Brussels, January 2021 – Women Political Leaders is honoured to welcome Economic and Public Policy Expert Dr. Obiageli “Oby” Ezekwesili, Senior Economic Adviser to the Africa Economic Development Policy Initiative (AEDPI), as a new member of the WPL Board. Her proven experience in the economic and financial sectors, as well as her pioneering work against corruption, and for increased transparency in economic activities, will undoubtedly complement the areas of expertise already represented by the WPL Board’s other esteemed members.
“The extensive experience of Oby Ezekwesili brings to the WPL Board a strong economic focus that is particularly important at this pivotal moment, as the world seeks new ways to build back better. I am certain that Oby will join the WPL Board’s other esteemed members in reaffirming the need to invest in women and girls for the betterment of society”, says Silvana Koch-Mehrin, President & Founder of WPL.
“I am honored to be invited to join the Board of WPL, an organization which does super impactful work that advances the cause of women and leadership globally.” affirmed Oby Ezekwesili when accepting the invitation from the WPL Board.
A vital part of the WPL mission, the Board comprises high-level female leaders and politicians who draw on their deep experience to provide guidance for all WPL activities.
Beyond her vast knowledge of economic policy and political advocacy, Oby Ezekwesili brings to the WPL Board a distinguished career and reputation in both the private and public sectors. Having served twice as Minister during the administration of Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo (1999-2007), she also served as World Bank Vice President for the Africa region Washington, DC. In 2012, she became Senior Economic Advisor at the Open Society Foundation (New York), aiming to build vibrant and tolerant societies with democratically accountable governments.
Oby Ezekwesili’s contribution as co-founder of #BringBackOurGirls movement, together with her commitment in leading a comprehensive educational reform as Nigeria’s Minister of Education (2006-2007), showcase her unceasing dedication in building equitable societies where fair access to education is the basis for both a flourishing economy and a free democracy.
As a 2018 nominee for the Nobel Peace Prize, and as a candidate for President of Nigeria in 2019, her understanding of the issues faced by women and girls around the world will greatly enrich WPL’s essential drive to advance equality between women and men.
For questions and requests for interviews, please contact the WPL Press Office at [email protected], or call +39 346 239 7076 / +32 2 733 13 44.
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About WPL
Women Political Leaders (WPL) is the global network of female politicians. The mission of WPL is to increase both the number and the influence of women in political leadership positions. WPL members are women in political office – Presidents, Prime Ministers, Cabinet Ministers, Members of Parliaments, Mayors. Membership is free and members are honoured by their participation.
WPL relies on the commitment of leading women politicians worldwide for its thriving communities who, in the spirit of the mission of WPL, advance society. WPL strives in all its activities to demonstrate the impact of more women in political leadership, for the global better. More information on the activities of WPL is available at https://www.womenpoliticalleaders.org
