Kano HR Fusion: Stakeholders support inclusive hiring to increase women’s participation in the workforce

From left: Taofeekat Abdulrazaq Awoyinka, HR professional; Mairo Jibrin Tukura, Human Resources Manager, Kano Electricity Distribution PLC; Oladoyin Kolawole, Chief Strategy Officer, Jobberman; Felicia Ufwil, human resources generalist; Jaiyeola Festus, HR/Administrative Manager at Nigerian Spinners & Dyers Limited at the event

Jobberman, in collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation, highlighted the need for greater participation of women in the workforce to strengthen Kano State’s growing service economy.

The call was made during the Kano HR Fusion held at Bristol Hotel Kano, where employers, HR professionals, entrepreneurs and workforce leaders discussed strategies to promote inclusive hiring practices across all key sectors.

The event focused on developing opportunities in healthcare support services, education, business and retail administration, hospitality, office administration and customer service.

The discussions also highlighted the need to create pathways for persons with disabilities (PWDs), internally displaced persons (IDPs) and women returning to work after leaving care gaps.

Speaking at the event, Jobberman Country Programs Manager, Olamide Adeyeye, said Africa’s young population represents an important opportunity to reshape the continent’s economic future through inclusive employment.

He urged stakeholders to prioritize opportunities for youth, especially women, stressing that inclusive workforce policies could positively transform Kano’s economic landscape.

Delivering a keynote address titled “Unlocking women’s potential for economic growth”, Mairo Tukura said work systems must evolve to adapt to the realities faced by women.

She noted that greater inclusivity has improved the representation of women in management positions, while highlighting the need for policies that support caring responsibilities, maternity needs and flexible working arrangements.

Tukura also called for an “all hands on deck” approach to inclusion, insisting that women in IDP camps and other vulnerable groups still possess valuable skills that can contribute to economic growth.

Forum participants shared views on the importance of designing inclusive recruitment policies that take into account people with disabilities and employee well-being.

Organizers said Kano HR Fusion aims to bridge the gap between workforce strategy and inclusive hiring to ensure Kano’s expanding service economy benefits from the full spectrum of available talent.