In this Q&A, Abosede George-Organ, Founder of WILAN Global, shares the inspiration behind WILAN, the significance of their partnership with WomenLift Health, and why investing in women’s leadership, especially in health, is key to building more inclusive and effective systems.
Can you tell us about WILAN and its mission to advance women in leadership in Nigeria?
WILAN, Women in Leadership Advancement Network, was born out of a personal realisation that women in Nigeria face systemic barriers to leadership. Our mission is to equip women with the skills, support, and platforms they need to lead confidently across political, economic, and public life. Through training, mentorship, policy advocacy, and media engagement, we are building a strong pipeline of women who are ready to step into decision-making roles.
Why is this partnership with WomenLift Health important to your mission? What excites you most about the partnership and the launch of the inaugural Leadership Journey in Nigeria?
This partnership with WomenLift Health aligns perfectly with our mission at WILAN of advancing gender-balanced leadership in critical sectors. What excites me most is the opportunity to localise a globally proven model and make it contextually relevant for Nigerian women, especially in the health sector. It’s about creating a safe, empowering space for women to grow as leaders while addressing the unique challenges they face in our national and international health landscape.
What unique challenges do women leaders face in the health sector in Nigeria?
Women dominate frontline healthcare roles in Nigeria, yet they are grossly underrepresented in leadership. They face challenges ranging from unconscious bias and limited access to leadership development, to balancing professional demands with cultural expectations. Additionally, the lack of mentorship and institutional support structures makes it even harder for women to rise to executive decision-making roles in health.
You’ve worked across multiple sectors and have seen firsthand the effects of women being excluded from decision-making processes. Can you share some examples of how this exclusion has affected health outcomes in Nigeria?
When women are excluded from leadership, health policies often lack the nuance required to address women’s real-world needs. For instance, during my time working with government and development partners, I observed how maternal health programs often failed to account for local realities like transportation, safety, and economic barriers simply because women weren’t at the policy table. We miss critical insights when decision-making isn’t inclusive.
Why is it important to invest in leadership development for women in Nigeria, particularly in health and other critical sectors?
It is important because leadership determines impact. Studies show that organisations with gender-diverse leadership are more effective, equitable, and sustainable. In sectors like health, where women make up most of the workforce, it’s only logical and just to ensure they also lead. Investing in their development is not just a gender issue; it’s a development imperative. When women lead, everyone benefits.
As a leader yourself, what message would you like to share with women leaders who are aspiring to create transformative change in their fields?
You don’t have to wait for permission to lead. Your experiences, voice, and perspective matter. Stay curious, stay committed, and surround yourself with people who believe in your vision. Leadership isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about having the courage to ask bold questions and act. Lead from where you are, and lift others as you rise.
