At VOW confab, experts harp on women’s inclusion

To advance conversations on women’s political participation, leadership and governance inclusion, stakeholders have called for support of grassroot women who are backbone of communities in the country. They also stressed on the need for a synergy from diverse women across the six geo-political zones which is key to amplifying their voices, achieving national development and sustainability.

This call was made at the 8th Voice of Women (VOW) Conference and Awards, with the theme, achieving women’s inclusion for a sustainable Nigeria, which held in Abuja.

In her opening remarks, Chairperson of the VOW2024 Planning Committee, Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, emphasised that the empowerment of grassroots women is central to achieving a more inclusive and sustainable Nigeria. She urged the nation to recognise the immense contributions of these women. “Our discussions are about actionable strategies to enhance women’s representation in leadership roles. The inclusion of grassroots women is key to driving policies that reflect the needs of all Nigerians.”

Delivering her keynote address, Minister of State for Labour and Employment, NkeirukaOnyejeocha noted that to achieve 35 percent affirmative action and additional seats in the legislature will be impossible without the impact of rural women across the geo-political zones. She said that in her 16-year life in public service, rural women played a huge role.

“My first election was won with just widows and older people. My education in the university or having a master’s degree did not change who I was whenever I am with them, and when the stakeholders said they will not vote me, they will say ‘don’t worry, we will go to the field’. So, I always emphasise the key role of women in nation-building.

Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Hadiza Akpoti-Uduaghan highlighted the significant challenges that Nigerian women encounter, stressing the importance of unity, leadership, and the need to address critical issues. While Senator representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ireti Kingibe, stressed that being a woman in the National Assembly is quite challenging, as a significant part of her focus has shifted to lobbying for action.

UN Women Country Representative in Nigeria, Beatrice Eyong, in a statement delivered by Patience Ekeoba, National Programme Officer for UN Women Nigeria, called attention to the structural barriers that prevent women from reaching leadership roles despite their undeniable competence and potential. “Grassroots women are the backbone of our communities. Their participation in governance and leadership is not only crucial but long overdue,” Eyong noted.

Chairperson, Council of Wives of Traditional Rulers in FCT, Mrs. Hauwa Ibrahim Adamu lamented on the low participation of women in political authorities, mostly dominated by men and cried out to men in political powers to listen to women’s messages on inclusion in policy making.

CEO of Women Radio 91.7 FM and the convener of the event, Toun Okewale Sonaiya, made a passionate plea for increased political will to pass the 74 extra seats Bill currently before the 10th National Assembly. This bill aims to secure more seats for women in governance, a critical step toward bridging the gender gap in Nigeria’s leadership.
“We need President Bola Tinubu to use his voice and influence to push for this bill’s passage. Nigerian women deserve a seat at the table, and we must be deliberate in creating that space for them,” Sonaiya said.

In a panel session focused on The Kwara model – a desirable Nigerian model, moderated by Managing Director, TVC Entertainment, Morayo Afolabi-Brown, it analysed the impact of women’s role in public office in the state.

Speaking on the panel, a member of the Kwara state house of Assembly, RukayyatMotunrayo Shittu noted that being one of the five female members in the House has made their voices heard and she made sure to constantly engage her constituents. Commissioner for communications in the state, Mrs. Bola Olukoju acknowledged the governor’s mandate of having 50-50 representation in his government which clearly seeks to inclusion in the state.

“The grassroots are the people who make things happen at the community level. In Kwara State, we take women very seriously in all initiatives because we recognise the many positive benefits of empowering women.”

Commission for Environment, Hajia Nafisat Musa Buge who is also the youngest commissioner in Nigeria, she said, “For us in Kwara, the priority is women and the youth. I used to work in the Ministry of Youth Development before I got redeployed to the ministry of Environment and Forestry in Kwara State. Anyone who knew about Kwara before now, and decides to visit Kwara again will definitely see the difference in the environment.”
Executive Chairman, Internal revenue Service, Shade Omoniyi noted that as the first female to head the Kwara state Internal Revenue service, she is reminded of her responsibility to do a lot better than the man as that is the only way to get recognition.

While Commissioner for Education, Kwara state, Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo Kawu also stressed that the governor is particular about women’s leadership in the state adding, “I am a fourth time commissioner; I started in the Ministry of Science and Technology, but the third time, I was nominated for my ministry. I’m sure working with us and seeing the results has given him reasons to retain women in his cabinet.”

Highlight of the conference was VOW HeforShe awards given to former governor, Ekiti state, Dr Kayode Fayemi; Kwara state governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq; Ekiti State Governor, Abiodun Oyebanji; Director, MacArthur Foundation, Dr. Kole Shettima and Convener of Africa Women Summit, Meshack-Hart KaladaBelema. This is was for their commitment and support to the empowerment and inclusion of women which inspires positive change and progress towards a more gender-balanced Nigeria.