants to see women not only as beneficiaries of development, but as capable architects of sustainable social and economic progress.
Discussions throughout the conference focused on restoring agency for women in governance, enterprise and community life. A key panel on “Policy by women, for women” underlined the moral and practical need for women's participation in policy making, highlighting how inclusive policies affirm the dignity of women by recognizing them as decision-makers rather than passive recipients.
The panel on Digital Tools for Change expanded the conversation on how technology can democratize access to information and amplify women's voices. During the session, Oluwatobi Shitta emphasized that digital tools are not mere tools of convenience but enablers of dignity and participation. She highlighted how the strategic use of social media, digital storytelling and data-driven advocacy empowers women to control their own narratives, challenge stereotypes, organize communities and engage policy makers – thereby ensuring that women are visible and influential in the public discussion.
A central practical highlight of WFLC25 was the Community Project Design session led by Lillian David C, where participants were guided through the fundamentals of turning ideas into impactful initiatives. Emphasizing the business plan as a tool of dignity and independence, she stressed the importance of clarity of purpose, sustainability, budget and execution in building women-led projects that attract funding and endure over time.
The keynote sessions further deepened the human-centred message of the conference. Oluwakemi Irinoye spoke on Profit with Purpose, redefining entrepreneurship as a path to self-reliance and community upliftment. Ronke Giwa challenged women to embrace innovation as an act of independence, while Chioma Fakorede's keynote address on women's mental health established emotional well-being as a fundamental human right and the foundation of effective leadership.
A defining highlight of the conference was The Innovation Hub pitch session, where women presented independence-driven projects and businesses to donors, mentors and partners. Many participants emerged as grant and support winners, receiving funding opportunities, mentorship and strategic partnerships – demonstrating the conference's commitment to dignity through action.
The conference concluded with a special dinner and awards night held at the Golden Tulip Hotel, Ibadan, presided over by Mr. Akeem Agbaje, a respected civic leader. The evening celebrated excellence, courage and service, while also recognizing the vital role of partners and supporters. Highlighting the private sector's commitment to advancing women's independence, leadership and human dignity, CraigExplore was honored as the star sponsor of the Dinner & Awards Night. The event highlighted the impact of Women for Liberty Africa and presented awards recognizing individuals and organizations making meaningful contributions to freedom-focused development.
Overall, WFLC25 stands as a powerful declaration that dignity thrives where freedom is protected and women are equipped with voice, skills and resources. By combining policy dialogue, digital empowerment, structured business planning and direct investment in women's ideas, the conference advanced a compelling vision of an Africa where women are free to lead, create and live with dignity.
