The 13th edition of the National and 4th International Conference of The Criterion, tagged “Eko Akete 2025” , opens Wednesday, November 13.
The landmark event will take place at Orchid Hotel, Lekki, Lagos, beginning at 10:00 a.m.
This year’s conference, themed “Breaking the Glass Ceiling: Muslim Women Overcoming Economic and Social Challenges,” will convene leading voices, thought leaders, policymakers, scholars, and industry professionals to examine the barriers limiting women’s advancement and to chart actionable pathways for empowering Muslim women to thrive globally.
Speaking on the significance of the event, the Chairman, National Conference Planning Committee, NCPC, Hajia Ibironke Siddqah Ogun (FNVS), emphasized that the Eko Akete 2025 conference would provide participants with practical skills, mentorship opportunities, and exposure to global best practices that would support women in scaling professional and entrepreneurial frontiers.
“We aim to inspire, equip, and connect Muslim women with the resources, networks, and confidence needed to rise beyond limitations. The Criterion has remained consistent in nurturing women of integrity, influence, and impact—this conference reinforces that mission,” Hajia Ogun noted.
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.”
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; master classes 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.
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